Winter Skincare: Protecting Your Skin in Colorado's Dry Climate

Living in Colorado means enjoying 300 days of sunshine, stunning mountain views, and incredibly dry air — especially during winter. While we love our Colorado lifestyle, our skin often pays the price. At Nurture Wellness & Aesthetics, we see firsthand how Denver's dry winter climate affects our patients' skin, and we're here to help you navigate the season with a glowing, healthy complexion.

Why Colorado Winters Are Tough on Skin

Denver sits at 5,280 feet above sea level, and our Cherry Creek location experiences humidity levels that can drop below 20% during winter months. This dry air, combined with cold temperatures, indoor heating, and increased UV exposure at altitude, creates a perfect storm for dehydrated, irritated skin. Common winter skin concerns include flaking, tightness, redness, increased sensitivity, and breakouts caused by a compromised moisture barrier.

Upgrade Your Moisturizer

If you use a lightweight moisturizer during summer, winter is the time to switch to a richer formula. Look for products containing hyaluronic acid (which draws moisture into the skin), ceramides (which repair the moisture barrier), and niacinamide (which reduces inflammation and strengthens the skin). Apply moisturizer to slightly damp skin to lock in hydration.

Never Skip Sunscreen

UV exposure is actually more intense at Denver's altitude, and snow reflects up to 80% of UV rays. A broad-spectrum SPF 30 or higher is non-negotiable year-round. Choose a formula that also provides hydration — many modern sunscreens double as moisturizers.

Be Gentle with Exfoliation

While exfoliation is important for removing dead skin cells, over-exfoliating during winter can strip your already-stressed moisture barrier. Scale back to 1-2 times per week and opt for gentle chemical exfoliants over harsh physical scrubs. If you're using retinoids, consider reducing frequency during the driest months or buffering with moisturizer.

Invest in a Humidifier

Indoor heating dramatically reduces humidity in your home. Running a humidifier in your bedroom while you sleep can make a noticeable difference in your skin's hydration levels. Aim for indoor humidity between 40-50%.

Professional Treatments for Winter Skin

Winter is actually an ideal time for many professional treatments. With less sun exposure, treatments like CO2 laser resurfacing, chemical peels, and microneedling carry a lower risk of post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation. Our ZO 3 Step Peel and Red Carpet Facial are particularly popular during the colder months.

The ZO Skincare Difference

At Nurture Wellness & Aesthetics, our providers are trained by Dr. Zein Obagi, one of the world's leading dermatologists. The customized ZO regimens we curate work at the cellular level, treating conditions like acne, melasma, rosacea, and hyperpigmentation while often delivering laser-like results. A proper medical-grade skincare routine is the foundation of healthy skin in any climate.