## Santa Fe Spas: Altitude Air Cracking Summer Skin?
By Franklin Everett ShawThe desert sun beats down, relentless and unforgiving. It’s a beautiful day in Santa Fe, New Mexico, but your skin might be telling a different story. The high altitude and arid climate create a perfect storm for dryness, sun damage, and a host of other skin woes.
Santa Fe’s unique environment demands a specialized skincare approach. Forget generic lotions and sunscreens; you need a strategy tailored to this specific locale. This guide will navigate the challenges of Santa Fe’s summer climate and provide actionable solutions, from spa treatments to DIY remedies, ensuring your skin stays healthy and radiant.
The altitude in Santa Fe, hovering around 7,000 feet, means thinner air and increased UV radiation. This translates to faster water loss from your skin and a higher risk of sunburn. The dry air exacerbates the problem, pulling moisture away and leaving your skin feeling tight, itchy, and prone to fine lines.
Let’s talk spas. Santa Fe boasts a variety, each with its own strengths. Hotel spas, like those at the La Fonda on the Plaza or the Inn of the Governors, offer a luxurious, all-encompassing experience. They’re perfect for a day of pampering, but often come with a higher price tag. Day spas, such as Absolute Nirvana Spa Tea Room, provide a more focused and often more affordable option. They specialize in specific treatments like facials, massages, and body wraps. Medspas, like Santa Fe Skin Institute, bridge the gap between traditional spas and medical clinics. They offer advanced treatments like laser resurfacing, chemical peels, and injectables, often under the supervision of a medical professional.
Choosing the right spa depends on your needs and budget. For deep hydration, consider a facial with hyaluronic acid or a body wrap using shea butter or coconut oil. For sun damage, look for treatments with antioxidants like vitamin C or green tea. Medspas are ideal for addressing more serious concerns like wrinkles, sunspots, and acne.
DIY remedies can also be incredibly effective. A simple honey mask can provide deep hydration. Honey is a natural humectant, meaning it draws moisture from the air into your skin. Apply a thin layer of raw honey to your face, leave it on for 15-20 minutes, and rinse with warm water. Another great option is an avocado mask. Avocados are rich in healthy fats and vitamins that nourish and moisturize the skin. Mash half an avocado and apply it to your face for 20 minutes before rinsing.
One common mistake people make in Santa Fe is not drinking enough water. Dehydration is a major contributor to dry skin. Aim to drink at least eight glasses of water a day, and consider adding electrolytes to help your body retain fluids. Another pitfall is using harsh soaps and cleansers. These can strip your skin of its natural oils, making dryness even worse. Opt for gentle, fragrance-free cleansers that are specifically designed for dry or sensitive skin.
Sunscreen is non-negotiable in Santa Fe. Choose a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher, and apply it liberally 15-20 minutes before going outside. Reapply every two hours, or more often if you’re swimming or sweating. Don’t forget to protect your lips with a lip balm that contains SPF.
Now, let’s talk specific product recommendations available at local Santa Fe spas. At the Sunrise Springs Spa Resort, you can find products from Naturopathica, known for their natural and organic ingredients. Their Calendula Essential Hydrating Cream is a great choice for dry, sensitive skin. At the Four Seasons Resort Rancho Encantado Santa Fe, they often carry products from Tata Harper, a luxury skincare brand that uses 100% natural and non-toxic ingredients. Their Hydrating Floral Mask is a cult favorite for its ability to plump and hydrate the skin.
For a more budget-friendly option, check out the selection at Body of Santa Fe. They often carry products from local artisans, including handmade soaps and lotions with natural ingredients like lavender and chamomile.
Consider incorporating a humidifier into your home, especially during the dry winter months. This will help to add moisture back into the air and prevent your skin from drying out. Also, avoid taking long, hot showers or baths, as these can also strip your skin of its natural oils.
Santa Fe’s climate presents unique challenges, but with the right knowledge and strategies, you can keep your skin healthy and radiant. By understanding the impact of altitude and dryness, choosing the right spa treatments or DIY remedies, and using the right skincare products, you can conquer the desert dryness and enjoy the beauty of Santa Fe without sacrificing your skin’s health. Remember, consistency is key. Make these tips a part of your daily routine, and your skin will thank you.