Vail's Vaseline: Altitude Sun Melting Summer Savings?
By Franklin Everett ShawThe Colorado sun, especially up in places like Vail, isn’t just about skiing and snowboarding. It’s a powerful force, amplified by the altitude, that can wreak havoc on your skin. And the dry air? Forget about it. But what if I told you that a simple, affordable product sitting in your bathroom cabinet could offer some relief?
Vaseline. Yes, plain old petroleum jelly.
Let’s dive into how this unassuming product can be a surprisingly useful tool for Colorado residents battling sunburn and dryness, especially at high altitudes. We’ll explore its benefits, limitations, and how to use it safely and effectively.
Vaseline isn’t sunscreen. Let’s get that straight right away. It doesn’t contain any SPF (Sun Protection Factor). Relying solely on Vaseline for sun protection in Vail, where the sun’s intensity is significantly higher due to the altitude and thinner atmosphere, is a recipe for a painful sunburn.
However, Vaseline can play a role after sun exposure. If you’ve already gotten a mild sunburn, Vaseline can help to soothe and moisturize the affected area. Sunburns damage the skin’s barrier, leading to moisture loss. Vaseline creates a protective barrier that helps to lock in moisture and prevent further dehydration.
Think of it as a sealant. It doesn’t heal the burn, but it helps your skin heal itself by providing a protective environment. Apply a thin layer of Vaseline to the sunburned area after a cool shower or bath. This will help to trap the moisture and keep the skin hydrated.
Now, let’s talk about dryness. Colorado’s high altitude and dry climate can severely dehydrate your skin. This is especially true in winter, when the air is even drier. Vaseline is an excellent occlusive moisturizer, meaning it forms a barrier on the skin’s surface that prevents water from evaporating.
This makes it particularly effective for treating dry, cracked skin on hands, feet, and lips. Before bed, apply a generous layer of Vaseline to your hands and feet, then cover them with cotton gloves and socks. You’ll wake up with noticeably softer skin.
For chapped lips, Vaseline can be a lifesaver. Apply a thin layer throughout the day, especially before heading outdoors. It will protect your lips from the harsh wind and dry air.
But here’s a crucial point: Vaseline is best used on already moisturized skin. It doesn’t add moisture; it prevents moisture loss. So, after showering or applying a hydrating lotion, seal it in with a layer of Vaseline.
There’s a common myth that Vaseline can attract the sun and worsen sunburn. This is largely untrue. Vaseline itself doesn’t attract sunlight. However, applying a thick layer of Vaseline before sun exposure can create a greasy film that might amplify the sun’s rays slightly, potentially increasing the risk of sunburn.
That’s why it’s crucial to use Vaseline after sun exposure, not before. And always, always use a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher when spending time outdoors in Colorado, especially at high altitudes.
Fair-skinned individuals in the Mountain Time Zone need to be particularly cautious about sun exposure. The thinner atmosphere and higher altitude mean that you’re exposed to more UV radiation than people at sea level.
If you have fair skin, you’re also more susceptible to sunburn. So, take extra precautions to protect your skin. Wear protective clothing, such as long sleeves, hats, and sunglasses. Seek shade during the peak hours of the day (10 am to 4 pm). And apply sunscreen liberally and frequently.
Here’s a step-by-step guide to using Vaseline effectively in Colorado:
Sunburn Relief: After a cool shower or bath, gently pat your skin dry. Apply a thin layer of Vaseline to the sunburned area. Repeat as needed to keep the skin moisturized.
Dry Skin Treatment: After showering or applying a hydrating lotion, apply a thin layer of Vaseline to your skin. Focus on areas that are prone to dryness, such as hands, feet, and elbows.
Chapped Lips: Apply a thin layer of Vaseline to your lips throughout the day, especially before heading outdoors.
Nighttime Moisture Boost: Before bed, apply a generous layer of Vaseline to your hands and feet, then cover them with cotton gloves and socks.
Common mistakes to avoid:
- Using Vaseline as a sunscreen. It’s not a substitute for sunscreen.
- Applying a thick layer of Vaseline before sun exposure. This can potentially amplify the sun’s rays.
- Using Vaseline on dirty or infected skin. This can trap bacteria and worsen the infection.
- Relying solely on Vaseline for severe dryness. If your skin is severely dry, consult a dermatologist.
Vaseline is a petroleum-based product, which some people may be concerned about. However, the Vaseline sold today is highly refined and purified, making it safe for most people to use.
If you have sensitive skin or are concerned about potential allergic reactions, test a small amount of Vaseline on a discreet area of your skin before applying it to larger areas.
In conclusion, Vaseline can be a valuable tool for Colorado residents battling sunburn and dryness, especially at high altitudes like Vail. It’s an affordable, readily available moisturizer that can help to soothe sunburned skin, prevent moisture loss, and protect against the harsh elements.
However, it’s crucial to remember that Vaseline is not a sunscreen and should not be used as a substitute for sunscreen. Always use a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher when spending time outdoors.
Used correctly, Vaseline can be a simple yet effective way to keep your skin healthy and hydrated in the challenging Colorado climate. It’s a practical, budget-friendly solution that can make a real difference in your skin’s comfort and appearance. So, embrace the power of this humble product and enjoy the Colorado sunshine responsibly.