Flagstaff Fitness: Is Altitude Air Stealing Lip Balm?
By Franklin Everett ShawThe sting of chapped lips in Flagstaff, Arizona isn’t just an occasional annoyance; it’s practically a local badge of honor. But why does this high-altitude haven seem to wage war on our pouts? It’s more than just a feeling; it’s a scientifically explainable phenomenon, and understanding it is the first step to winning the battle for hydrated lips.
Flagstaff sits at a staggering 6,909 feet above sea level. This elevation drastically alters the air we breathe, and consequently, the moisture levels our bodies experience.
The air at higher altitudes is thinner. This means there are fewer air molecules per unit volume, including water vapor.
Think of it like this: imagine a crowded room versus an empty one. The crowded room (lower altitude) can hold more people (water vapor), while the empty room (Flagstaff) has limited capacity.
This lower humidity directly impacts your skin, especially the delicate skin on your lips. Lips lack oil glands, making them particularly vulnerable to drying out.
The reduced moisture in the air pulls moisture from your lips, leading to that familiar tight, cracked feeling. It’s a constant uphill battle against dehydration.
But the altitude isn’t the only culprit. Flagstaff experiences significant temperature fluctuations, especially between day and night.
These temperature swings further exacerbate dryness. Cold air holds less moisture than warm air, so as temperatures drop, the air becomes even drier, drawing more moisture from your lips.
The sun’s intensity is also amplified at higher altitudes. There’s less atmosphere to filter out harmful UV rays, which can damage the skin on your lips and accelerate moisture loss.
So, what can a Flagstaff resident do to combat this constant assault on their lips? The answer lies in a multi-pronged approach, focusing on both prevention and treatment.
First, let’s talk about lip balm. Not all lip balms are created equal.
Many commercially available lip balms contain ingredients that can actually worsen dryness in the long run. Ingredients like camphor, menthol, and salicylic acid, while providing a temporary cooling sensation, can irritate and dry out the lips.
Instead, look for lip balms with occlusive ingredients. These create a physical barrier on the lips, preventing moisture from escaping.
- Beeswax is a classic occlusive ingredient.
- Shea butter is another excellent choice, offering both occlusive and emollient properties.
- Petroleum jelly (Vaseline) is a highly effective occlusive, though some people prefer to avoid it.
- Lanolin is a natural wax derived from sheep’s wool, known for its moisturizing and protective qualities.
Emollients, on the other hand, soften and soothe the skin. Look for ingredients like:
- Jojoba oil, which closely mimics the skin’s natural sebum.
- Coconut oil, known for its moisturizing and antimicrobial properties.
- Avocado oil, rich in vitamins and fatty acids.
Humectants draw moisture from the air and bind it to the skin. However, in Flagstaff’s dry climate, humectants can sometimes draw moisture from deeper layers of the skin if there isn’t enough ambient humidity.
Hyaluronic acid is a powerful humectant, but it’s best used in conjunction with occlusive ingredients to prevent moisture loss.
The key is consistent application. Don’t wait until your lips feel dry to apply lip balm.
Make it a habit to apply lip balm several times a day, especially before going outside and before bed. Consider keeping a lip balm in your pocket, in your car, and on your nightstand.
Sun protection is also crucial. Choose a lip balm with an SPF of at least 30.
Reapply frequently, especially if you’re spending time outdoors. The sun in Flagstaff is no joke.
Another often-overlooked factor is mouth breathing. Many people unconsciously breathe through their mouths, especially during sleep.
This can significantly exacerbate lip dryness, as the constant flow of air over the lips draws out moisture. This is especially true during Flagstaff’s colder months when the air is even drier.
If you suspect you’re a mouth breather, consider these strategies:
- Address any nasal congestion. Allergies or a deviated septum can force you to breathe through your mouth. Consult with a doctor to address these issues.
- Use a humidifier in your bedroom. Adding moisture to the air can help prevent your lips from drying out overnight.
- Consider using nasal strips to open up your nasal passages. These can help you breathe more easily through your nose.
Dehydration plays a significant role in lip dryness. Make sure you’re drinking plenty of water throughout the day.
The dry air in Flagstaff can make it difficult to stay adequately hydrated. Carry a water bottle with you and sip on it regularly.
Avoid excessive consumption of dehydrating beverages like coffee and alcohol. These can further contribute to lip dryness.
Diet can also play a role. Ensure you’re consuming enough healthy fats, which are essential for maintaining skin hydration.
Foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids, such as salmon, avocados, and nuts, can help improve skin health and reduce dryness.
Avoid licking your lips. It might seem counterintuitive, but licking your lips actually makes them drier.
Saliva contains enzymes that break down food, and these enzymes can also irritate and dry out the skin on your lips.
Finally, consider using a lip scrub occasionally to remove dead skin cells. This can help your lip balm penetrate more effectively.
However, be gentle. Over-exfoliating can damage the delicate skin on your lips.
A simple homemade lip scrub can be made with sugar and honey. Gently massage the scrub onto your lips in a circular motion, then rinse with warm water.
Living in Flagstaff means adapting to a unique environment. By understanding the factors that contribute to lip dryness and implementing these strategies, you can keep your lips healthy and hydrated, even in the high-altitude desert. It’s a commitment, but one that pays off in comfort and confidence.