Denver's Dew: Altitude Air Crashing Vaseline Youth?

By Franklin Everett Shaw

November 10, 2025

The mirror doesn’t lie, but it can be misleading. Especially if you’ve just moved to Denver. Those fine lines and that persistent dryness? It might not be just aging; it could be the “altitude air” wreaking havoc on your skin. And while Vaseline is a skincare staple for many, its effectiveness in Denver’s unique climate is… complicated.

Vaseline, or petrolatum, is an occlusive. It works by creating a physical barrier on the skin, preventing water from escaping. This makes it great for locking in moisture, but it doesn’t actually add any moisture. In Denver, that’s a problem.

Denver’s high altitude (the “Mile High City,” remember?) means lower air pressure. This leads to increased transepidermal water loss (TEWL) – water evaporating from your skin. The dry air exacerbates this, sucking moisture away like a thirsty vampire. Vaseline can trap what little moisture is there, but if your skin is already dehydrated, it’s like locking the barn door after the horse has bolted.

Think of it like this: you’re trying to hydrate a sponge. Vaseline is like wrapping the dry sponge in plastic wrap. It prevents further drying, but it doesn’t rehydrate the sponge. You need to add water first.

So, what’s a Denverite to do? We need to focus on a three-pronged approach: hydration, humectants, and occlusion.

First, hydration. Drink plenty of water. Seriously. Carry a water bottle and sip throughout the day. This is the most basic, yet often overlooked, step. Aim for at least eight glasses a day, and more if you’re active.

Next, humectants. These are ingredients that attract moisture from the air and draw it into your skin. Hyaluronic acid is a popular choice, but glycerin and honey are also effective. Apply a humectant-rich serum or moisturizer to damp skin after showering or cleansing. This helps to pull in and trap moisture.

Here’s a crucial point: in Denver’s dry climate, humectants can sometimes pull moisture from your skin if there isn’t enough humidity in the air. To combat this, layer your humectant with an emollient or occlusive.

Emollients are ingredients that soften and smooth the skin by filling in the gaps between skin cells. Examples include shea butter, ceramides, and squalane. They help to create a smoother surface and improve the skin’s barrier function.

Finally, occlusion. This is where Vaseline can come in, but it shouldn’t be the only player. After applying your humectant and emollient, a thin layer of Vaseline can help to seal everything in. Think of it as the final layer of defense against the altitude air.

However, consider alternatives to Vaseline. Look for occlusives that also offer other benefits. For example, a balm containing beeswax and plant oils can provide occlusion while also nourishing the skin with vitamins and antioxidants.

Here’s a step-by-step guide to building a Denver-proof skincare routine:

Cleanse: Use a gentle, hydrating cleanser that doesn’t strip your skin of its natural oils. Avoid harsh soaps or sulfates.
Hydrate: Apply a hydrating toner or essence to damp skin. Look for ingredients like aloe vera or rosewater.
Humectant: Apply a hyaluronic acid serum or other humectant-rich product.
Emollient: Apply a moisturizer containing ceramides, shea butter, or squalane.
Occlusive: Seal everything in with a thin layer of Vaseline or a balm containing beeswax and plant oils.
Sunscreen: This is non-negotiable, especially in Denver. The higher altitude means you’re closer to the sun, and the dry air can make your skin more susceptible to sun damage. Use a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher every day, even on cloudy days.

Common Mistakes and Pitfalls:

Over-exfoliating: Exfoliating too often can strip your skin of its natural oils and make it even more vulnerable to dehydration. Limit exfoliation to once or twice a week.
Using harsh products: Avoid products containing alcohol, fragrances, or other irritants. These can further dry out your skin.
Not drinking enough water: This is the most common mistake. Make a conscious effort to drink more water throughout the day.
Relying solely on Vaseline: As we’ve discussed, Vaseline is not a magic bullet. It needs to be part of a comprehensive skincare routine.
Ignoring sun protection: Sunscreen is essential in Denver. Don’t skip it!

Real-World Application:

Let’s say you’re a Denver resident who works outdoors. You’re constantly exposed to the sun and dry air. Your skin is feeling tight, dry, and itchy.

Here’s how you can apply the principles we’ve discussed:

Start your day with a hydrating cleanser and toner.
Apply a hyaluronic acid serum followed by a moisturizer containing ceramides and shea butter.
Apply a generous layer of broad-spectrum sunscreen.
Throughout the day, reapply sunscreen every two hours.
Keep a water bottle with you and sip on it constantly.
In the evening, repeat your skincare routine, but add a thin layer of Vaseline or a balm containing beeswax and plant oils as the final step.

Addressing Fine Lines and Sun Damage:

The dry air and increased sun exposure in Denver can accelerate the signs of aging, including fine lines and wrinkles. In addition to the hydrating routine outlined above, consider incorporating these ingredients into your skincare regimen:

Retinoids: These are vitamin A derivatives that can help to reduce fine lines and wrinkles, improve skin texture, and even out skin tone. Start with a low concentration and gradually increase as tolerated.
Vitamin C: This is a powerful antioxidant that can help to protect your skin from sun damage and boost collagen production.
Peptides: These are amino acids that can help to stimulate collagen production and improve skin elasticity.

Remember to introduce new products gradually and patch test before applying them to your entire face.

Living in Denver offers incredible opportunities for outdoor adventures, but it also presents unique challenges for your skin. By understanding the science behind altitude’s effects on skin moisture and adopting a tailored skincare routine, you can combat dehydration, fine lines, and sun damage, and keep your skin looking healthy and radiant, even in the “altitude air.” Don’t just cover the problem; solve it.