Taos Air: Is Altitude Cracking Eczema Youth?
By Franklin Everett ShawThe frantic energy of packing for a family trip can often overshadow crucial health considerations, especially when children with eczema are involved. Imagine rushing through security at Denver International Airport, the dry cabin air already starting to irritate sensitive skin. Then, picture arriving in Taos, New Mexico, a haven for artists and outdoor enthusiasts, but also a high-altitude desert where the air is thin and even drier. For a child with eczema, this combination of air travel and a drastically different climate can be a recipe for a flare-up.
Flying Taos Air to Taos, or any airline for that matter, doesn’t directly cause eczema. Eczema is a chronic inflammatory skin condition with genetic and environmental triggers. However, the conditions associated with air travel and the high-altitude, arid climate of Taos can certainly exacerbate existing eczema. The key is understanding these triggers and proactively managing them.
Let’s break down the challenges and solutions, focusing on practical steps you can take before, during, and after your flight to Taos.
Pre-Flight Skincare: Building a Protective Barrier
Think of your child’s skin as a fortress. Before exposing it to the harsh conditions of air travel, you need to reinforce its defenses. This means focusing on hydration and barrier repair.
Emollient Overload: Start several days before your trip by applying a thick, fragrance-free emollient multiple times a day. This isn’t just a light lotion; we’re talking about ointments like petroleum jelly (Vaseline) or thick creams like CeraVe Healing Ointment or Aquaphor. These create a physical barrier that locks in moisture and protects the skin from irritants.
The Wet Wrap Technique (If Needed): For children with severe eczema, consider wet wrapping the night before the flight. This involves applying a thick layer of emollient, covering it with a damp cloth, and then a dry layer. This intensifies the moisturizing effect and reduces inflammation. Consult your pediatrician or dermatologist before trying this.
Avoid Irritants: A few days before the flight, eliminate any potential irritants from your child’s routine. This includes harsh soaps, fragranced detergents, and scratchy clothing. Opt for gentle, hypoallergenic products.
Pack Smart: Pack a dedicated skincare kit in your carry-on bag. This should include your child’s usual emollient, a gentle cleanser, and any prescribed topical medications. Don’t rely on finding these items easily in Taos, especially if your child has specific sensitivities.
In-Flight Hydration: Combating Cabin Dryness
Airplane cabins are notoriously dry, with humidity levels often below 20%. This can quickly strip moisture from the skin, leading to itching and irritation.
Hydration from Within: Encourage your child to drink plenty of water throughout the flight. Avoid sugary drinks, which can actually dehydrate the body. Pack a reusable water bottle and refill it after going through security.
Emollient Application (Repeatedly!): Reapply emollient frequently during the flight, especially to areas prone to dryness, such as the hands, face, and elbows. Aim for every 2-3 hours, or whenever the skin feels dry.
Gentle Cleansing Wipes: Pack fragrance-free, hypoallergenic cleansing wipes. These can be used to gently cleanse the skin if it becomes soiled or irritated during the flight. Avoid harsh soaps or hand sanitizers, which can further dry out the skin.
Consider a Humidifier (Portable): While not always practical, a small, portable humidifier can help increase the humidity around your child’s seat. Check with the airline beforehand to ensure it’s allowed.
Dress Appropriately: Dress your child in loose-fitting, breathable clothing made from cotton or other natural fibers. Avoid wool or synthetic fabrics, which can irritate the skin.
Post-Arrival in Taos: Adapting to the High-Altitude Desert
Taos presents a unique set of challenges for eczema sufferers. The high altitude means lower oxygen levels and increased UV radiation, while the desert climate means extremely dry air.
Immediate Moisturizing: As soon as you arrive at your accommodation in Taos, apply a generous layer of emollient to your child’s skin. This will help replenish any moisture lost during the flight and start protecting against the dry air.
Humidification is Key: Invest in a humidifier for your hotel room or rental property. Aim for a humidity level of around 40-50%. This will help keep the skin hydrated and reduce itching.
Sun Protection is Essential: The high altitude in Taos means increased exposure to UV radiation, which can trigger eczema flare-ups. Apply a broad-spectrum, fragrance-free sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher to all exposed skin, even on cloudy days. Reapply every two hours, or more frequently if swimming or sweating.
Gentle Bathing: Limit bathing to once a day or every other day, using lukewarm water and a gentle, fragrance-free cleanser. Avoid hot showers or baths, which can strip the skin of its natural oils. Pat the skin dry gently and apply emollient immediately after bathing.
Local Pharmacy Recommendations: For eczema-friendly products readily available in Taos, consider checking out the Taos Pharmacy or Cid’s Food Market (which has a pharmacy section). Look for brands like Vanicream, Cetaphil, or Aveeno, which are generally well-tolerated by people with eczema. Ask the pharmacist for recommendations based on your child’s specific needs. They may also carry locally made, natural skincare products that are suitable for sensitive skin.
Monitor and Adjust: Pay close attention to your child’s skin and adjust your skincare routine as needed. If you notice any signs of a flare-up, such as increased redness, itching, or dryness, increase the frequency of emollient application and consider using a topical corticosteroid cream as prescribed by your doctor.
Common Pitfalls and How to Avoid Them
Assuming “Natural” is Always Better: Just because a product is labeled “natural” or “organic” doesn’t mean it’s safe for eczema-prone skin. Many natural ingredients, such as essential oils and plant extracts, can be irritating. Always patch-test new products on a small area of skin before applying them to the entire body.
Over-Washing: Frequent hand washing, especially with harsh soaps, can exacerbate eczema. Teach your child to wash their hands with lukewarm water and a gentle cleanser, and to apply emollient immediately afterward.
Ignoring Triggers: Keep a diary to track potential eczema triggers, such as certain foods, allergens, or stress. This can help you identify and avoid these triggers in the future.
Not Seeking Professional Help: If your child’s eczema is severe or not responding to over-the-counter treatments, consult a dermatologist. They can provide a personalized treatment plan and prescribe stronger medications if needed.
Flying to Taos with a child who has eczema requires careful planning and proactive skincare. By understanding the challenges posed by air travel and the high-altitude desert climate, and by implementing the strategies outlined above, you can help minimize the risk of flare-ups and ensure a comfortable and enjoyable trip for your entire family. Remember, consistency is key. A well-established skincare routine, both before, during, and after your flight, is your best defense against eczema flare-ups.