**Santa Fe Steam: Dry Air Stealing Summer Lasers?**
By Franklin Everett ShawThe desert air whispers secrets of ancient traditions and breathtaking landscapes, but it also carries a less welcome truth for those seeking smooth, hair-free skin: it can sabotage your laser hair removal efforts. Santa Fe’s unique climate, with its high altitude and intense dryness, presents specific challenges that require a tailored approach. Let’s dive into how you can ensure your laser hair removal treatments are effective and your skin stays healthy in this beautiful, yet demanding, environment.
Laser hair removal works by targeting the pigment in hair follicles with concentrated light. Dry skin, however, can scatter this light, reducing the treatment’s effectiveness and increasing the risk of burns or irritation. The arid climate of Santa Fe exacerbates this issue, drawing moisture away from the skin and compromising its natural barrier function.
So, what’s a Santa Fean to do? The key is proactive hydration and barrier protection, both before and after your laser sessions.
Pre-Treatment Prep: Hydration is Your Amigo
Start hydrating from the inside out. Aim to drink at least eight glasses of water daily in the weeks leading up to your appointment. Consider adding electrolytes, especially if you’re active, to improve hydration at the cellular level.
Next, focus on topical hydration. Switch to a richer, more emollient moisturizer. Look for ingredients like hyaluronic acid, which attracts and holds moisture, and ceramides, which help repair the skin barrier. A great option readily available at local Santa Fe retailers like La Fonda Hotel Shops or even Whole Foods Market on Cerrillos Road is a cream containing both hyaluronic acid and shea butter. Apply it liberally twice a day, especially after showering.
Avoid harsh soaps or cleansers that can strip your skin of its natural oils. Opt for gentle, fragrance-free cleansers. A good choice is Cetaphil Gentle Skin Cleanser, widely available at drugstores like Walgreens on St. Michael’s Drive.
Exfoliate gently a few days before your appointment. This removes dead skin cells, allowing for better penetration of hydrating products. However, avoid harsh scrubs or chemical peels that can irritate the skin. A mild enzyme mask, available at beauty supply stores like Sephora in the Santa Fe Place Mall, is a good option.
Post-Treatment TLC: Soothing and Repairing
After your laser session, your skin will be particularly vulnerable. Follow your technician’s instructions carefully.
Continue with your hydrating routine, but focus on soothing ingredients. Aloe vera gel is a classic choice for calming irritated skin. You can find pure aloe vera gel at most pharmacies in Santa Fe.
Apply a thick layer of moisturizer several times a day. Consider using a healing balm containing ingredients like panthenol or allantoin, which promote skin repair. Aquaphor Healing Ointment, available at Target on Zafarano Drive, is a reliable option.
Avoid sun exposure. Santa Fe’s high altitude means the sun’s rays are more intense. Wear protective clothing and apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher, even on cloudy days. EltaMD UV Clear Broad-Spectrum SPF 46 is a popular choice among dermatologists and can be found at some local medical spas.
Skip hot showers, saunas, and strenuous exercise for a few days. These activities can increase inflammation and delay healing.
Avoid using harsh products or exfoliants on the treated area for at least a week.
Common Pitfalls and How to Avoid Them
Mistake: Neglecting hydration in the weeks leading up to the treatment. Solution: Start hydrating early and consistently.
Mistake: Using harsh products after the treatment. Solution: Stick to gentle, soothing ingredients.
Mistake: Exposing the treated area to the sun. Solution: Wear protective clothing and sunscreen.
Mistake: Not following the technician’s instructions. Solution: Listen carefully and ask questions if you’re unsure about anything.
Mistake: Assuming all moisturizers are created equal. Solution: Look for ingredients specifically designed to hydrate and repair the skin barrier.
Santa Fe Specific Considerations
Santa Fe’s altitude can further dehydrate the skin. Consider using a humidifier in your home, especially during the dry winter months.
The dry air can also lead to increased sensitivity. Be extra cautious with new products and always do a patch test before applying them to the treated area.
Consult with a local dermatologist or esthetician who is familiar with the challenges of treating skin in Santa Fe’s climate. They can provide personalized recommendations and address any specific concerns you may have.
Beyond the Basics: Advanced Hydration Strategies
Consider incorporating a hydrating serum into your routine. Serums with hyaluronic acid or vitamin C can provide an extra boost of moisture and antioxidants.
Explore the benefits of facial oils. Oils can help lock in moisture and protect the skin barrier. Look for non-comedogenic oils like jojoba or argan oil.
Talk to your doctor about the possibility of taking oral hyaluronic acid supplements. While more research is needed, some studies suggest that oral hyaluronic acid can improve skin hydration.
Laser hair removal in Santa Fe’s dry climate requires a proactive and informed approach. By prioritizing hydration, protecting your skin barrier, and following these tips, you can achieve optimal results and enjoy smooth, healthy skin. Remember to consult with local professionals for personalized advice and product recommendations tailored to your specific needs and the unique challenges of the Santa Fe environment.