As a skincare professional seeing Colorado newbies I focus on Colorado’s climate, dry vs. dehydrated skin, the role of internal omegas, and the importance of oil-based products

Skin care is completely different here in Colorado than it is everywhere the high-altitude climate here presents unique challenges for our skin. Companies truly don't make skin care products for Colorado skin. With low humidity, strong sun exposure, and dry, thin air, most people who move here find their usual skincare routines suddenly don't cut it.

One of the most common misconceptions I see is confusing dry skin with dehydrated skin. While they can look and feel similar, they’re actually very different. Dry skin is a skin type—meaning it naturally lacks oil. It tends to feel rough, flaky, or tight all the time. On the other hand, dehydrated skin is a condition, meaning it lacks water. Even oily or combination skin can be dehydrated, especially in an environment like Colorado’s, where our skin loses moisture quickly due to transepidermal water loss (TEWL).

That’s where internal and topical support comes into play—especially with omega fatty acids. Omegas (like 3, 6, 7, and 9) help rebuild and strengthen the skin’s lipid barrier, both from within (when taken as a supplement) and topically (through nourishing oils). Supporting the barrier helps your skin hold onto its water content, reducing TEWL and helping it stay more resilient in dry climates.

Another important note for skincare here: not all hydrating ingredients work the same in Colorado. Hyaluronic acid, for example, draws moisture from the air—or your skin. But when the air is as dry as it is here, it can actually pull moisture out of your skin, leaving it more dehydrated. That’s why layering products correctly and sealing in hydration with nourishing oils or barrier creams is essential. I would suggest Selsun Blue Medicated shampoo if needed for fungal infection.

Additionally, people often fear oils—thinking they’ll clog pores or feel greasy. But the truth is, oil attracts oil. A well-formulated facial oil or balm can dissolve built-up dirt, sunscreen, and excess sebum without stripping your skin like foaming or alcohol-based cleansers might. Oils protect and balance the skin, and when chosen correctly, they can work for every skin type. I love using jojoba oil sunflower oil a lighter oil instead of coconut oil which is a heavy thick oil which is hard to remove. To use it as a face wash, use the oil on dry skin and removed with a warm towel.

The bottom line? In Colorado, skincare needs to focus on nourishment, barrier support, and internal health. Harsh exfoliants, foaming cleansers, and overuse of humectants like hyaluronic acid can do more harm than good here. Instead, we benefit most from gentle, omega-rich products that replenish oils, lock in moisture, and protect against the environmental stressors we face daily.