High Altitude Skin Care
High altitude strips moisture and exposes skin to intense UV, so layer hydration and apply SPF religiously.
- Double down on moisture. Start with a hydrating serum containing hyaluronic acid or glycerin. Follow with a heavier moisturizer than you'd normally use. The thin air will pull moisture from your skin faster than you realize.
- SPF becomes non-negotiable. UV intensity increases 4% for every 1000 feet of elevation. Apply SPF 30 minimum every two hours, even on cloudy days. The snow and ice reflect additional UV back at your face.
- Seal everything in. Use a facial oil or occlusive balm as your final step, especially at night. This creates a barrier against the dry mountain air that would otherwise evaporate your skincare layers overnight.