What causes red, dry, scaley facial rash from cold, but only above 4,000 ft?

I never get a rash from cold weather at except at high elevations and only on neck and face. The rash goes away after a day at low elevations even in the cold. So I don't think it is Rosasea.


Thanks, SueWhat causes red, dry, scaley facial rash from cold, but only above 4,000 ft?
Think about what you're doing at higher elevations. Since you probably only go above 4000 ft when you're on vacation, and especially if you ski or such, it's likely that you're spending more time outside. If it's cold, dry, and windy outside that can damage your skin if without an underlying condition like rosasea. Also, it tends to be drier and windier at higher elevations, which would cause more damage to your skin than just cold alone. Potentially the lower air pressure could also contribute, but I think it's more likely a combination of the wind and dryness, as well as the probably increased exposure, that would cause your skin to turn red at higher elevations and not lower ones. The reason it's only on your face and neck is probably that these are typically the only areas of skin that aren't covered when it's cold out, and they are also some of the most sensitive skin.