Living in Colorado presents unique challenges for your skin. With high altitude, low humidity and abundant sunshine, residents face specific skin care concerns that differ from other parts of the country.
Dr. Whitney High, a Dermatologist and Dermatopathologist at CU Medicine Dermatology - Montview Blvd (CU Medicine Building) and long-term faculty member of the University of Colorado School of Medicine, shares essential advice for maintaining healthy skin in Colorado's distinctive environment.
Altitude Effects: Denver's Sunshine Intensity
Colorado's elevation significantly impacts sun exposure and skin health. "The sun’s ultraviolet light intensity increases 4% per thousand feet of elevation," Dr. High notes. This translates to approximately 20% more intense sunshine in Denver compared to sea level locations of similar latitude.
When enjoying Colorado's beautiful outdoor activities, you're often simultaneously:
- Exposed to more intense UV radiation
- Sweating and losing water more quickly due to low humidity
Winter Skin Care in Colorado: Combating Dryness
Winter brings challenges to Colorado residents:
- Forced air heating systems further reduce indoor humidity
- People often drink less water during colder months
- Hot showers, while tempting in cold weather, can strip the skin of natural oils
"While tempting, taking hot showers can actually dry out your skin even more because hot water removes your body's natural oils," explains Dr. High.
The Skin Cancer Connection
The combination of elevation and Colorado's famous 300 days of sunshine creates significant skin cancer risks. Dr. High reports that Colorado dermatologists diagnose higher rates of both melanoma and non-melanoma skin cancers compared to other regions.
Managing Inflammatory Skin Conditions in Colorado
skin needs more moisture.
Denver Dermatologist Recommendations for Healthy Skin in Colorado
1. Prioritize consistent moisturizing - The frequency of application matters more than the specific product you choose.
2. Stay hydrated year-round - Make a conscious effort to drink adequate water, especially during winter.
3. Take shorter showers at a lower temperature - Opt for shorter showers. You should not be uncomfortable in the water, but it does not need to be hot either.
4. Use sun protection daily - Colorado's elevation makes use of a broad-spectrum sunscreen even more critical than in other locations. Use SPF 30 or above when going outdoors, apply 30 minutes before going outside and reapply often.
5. Understand you can sunburn even on a cold day – With altitude increasing the sun’s ultraviolet intensity, and with reflection of the sun's rays off white snow, it is possible to get a “sunburn” while skiing or doing other activities in the wintertime.
6. Boost humidity - Consider using a humidifier in your home, particularly during winter months.
7. See a dermatologist annually - Skin cancer screenings are important, given the elevated risk in Colorado.
By understanding the unique challenges of Colorado's climate and following these expert recommendations from a Denver Dermatologist and Dermatopathologist, you can maintain healthier skin while enjoying all that Colorado's beautiful environment has to offer.
Schedule an appointment at CU Medicine Dermatology - Montview Blvd (CU Medicine Building) by clicking here.
