**Santa Fe Soil: Altitude Air Drying Skin Oils?**
By Franklin Everett ShawThe biting wind whips through the arroyos, carrying dust devils and a relentless dryness that sucks the moisture right out of your skin. You step out of your adobe home, and immediately feel the familiar tightness around your eyes and the sandpaper texture of your hands. Living in Santa Fe, New Mexico, is a unique experience, a blend of stunning landscapes and vibrant culture, but it comes with a price: intensely dry air exacerbated by high altitude. Forget those generic lotions promising hydration; they simply don’t cut it here. It’s time to embrace the power of face and body oils, but not just any oil will do.
Choosing the right oil is paramount. Santa Fe’s climate demands oils that are both deeply moisturizing and readily absorbed, avoiding that greasy feeling that’s only amplified by the ever-present dust. Forget heavy, comedogenic oils like coconut oil, which can clog pores and lead to breakouts, especially in the dry, dusty environment. Instead, look for oils rich in linoleic acid, which helps to strengthen the skin’s barrier and prevent moisture loss.
Here are a few excellent choices for Santa Feans:
Argan Oil: This “liquid gold” from Morocco is a fantastic all-arounder. It’s relatively lightweight, absorbs quickly, and is packed with antioxidants and essential fatty acids. Look for 100% pure argan oil, preferably cold-pressed, to ensure you’re getting the highest quality.
Jojoba Oil: Technically a wax ester, jojoba oil closely mimics the skin’s natural sebum, making it incredibly effective at moisturizing without clogging pores. It’s also very stable, meaning it won’t go rancid quickly, a definite plus in Santa Fe’s fluctuating temperatures.
Rosehip Seed Oil: This oil is a powerhouse for repairing sun damage and reducing the appearance of scars and fine lines, all common concerns in sunny Santa Fe. It’s rich in vitamin A and C, which promote collagen production and brighten the skin. Be aware that it can be slightly more potent, so start with a small amount and gradually increase as needed.
Squalane Oil: Derived from olives or sugarcane, squalane is an incredibly lightweight and non-comedogenic oil that’s perfect for all skin types, even oily or acne-prone. It absorbs almost instantly, leaving skin feeling soft and supple without any greasy residue.
Now that you’ve chosen your oil, let’s talk application. Simply slathering it on won’t deliver the best results. The key is to apply it to damp skin, ideally right after showering or bathing. This helps to trap moisture and allows the oil to penetrate more effectively.
Here’s a step-by-step guide:
Shower or bathe: Use a gentle, sulfate-free cleanser to avoid stripping your skin of its natural oils.
Pat skin dry: Leave your skin slightly damp. Don’t rub vigorously with the towel.
Apply oil: Dispense a few drops of oil into your palm and rub your hands together to warm it up. Gently massage the oil into your skin using upward, circular motions. Focus on areas that are particularly dry, such as elbows, knees, and hands.
Wait a few minutes: Allow the oil to fully absorb before getting dressed.
For your face, consider incorporating oil into your nighttime routine. After cleansing and toning, apply a few drops of oil to your face and neck, gently massaging it in. You can also add a drop or two to your moisturizer for an extra boost of hydration.
A common mistake is using too much oil. Start with a small amount and gradually increase as needed. You should aim for a dewy, hydrated look, not an oily sheen. If your skin feels greasy, you’ve likely used too much.
Another pitfall is neglecting exfoliation. Dead skin cells can prevent oil from penetrating properly. Exfoliate your skin gently once or twice a week to remove dead skin cells and allow the oil to work its magic. A simple sugar scrub or a gentle exfoliating brush can do the trick.
But topical application is only half the battle. True hydration comes from within. Living in Santa Fe requires a conscious effort to stay hydrated, both inside and out.
Here are some lifestyle adjustments to consider:
Drink plenty of water: Aim for at least eight glasses of water a day. Carry a reusable water bottle with you and sip on it throughout the day.
Invest in a humidifier: A humidifier can help to add moisture to the air, especially during the dry winter months. Place one in your bedroom to help keep your skin hydrated while you sleep.
Eat hydrating foods: Incorporate fruits and vegetables with high water content into your diet, such as watermelon, cucumber, and spinach.
Avoid long, hot showers: While a hot shower may feel good, it can actually strip your skin of its natural oils. Opt for shorter, lukewarm showers instead.
Protect your skin from the sun: Sun exposure can further dehydrate your skin. Wear sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher every day, even on cloudy days.
Living in Santa Fe is a unique and rewarding experience, but it requires a proactive approach to skincare. By choosing the right oils, applying them correctly, and making lifestyle adjustments to stay hydrated, you can combat the dryness and keep your skin looking and feeling its best. Don’t just survive the Santa Fe dryness; thrive in it, with healthy, radiant skin. Remember, consistency is key. Make oil application a regular part of your routine, and you’ll see a noticeable difference in the health and hydration of your skin.