Taos AC: Altitude Lies Drying Summer Lips?

By Franklin Everett Shaw

January 6, 2026

The sting of winter’s bite might be gone, but the high-altitude sun and relentless air conditioning of a Taos summer can wage a different kind of war on your lips. They become dry, cracked, and painful. Forget that perfect pout; you’re battling a desert landscape right on your face. But fear not, fellow Taoseños and visitors! We’re diving deep into the art of lip hydration, Taos-style, with local secrets and strategies to keep your lips luscious all summer long.

The problem isn’t just the sun. It’s a triple threat: altitude, aridity, and artificial climate control. Taos sits at a lung-busting 6,969 feet above sea level. This means thinner air, which translates to faster moisture evaporation from your skin, including your lips. Add to that the naturally dry climate of New Mexico, and you’ve got a recipe for dehydration. Then, crank up the air conditioning in your home, hotel, or even your car, and you’re essentially sucking even more moisture out of the air, and consequently, your lips.

So, what’s a person to do? Generic lip balms from the drugstore might offer temporary relief, but they often contain ingredients that can actually worsen the problem in the long run. Think about it: petroleum-based products create a barrier, but they don’t actually hydrate. They just trap existing moisture (or lack thereof). And some ingredients, like menthol or camphor, can be irritating and drying over time.

The solution? Embrace the local! Taos and the surrounding region offer a wealth of natural ingredients and handcrafted products perfectly suited for this unique environment.

New Mexico Beeswax: Beeswax is a natural emollient and humectant, meaning it both softens the skin and attracts moisture. Look for lip balms made with locally sourced beeswax. Many Taos artisans use beeswax from regional apiaries, ensuring a high-quality, sustainable product. Check out the Taos Farmers Market for local vendors.
Regional Plant Extracts: New Mexico is home to a variety of plants with incredible healing and hydrating properties. Prickly pear seed oil, for example, is rich in antioxidants and essential fatty acids, making it a powerful moisturizer. Chamomile and calendula are known for their soothing and anti-inflammatory properties, perfect for chapped lips. Look for lip products that incorporate these regional botanicals.
Shea Butter and Coconut Oil: While not strictly local, these ingredients are widely available and highly effective. Shea butter is incredibly moisturizing and helps to create a protective barrier. Coconut oil is also a great emollient and has antibacterial properties.

Now, let’s talk about humidification. That air conditioning unit might be keeping you cool, but it’s also turning your home into a desert.

Whole-House Humidifiers: If you’re a Taos resident, investing in a whole-house humidifier is a game-changer. These systems attach to your HVAC system and add moisture to the air throughout your entire home. They’re more expensive upfront, but they’re the most effective way to combat the drying effects of air conditioning.
Portable Humidifiers: For tourists staying in hotels or smaller rentals, a portable humidifier is a great option. Place it near your bed at night to add moisture to the air while you sleep. Look for models with a large water tank and adjustable settings.
DIY Humidification: On a budget? You can create your own makeshift humidifier by placing a bowl of water near a heat source (like a radiator or a sunny window). The water will evaporate and add moisture to the air. You can also hang damp towels in your bathroom after a shower.

But products and humidifiers are only part of the solution. You also need to adjust your lifestyle to combat the drying effects of Taos’ climate.

Hydrate, Hydrate, Hydrate: This seems obvious, but it’s crucial. Drink plenty of water throughout the day. Carry a water bottle with you and refill it often. Avoid sugary drinks, which can actually dehydrate you.
Strategic Hydration: Don’t just chug water when you’re thirsty. Sip water consistently throughout the day. Start your day with a large glass of water and end your day with another.
Avoid Lip-Licking: This is a tough one, but it’s essential. Licking your lips might provide temporary relief, but it actually dries them out even more. The saliva evaporates quickly, leaving your lips even drier than before.
Protect Your Lips from the Sun: Just like your skin, your lips need protection from the sun’s harmful rays. Use a lip balm with an SPF of 30 or higher. Reapply frequently, especially when you’re outdoors.
Exfoliate Regularly: Gently exfoliating your lips can help to remove dead skin cells and allow your lip balm to penetrate more effectively.

Here’s a simple DIY lip scrub recipe using ingredients you can easily find in Taos:

Taos Lip Scrub

Ingredients:

1 tablespoon brown sugar (the coarser texture is ideal for exfoliation)
1 tablespoon olive oil (or coconut oil, if preferred)
1/2 teaspoon honey (local honey is a bonus!)
A few drops of peppermint essential oil (optional, for a refreshing tingle)

Instructions:

Combine all ingredients in a small bowl.
Mix well until you have a thick paste.
Gently massage the scrub onto your lips in a circular motion for 1-2 minutes.
Rinse with warm water.
Apply your favorite Taos-made lip balm.

Common Mistakes and Pitfalls:

Over-Exfoliating: Exfoliating too often can irritate your lips. Limit exfoliation to once or twice a week.
Using Harsh Ingredients: Avoid lip scrubs with harsh ingredients like salt or lemon juice, which can be drying.
Not Reapplying Lip Balm: Apply lip balm frequently throughout the day, especially after eating, drinking, or being outdoors.
Ignoring Underlying Conditions: If your chapped lips are severe or persistent, it could be a sign of an underlying medical condition. Consult with a doctor or dermatologist.

Living in or visiting Taos is an incredible experience. Don’t let dry, chapped lips ruin your summer. By embracing local products, adopting smart humidification strategies, and making a few simple lifestyle adjustments, you can keep your lips healthy, hydrated, and ready for anything Taos throws your way. Now go explore those Georgia O’Keeffe landscapes with a smile!