**Taos AC: Altitude Lies Stealing Lip Hydration?**
By Franklin Everett ShawThe dry air here in Taos, New Mexico, isn’t just a saying; it’s a reality that can wreak havoc on your skin, especially your lips. But when you crank up the AC to escape the summer heat, you’re unknowingly accelerating the problem.
It’s a double whammy: high altitude and artificial cooling, a recipe for what many locals call “Taos Lips.”
Let’s dive into why this happens and, more importantly, what you can do about it, right here in Taos.
At 7,000 feet above sea level, Taos has significantly lower humidity than coastal areas. This means there’s less moisture in the air to hydrate your skin naturally.
Air conditioning further exacerbates this issue. AC units work by removing moisture from the air, creating an even drier environment indoors.
This forces your body to work harder to maintain hydration, and your lips, with their thin skin and constant exposure, are often the first to suffer.
The science is simple: water moves from areas of high concentration (your lips) to areas of low concentration (the dry air). This process, called osmosis, leads to rapid dehydration.
The result? Chapped, cracked, and sometimes even bleeding lips – a painful and unsightly condition.
But don’t despair! “Taos Lips” are preventable with the right approach.
First, let’s talk lip balm. Not all lip balms are created equal.
Avoid balms containing camphor, menthol, or eucalyptus. While they might provide a temporary cooling sensation, they actually dry out your lips in the long run.
Instead, look for balms with occlusive ingredients like beeswax, shea butter, or cocoa butter. These create a physical barrier that prevents moisture from escaping.
Specifically, I recommend checking out the selection at Cid’s Food Market on Paseo del Pueblo Norte. They often carry locally made beeswax balms that are perfect for the Taos climate.
Another great option is the “Lip Rescue” balm from Taos Soap Co., available at their store on Bent Street. It’s packed with natural oils and butters that deeply hydrate and protect.
Next, consider investing in a humidifier for your home, especially if you’re running the AC frequently. A humidifier adds moisture back into the air, counteracting the drying effects of the AC.
Look for a cool-mist humidifier, as these are generally safer and more energy-efficient. You can find a decent selection at Lowe’s on Cruz Alta Road.
Aim for a humidity level of around 40-50%. You can monitor the humidity with a simple hygrometer, also available at Lowe’s.
Hydration from the inside out is equally crucial. Drink plenty of water throughout the day.
A good rule of thumb is to drink half your body weight in ounces of water. So, if you weigh 150 pounds, aim for 75 ounces of water daily.
Carry a reusable water bottle with you and sip on it throughout the day. The Taos Mesa Brewing Mothership often has water stations available, making it easy to refill your bottle.
Avoid sugary drinks and excessive caffeine, as these can actually dehydrate you. Opt for water, herbal teas, or infused water with fruits and vegetables.
Here’s a step-by-step routine to combat "Taos Lips":
Exfoliate: Gently exfoliate your lips 1-2 times per week to remove dead skin cells. You can use a soft toothbrush or a homemade scrub made with sugar and honey.
Hydrate: Apply a thick layer of hydrating lip balm before bed. This will allow your lips to absorb moisture overnight.
Protect: Apply lip balm with SPF before going outside, even on cloudy days. The sun’s rays can further dry out your lips.
Humidify: Use a humidifier in your home, especially in your bedroom.
Hydrate Internally: Drink plenty of water throughout the day.
Common mistakes developers make when dealing with lip dehydration in dry climates include:
Ignoring the problem: Many people simply dismiss chapped lips as a minor inconvenience and don’t take steps to prevent them.
Using the wrong lip balm: As mentioned earlier, some lip balms can actually worsen the problem.
Not drinking enough water: Internal hydration is just as important as external hydration.
Forgetting SPF: The sun can significantly contribute to lip dehydration.
Over-exfoliating: Exfoliating too often can irritate your lips and make them more susceptible to dryness.
To overcome these challenges, educate yourself about the causes of “Taos Lips” and implement the strategies outlined above.
Be consistent with your routine, and you’ll be well on your way to having healthy, hydrated lips, even in the dry Taos climate.
Remember, prevention is key. Don’t wait until your lips are already cracked and bleeding to start taking care of them.
Start now, and you can enjoy the beauty of Taos without the discomfort of “Taos Lips.”
And if you’re visiting Taos, be sure to pack your favorite lip balm and stay hydrated! The altitude and dry air can catch you off guard if you’re not prepared.
Enjoy your time in Taos, and keep those lips happy!