Santa Fe Skin: Altitude Water Drying Lasers Fast?
By Franklin Everett ShawThe air here in Santa Fe isn’t just thin; it’s thirsty. You might not feel it immediately, but the combination of high altitude, surprisingly hard water, and the popularity of cosmetic laser treatments can leave your skin feeling like the desert landscape surrounding us – parched and pleading for moisture. But don’t despair! This isn’t a problem without solutions.
Santa Fe’s unique environment demands a unique approach to skincare. We need to go beyond generic advice and delve into the specifics of what works here.
Let’s start with the altitude. At over 7,000 feet, Santa Fe has significantly lower air pressure than coastal cities. This means water evaporates from your skin much faster.
Hard water is another culprit. Santa Fe’s water supply, while generally safe, contains high levels of minerals like calcium and magnesium. These minerals can interfere with the effectiveness of soaps and cleansers, leaving a residue that further dries out your skin.
Finally, the popularity of cosmetic laser treatments in Santa Fe, while offering benefits like skin rejuvenation, can also strip the skin of its natural oils and disrupt its barrier function, leading to increased dryness and sensitivity.
So, what can you do? First, let’s talk about finding the right dermatologist.
Dr. Mary Lupo at the Santa Fe Skin Institute is known for her expertise in post-laser skincare. She understands the specific challenges faced by patients in high-altitude environments and can recommend personalized treatment plans to restore hydration and protect the skin barrier. Another option is Dr. Winton at Winton Skin, who focuses on gentle, hydrating treatments.
When choosing a dermatologist, specifically ask about their experience with post-laser care in high-altitude climates. Don’t be afraid to ask about specific products or ingredients they recommend.
Now, let’s move on to skincare products. Look for products specifically formulated for dry or sensitive skin.
Avoid harsh cleansers that contain sulfates, which can strip the skin of its natural oils. Instead, opt for gentle, hydrating cleansers like Cetaphil Gentle Skin Cleanser or CeraVe Hydrating Facial Cleanser, both readily available at local pharmacies like Walgreens and CVS.
Moisturizers are your best friend. Look for ingredients like hyaluronic acid, which attracts and retains moisture, and ceramides, which help to repair the skin barrier.
- Hyaluronic Acid: A humectant that draws moisture from the air into the skin.
- Ceramides: Lipids that help to restore the skin’s natural barrier function.
- Glycerin: Another humectant that helps to hydrate the skin.
- Shea Butter: A rich emollient that helps to soften and moisturize the skin.
A great option is the La Roche-Posay Toleriane Double Repair Face Moisturizer UV SPF 30. It contains ceramides, niacinamide, and prebiotic thermal water to hydrate, soothe, and protect the skin. You can find it at Ulta Beauty in Santa Fe.
Don’t forget sunscreen! The sun’s rays are stronger at higher altitudes, so it’s essential to protect your skin from sun damage. Look for a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher. EltaMD UV Clear Broad-Spectrum SPF 46 is a popular choice among dermatologists and is available at many local skincare clinics.
Now, let’s explore some DIY hydration hacks using readily available New Mexican resources.
Aloe vera is a natural humectant and anti-inflammatory agent. You can find fresh aloe leaves at many local grocery stores, including Trader Joe’s. Simply cut open a leaf and apply the gel directly to your skin.
Local honey is another excellent ingredient for DIY skincare. It has antibacterial and humectant properties. You can find local honey at the Santa Fe Farmers’ Market or at specialty food stores like La Montanita Co-op Food Market. Mix a tablespoon of honey with a teaspoon of olive oil and apply it to your skin as a mask. Leave it on for 15-20 minutes, then rinse with warm water.
Here’s a simple DIY hydrating face mask recipe:
- Mix 1 tablespoon of local honey with 1 tablespoon of plain yogurt.
- Add 1 teaspoon of aloe vera gel.
- Apply the mixture to your face and neck.
- Leave it on for 15-20 minutes.
- Rinse with warm water.
One common mistake people make is not drinking enough water. Staying hydrated from the inside out is crucial for maintaining healthy skin. Aim to drink at least eight glasses of water a day.
Another pitfall is over-exfoliating. While exfoliation can help to remove dead skin cells, overdoing it can damage the skin barrier and lead to increased dryness. Limit exfoliation to once or twice a week.
Finally, be mindful of the products you use in the shower. Hot water and harsh soaps can strip the skin of its natural oils. Use lukewarm water and a gentle, moisturizing body wash.
Consider installing a shower filter to help remove some of the minerals from the hard water. You can find shower filters at local hardware stores like Lowe’s or Home Depot.
Remember, consistency is key. It takes time to see results, so be patient and stick with your skincare routine.
Don’t be afraid to experiment with different products and ingredients to find what works best for your skin. What works for one person may not work for another.
If you’re struggling with extremely dry skin, don’t hesitate to seek professional help. A dermatologist can help you to identify the underlying cause of your dryness and recommend a personalized treatment plan.
Living in Santa Fe presents unique challenges to skincare, but with the right knowledge and approach, you can achieve healthy, hydrated skin. Embrace the local resources, consult with local experts, and tailor your routine to the specific demands of this high-altitude, hard-water environment. Your skin will thank you for it.