Living and treating clients at high altitudes presents challenges to skin care professionals for so many reasons. For example, Colorado’s extreme weather can be particularly unforgiving on skin, and those with an affinity for spending time outdoors are constantly putting their skin in harsh conditions. The first thing visitors will often say is how dry their skin is and the effects the lack of oxygen is having on their overall feeling of wellbeing while they adjust to the altitude.

How does skin respond to more extreme environments? For one thing, the extreme temperatures and increased ultraviolet exposure causes damage to the acid mantle. Because the air at higher altitudes is dry, skin is exposed to significantly less humidity, which causes cells to become dehydrated. Transepidermal water loss (TEWL) compromises the barrier function and with the lack of moisture, skin feels dry and itchy and looks weathered in appearance. In turn, dry skin cells can build up and absorb oil in the pores which can cause mild to severe acne.