Santa Fe Steam: Is Desert Air Cracking Senior Skin?

By Franklin Everett Shaw

August 12, 2025

The desert air here in Santa Fe isn’t just dry; it’s a relentless thief, constantly stealing moisture from your skin. For seniors, this can lead to discomfort, cracking, and even increase the risk of infection. But don’t despair! With the right knowledge and a targeted approach, you can reclaim your skin’s health and maintain a comfortable, hydrated complexion, even in this arid environment.

The key is understanding why Santa Fe’s climate is so harsh on skin. The low humidity means there’s very little moisture in the air to replenish what your skin loses. This is compounded by the altitude, which can increase water loss through the skin.

So, what can you do? Let’s break down a comprehensive skincare routine tailored for Santa Fe seniors.

First, gentle cleansing is paramount. Harsh soaps strip away natural oils, exacerbating dryness. Opt for creamy, fragrance-free cleansers specifically designed for sensitive skin. Look for ingredients like ceramides or hyaluronic acid, which help to retain moisture. CeraVe Hydrating Facial Cleanser is a readily available and affordable option. Avoid anything with sulfates, as these are known irritants.

Next, immediate hydration is crucial. Don’t wait for your skin to feel tight. Apply a moisturizer while your skin is still damp after cleansing. This helps to trap water and maximize absorption.

What kind of moisturizer? This is where things get interesting, and where we can leverage local resources. Santa Fe is surrounded by the high desert, and that desert offers some incredible ingredients.

Prickly pear seed oil is a fantastic option. It’s rich in essential fatty acids and vitamin E, providing deep hydration and antioxidant protection. Several local Santa Fe businesses, like the Santa Fe Soap Company, incorporate prickly pear seed oil into their products. Seek them out! They often use locally sourced ingredients and offer formulations specifically designed for the desert climate.

Beyond prickly pear, look for moisturizers containing:

Hyaluronic acid: A humectant that draws moisture from the air into the skin.
Glycerin: Another humectant that helps to hydrate and soften the skin.
Ceramides: Lipids that help to restore the skin’s natural barrier function.
Shea butter: A rich emollient that provides deep hydration and protection.

Don’t forget sunscreen! The sun is intense in Santa Fe, even on cloudy days. Sun damage further compromises the skin’s barrier function, leading to increased dryness and premature aging. Use a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher every day, even if you’re just running errands. EltaMD UV Clear Broad-Spectrum SPF 46 is a popular choice, known for being gentle and effective.

Now, let’s talk about humidifiers. These are essential for combating the dry air indoors. A humidifier adds moisture back into the air, helping to prevent your skin from drying out. Place a humidifier in your bedroom and any other rooms where you spend a lot of time. Clean your humidifier regularly to prevent the growth of mold and bacteria.

Here’s a sample daily routine:

Morning:
- Gentle cleanser (e.g., CeraVe Hydrating Facial Cleanser).
- Hyaluronic acid serum (e.g., The Ordinary Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5).
- Moisturizer with prickly pear seed oil or other hydrating ingredients (e.g., Santa Fe Soap Company moisturizer).
- Broad-spectrum sunscreen (e.g., EltaMD UV Clear Broad-Spectrum SPF 46).
Evening:
- Gentle cleanser.
- Hydrating toner (optional, but can help to balance the skin’s pH).
- Rich moisturizer with ceramides and shea butter (e.g., CeraVe Moisturizing Cream).

Weekly Exfoliation:

Gently exfoliate once or twice a week to remove dead skin cells and allow moisturizers to penetrate more effectively. Avoid harsh scrubs, which can irritate the skin. A gentle chemical exfoliant, such as a lactic acid serum, is a good option. The Ordinary Lactic Acid 10% + HA is a popular and affordable choice.

Common Mistakes and Pitfalls:

Over-exfoliating: This can damage the skin’s barrier function and lead to increased dryness and sensitivity. Stick to exfoliating once or twice a week.
Using hot water: Hot water strips away natural oils, exacerbating dryness. Use lukewarm water for cleansing.
Ignoring your hands and feet: These areas are particularly prone to dryness. Apply a rich moisturizer to your hands and feet several times a day, especially after washing. Consider wearing cotton gloves and socks overnight to lock in moisture.
Not drinking enough water: Hydration starts from within. Drink plenty of water throughout the day to keep your skin hydrated.
Using products with alcohol: Alcohol is a drying ingredient that should be avoided. Check the ingredient lists of your skincare products and avoid anything with alcohol denat. or isopropyl alcohol.

Specific Challenges for Seniors:

Thinning skin: As we age, our skin becomes thinner and more fragile, making it more susceptible to dryness and damage. Choose gentle, non-irritating products.
Reduced oil production: Our skin produces less oil as we age, which can contribute to dryness. Use rich, emollient moisturizers to compensate for this loss.
Medications: Some medications can cause dry skin as a side effect. Talk to your doctor about any medications you’re taking and whether they could be contributing to your dry skin.

Real-World Application:

Let’s say you’re a senior living in the Casa de Oro neighborhood of Santa Fe. You enjoy spending time outdoors, gardening and walking your dog. This exposure to the sun and dry air can take a toll on your skin. By following the routine outlined above, you can protect your skin from the elements and maintain a healthy, hydrated complexion. You can also support local businesses by purchasing prickly pear seed oil products from the Santa Fe Soap Company or other local vendors.

Actionable Insights:

Start slowly: Don’t try to overhaul your entire skincare routine at once. Introduce new products gradually to see how your skin reacts.
Be consistent: Consistency is key to seeing results. Stick to your skincare routine every day, even when you’re tired or busy.
Listen to your skin: Pay attention to how your skin feels and adjust your routine accordingly. If your skin is feeling dry, add more moisturizer. If it’s feeling irritated, cut back on exfoliating.
Consult a dermatologist: If you’re struggling to manage your dry skin, consult a dermatologist. They can help you identify any underlying skin conditions and recommend a personalized treatment plan.

Living in Santa Fe’s dry climate doesn’t have to mean living with dry, uncomfortable skin. By understanding the challenges and implementing a targeted skincare routine, you can maintain a healthy, hydrated complexion and enjoy all that this beautiful city has to offer. Remember to leverage the unique resources available right here in Santa Fe, like locally sourced prickly pear seed oil, to give your skin the nourishment it needs to thrive.