Santa Fe Sun: Altitude AC Cracking Summer Skin?
By Franklin Everett ShawThe air in Santa Fe, it just feels different. It’s not just the crisp mountain air; it’s the dryness. That dryness that sneaks into your skin, leaving it feeling tight, itchy, and generally unhappy. And if you’re like me, you’ve probably tried every lotion under the sun, only to find temporary relief before the desert reclaims its moisture. But fear not, fellow Santa Feans! There’s a way to win this battle against the arid climate, and it starts with understanding the unique challenges our city presents.
Living in Santa Fe means battling a trifecta of skin-drying elements: high altitude, intense sun, and the ubiquitous air conditioning. The altitude, hovering around 7,000 feet, means thinner air and less humidity. This leads to faster evaporation of moisture from your skin. The sun, even on cloudy days, is incredibly intense due to the thinner atmosphere, accelerating skin damage and moisture loss. Finally, air conditioning, a necessity during the hot summer months, sucks even more moisture out of the air, creating a perfect storm for dry, irritated skin.
So, what’s a Santa Fean to do? The key is a multi-pronged approach, focusing on hydration, protection, and smart product choices.
First, let’s talk moisturizers. Not all moisturizers are created equal, especially in our climate. You need something that not only hydrates but also creates a barrier to prevent moisture loss. Look for products containing humectants, emollients, and occlusives. Humectants, like hyaluronic acid and glycerin, draw moisture from the air into your skin. Emollients, such as shea butter and ceramides, smooth and soften the skin. Occlusives, like petrolatum and beeswax, create a physical barrier to prevent water from evaporating.
A great option readily available at local Santa Fe stores like La Montañita Co-op or Natural Grocers is Weleda Skin Food. It’s a rich, plant-based cream that acts as both an emollient and occlusive, creating a protective layer against the elements. Another excellent choice, often found at Pharmacies like Walgreens or CVS, is CeraVe Moisturizing Cream. It contains ceramides, hyaluronic acid, and petrolatum, making it a powerful hydrator and barrier protector.
However, simply slapping on moisturizer once a day isn’t enough. You need to layer your products. Start with a hydrating serum containing hyaluronic acid on damp skin after showering. This will help draw moisture into your skin. Follow with your moisturizer to lock in that hydration. Consider adding a facial oil, like rosehip or argan oil, as the final step, especially at night, for an extra layer of protection.
Don’t underestimate the power of SPF. The Santa Fe sun is relentless, and sun damage is a major contributor to dry skin and premature aging. You need to wear sunscreen every single day, even when it’s cloudy. Look for a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher. Mineral sunscreens containing zinc oxide or titanium dioxide are generally gentler on sensitive skin and provide excellent protection.
EltaMD UV Clear Broad-Spectrum SPF 46 is a popular choice, often recommended by dermatologists, and can be found at local medical spas or online. It’s lightweight, non-comedogenic, and contains niacinamide, which can help reduce redness and inflammation. Another readily available option is Neutrogena Ultra Sheer Dry-Touch Sunscreen, which is affordable and effective, though it may not be suitable for very sensitive skin.
Now, let’s talk about DIY remedies. Northern New Mexico is rich in natural ingredients that can soothe and hydrate dry skin. One of my favorites is a simple honey and avocado mask. Honey is a natural humectant, drawing moisture into the skin, while avocado is packed with healthy fats and vitamins that nourish and hydrate. Simply mash half an avocado with a tablespoon of local honey (you can find amazing local honey at the Santa Fe Farmers’ Market) and apply it to your face for 15-20 minutes. Rinse with lukewarm water and pat dry.
Another great DIY remedy is an oatmeal bath. Oatmeal has anti-inflammatory properties and can help soothe itchy, irritated skin. Grind a cup of plain oatmeal into a fine powder and add it to a lukewarm bath. Soak for 15-20 minutes. Be careful, as the tub can become slippery.
But here’s a crucial point: avoid harsh soaps and cleansers. Many soaps strip your skin of its natural oils, exacerbating dryness. Opt for gentle, fragrance-free cleansers. Look for products labeled “for sensitive skin” or “non-drying.” Cetaphil Gentle Skin Cleanser is a classic choice, widely available at drugstores, and is known for its mildness.
One common mistake I see people make is over-exfoliating. While exfoliation is important for removing dead skin cells, overdoing it can damage your skin’s barrier and lead to increased dryness and irritation. Limit exfoliation to once or twice a week, and use a gentle exfoliator. A konjac sponge is a great option for gentle daily exfoliation.
Another pitfall is taking long, hot showers. While a hot shower might feel good, it can strip your skin of its natural oils. Opt for shorter, lukewarm showers instead. And always apply moisturizer immediately after showering to lock in moisture.
Finally, remember that hydration starts from within. Drink plenty of water throughout the day. Consider adding a humidifier to your home, especially during the winter months, to increase the humidity in the air. This can make a significant difference in your skin’s hydration levels.
Living in Santa Fe presents unique challenges to maintaining healthy, hydrated skin. But by understanding the specific factors that contribute to dryness and adopting a targeted skincare routine, you can combat the desert climate and achieve a healthy, radiant complexion. Remember to focus on hydration, protection, and smart product choices, and don’t be afraid to experiment with DIY remedies using local ingredients. Your skin will thank you for it.