Why Is Colorado Winter Skin So Dry?
Here are the main culprits of why your skin feels so dry in the Winter:
- Altitude: The higher you go, the thinner the air, and that means less moisture in the air for your skin to absorb.
- Low Humidity: Colorado winters can be incredibly dry, with humidity levels often dipping into the single digits. That means your skin’s natural moisture just evaporates into thin air.
- Cold Winds: Those chilly gusts of wind might be refreshing for your face, but they’re also stripping your skin of all its hydration.
- Indoor Heating: Sure, it’s cozy inside, but those heaters suck out moisture from the air, making your skin even drier.
- Sun Exposure: Even in winter, the sun’s UV rays are strong here—especially at high altitudes. So, while you’re out skiing or walking around, your skin’s still taking a hit.
There are simple ways to remedy this and you can keep your skin soft and hydrated all season long.
1. Upgrade Your Moisturizer- Come into Skin Care with Dory and we will figure your best personal plan for hydrated skin with high quality active products
Your lightweight summer moisturizer? It’s not gonna cut it in winter. You need something thicker and richer to help lock in moisture. Look for creams or ointments that have ingredients like:
- Shea Butter: It’s like a big hug for your skin, locking in moisture and giving it that smooth, hydrated feel.
- Ceramides: These little guys help repair your skin’s moisture barrier so it doesn’t lose hydration.
- Hyaluronic Acid: It’s a moisture magnet. If you haven’t tried it yet, you need to—this stuff pulls water into your skin and holds it there.
- Glycerin: It’s a great hydrator and helps keep your skin feeling soft without being greasy.
SCwD tip: Apply your moisturizer when your skin is still damp (right after showering or washing your face) to really lock that hydration in. Sometimes I even layer my moisturizers.
2. Add a Humidifier to Your Night Routine
If you live in Colorado, chances are your home feels like a desert, thanks to indoor heating. Get yourself a humidifier. It’s a simple fix that can make a huge difference. Run it while you sleep, and you’ll wake up with skin that feels a lot less like parched.
3. Keep Showers Short and Sweet
I know, There’s nothing better than a hot shower when it’s freezing outside. But trust me: long, hot showers actually strip your skin of its natural oils, making things worse. Aim for lukewarm water (not freezing, not scalding) and keep your showers to 10-15 minutes. After you’re out, gently pat your skin dry with a towel.
4. Sunscreen is STILL a Must
Sunscreen is just as important now as it is in the summer. At higher altitudes, the sun’s UV rays are stronger, and the snow reflects those rays right back at your skin. So, even on overcast days, you need to apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen with at least SPF 30. Your skin will thank you! Skin Care with Dory offers physical sunscreens in tinted and non tinted.
5. Hydrate from the Inside Out
We all know drinking water is key to keeping skin hydrated, but don’t forget that what you eat matters, too. Foods rich in omega-3s (like salmon, flaxseeds, and walnuts) and antioxidants (like berries and leafy greens) can help nourish your skin from the inside. So, stock up on those healthy fats and antioxidants to keep your skin glowing. Adding oils to your smoothie . I suggest to my clients Recovery Oil protocol- which is Sea Buckthorn oil and has multple benefits.
6. Add Oils and Serums to Your Routine
If your skin is feeling extra thirsty, try adding a nourishing oil or serum into your routine. Look for oils like jojoba, argan, or squalane—they’re all super hydrating without feeling greasy. I like to apply a serum right before bed, after moisturizing, to give my skin an extra boost overnight.
7. Bundle Up (Your Skin Will Thank You)
Colorado winter winds are no joke, so protecting your skin from the elements is a must. A cozy scarf, face mask, and gloves are your best friends when you’re braving the outdoors. And go for natural fabrics like wool—they keep you warm without suffocating your skin. This can be quite fashionable too:)
8. Eat Your Vitamins
Winter skin needs extra love, and the best way to show your skin you care is by feeding it from the inside. Vitamins A, C, and E are especially great for skin health. Vitamin A helps with cell turnover (goodbye, dry patches), Vitamin C promotes collagen production, and Vitamin E helps protect your skin from UV damage. So, load up on sweet potatoes, citrus fruits, almonds, and spinach!
Wrapping It Up
Yes, Colorado winters can be tough on your skin, but with the right care and a little extra effort, you can keep your skin glowing and hydrated through it all. It’s all about being proactive—moisturize, hydrate, protect, and stay consistent. Your skin will thank you for it!
So, tell me—how do you tackle dry winter skin? My dog LOVES the cold- so you can find me on a brightly lit very cold slope somedays.
With Love,
Dory
Stay hydrated, stay glowing, and stay cozy!