Taos AC: Altitude Air Cracking Youth Lipids?
By Franklin Everett ShawThe crisp mountain air bites at your cheeks, a stark contrast to the sun’s intense warmth. You’re in Taos, New Mexico, a land of ancient adobe and breathtaking vistas. But this unique environment, perched at nearly 7,000 feet, presents a hidden challenge: its impact on your skin.
The altitude in Taos isn’t just about thinner air; it’s a triple whammy of dryness, increased UV exposure, and accelerated aging. We’re diving deep into how this affects your skin’s lipid production and what you can do about it, right here in Taos.
High altitude means lower air pressure. This leads to increased water evaporation from your skin, a process called Transepidermal Water Loss (TEWL).
Think of your skin’s lipid barrier as a protective wall. It’s made of fats (lipids) that keep moisture in and irritants out. In Taos, this wall is constantly under attack.
The dry air sucks moisture away, forcing your skin to work overtime to produce lipids. Over time, this can lead to a weakened barrier, resulting in dryness, irritation, and even inflammation.
Is “air cracking” a real thing? While not a scientifically recognized term, it perfectly describes the sensation many experience in dry, high-altitude environments. It’s that feeling of your skin being so parched it feels like it might crack.
The lower humidity in Taos exacerbates this. The air simply can’t hold as much moisture, leaving your skin high and dry.
UV radiation is another major factor. At higher altitudes, the atmosphere is thinner, meaning less UV radiation is filtered out.
For every 1,000 feet you ascend, UV levels increase by approximately 4-5%. Taos’s elevation means you’re getting a significantly higher dose of UV rays compared to sea level.
This increased UV exposure damages collagen and elastin, the proteins that keep your skin firm and elastic. It also contributes to the breakdown of lipids, further weakening your skin’s barrier.
Aging skin in Taos faces unique challenges. As we age, our skin naturally produces fewer lipids. Combine this with the harsh Taos environment, and you have a recipe for accelerated aging.
Fine lines and wrinkles become more pronounced, and skin loses its elasticity more quickly. The dryness can also exacerbate existing skin conditions like eczema and psoriasis.
So, what can you do to combat these effects? The key is to focus on hydration and barrier repair.
First, hydrate from the inside out. Drink plenty of water throughout the day. The dry air will dehydrate you faster than you realize.
Next, invest in a good humidifier, especially for your bedroom. This will help to replenish moisture in the air while you sleep.
Now, let’s talk skincare. The cornerstone of any high-altitude skincare routine is a rich moisturizer.
Look for ingredients like:
- Hyaluronic acid: A humectant that draws moisture from the air into your skin.
- Ceramides: Lipids that help to repair and strengthen the skin barrier.
- Shea butter: An emollient that softens and smooths the skin.
- Jojoba oil: Mimics the skin’s natural sebum, providing deep hydration.
Avoid products containing harsh alcohols or fragrances, as these can further dry out your skin.
In Taos, you can find excellent moisturizers at:
- Taos Pharmacy: They often carry locally made skincare products with natural ingredients.
- Cid’s Food Market: Surprisingly, they have a decent selection of natural skincare brands.
- Op.Cit Books, Coffee, and Curiosities: They carry a range of locally made soaps and lotions.
For a more intensive treatment, consider incorporating a facial oil into your routine. Apply it after your moisturizer to lock in hydration.
Argan oil, rosehip oil, and sea buckthorn oil are all excellent choices. They’re rich in antioxidants and essential fatty acids that help to nourish and protect the skin.
Don’t forget about sunscreen! A broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher is essential, even on cloudy days.
Reapply every two hours, especially if you’re spending time outdoors. Look for mineral sunscreens containing zinc oxide or titanium dioxide, as they’re less likely to irritate sensitive skin.
Exfoliation is also important, but be gentle. Over-exfoliating can strip your skin of its natural oils and further weaken the barrier.
Use a gentle chemical exfoliant like lactic acid or glycolic acid once or twice a week. Avoid harsh scrubs, as they can cause micro-tears in the skin.
Consider visiting a local spa for a hydrating facial.
The Blake at Taos Ski Valley offers a variety of spa treatments designed to combat dryness and sun damage.
El Monte Sagrado also has a beautiful spa with a focus on holistic wellness.
If you’re concerned about aging skin, consult with a dermatologist.
Dr. Mary Beth Augustine at Taos Dermatology specializes in treating skin conditions in high-altitude environments.
She can recommend personalized treatments and products to address your specific concerns.
One common mistake people make is using too many active ingredients at once. This can overwhelm the skin and lead to irritation.
Start slowly and introduce new products one at a time. Pay attention to how your skin reacts and adjust your routine accordingly.
Another pitfall is neglecting the rest of your body. Your hands, feet, and lips are also susceptible to dryness in Taos.
Use a rich hand cream and foot cream regularly, and apply lip balm with SPF throughout the day.
Remember, consistency is key. It takes time to repair a damaged skin barrier.
Stick to your routine, and you’ll start to see a difference in the health and appearance of your skin.
Living in Taos presents unique challenges, but with the right knowledge and skincare routine, you can keep your skin healthy, hydrated, and radiant. Embrace the beauty of this high-altitude paradise without sacrificing your skin’s well-being.