Taos Air: Altitude Lies Cracking Lip HA?
By Franklin Everett ShawImagine stepping off the plane in Taos, New Mexico, ready for a ski trip or a serene mountain getaway. The crisp, clean air invigorates you, but there’s a hidden challenge lurking: the altitude. At nearly 7,000 feet above sea level, Taos presents a unique environment that can wreak havoc on your skin and lips, especially when combined with the already dry desert climate. Don’t let dry, cracked skin ruin your vacation. This guide will equip you with the knowledge and tools to combat the effects of high altitude and low humidity, ensuring your skin stays healthy and radiant throughout your Taos adventure.
The science is simple: higher altitudes mean lower air pressure and humidity. This leads to increased water loss from your skin through a process called transepidermal water loss (TEWL). The dry New Mexico air exacerbates this, pulling moisture away from your skin like a thirsty vampire. The result? Dryness, flakiness, irritation, and even increased sensitivity to the sun. Your lips, with their thin skin and lack of oil glands, are particularly vulnerable.
So, what’s the solution? A proactive, targeted skincare strategy.
First, hydration is key. This isn’t just about slapping on any old lotion. You need to focus on ingredients that both attract and retain moisture. Look for products containing humectants, emollients, and occlusives.
Humectants draw moisture from the air into your skin. Hyaluronic acid is a superstar humectant, capable of holding up to 1000 times its weight in water. Glycerin and honey are also excellent choices. You can find hyaluronic acid serums at Taos Pharmacy on Paseo del Pueblo Sur.
Emollients soften and smooth the skin by filling in the gaps between skin cells. Think shea butter, cocoa butter, and ceramides. These are often found in richer creams and balms. Check out the selection of shea butter lotions at Cid’s Food Market, another local favorite.
Occlusives create a physical barrier on the skin’s surface, preventing water loss. Petrolatum (Vaseline), beeswax, and mineral oil are effective occlusives. While petrolatum gets a bad rap from some, it’s incredibly effective at sealing in moisture, especially for lips.
Before you even board your Taos Air flight, start hydrating internally. Drink plenty of water in the days leading up to your trip. Avoid excessive alcohol and caffeine, as they can dehydrate you. Consider adding electrolytes to your water to help your body retain fluids more effectively. Nuun tablets, readily available at Smith’s Marketplace in Taos, are a convenient option.
Now, let’s talk about your in-flight skincare routine. Airplanes are notorious for their dry air, making them a breeding ground for dehydration. Pack a travel-sized hydrating mist containing hyaluronic acid or thermal water. Spritz your face every few hours to replenish moisture. Avene Thermal Spring Water, available at most drugstores, is a great choice.
Don’t forget your lips! Apply a thick layer of lip balm containing beeswax or petrolatum every hour. Avoid licking your lips, as this actually worsens dryness. Aquaphor Healing Ointment, a readily available and highly effective lip protectant, can be found at Walgreens in Taos.
Upon arrival in Taos, adjust your skincare routine to the local climate. Switch to a richer moisturizer, especially at night. Consider using a humidifier in your hotel room to add moisture to the air. Many hotels in Taos, like the El Monte Sagrado, offer humidifiers upon request.
Here’s a sample packing list of moisturizing essentials you can easily find in Taos:
- Hyaluronic acid serum: Available at Taos Pharmacy.
- Shea butter lotion: Found at Cid’s Food Market.
- Aquaphor Healing Ointment: Available at Walgreens.
- Avene Thermal Spring Water: Sold at most drugstores.
- Nuun Electrolyte Tablets: Available at Smith’s Marketplace.
- Sunscreen: Essential for protecting your skin from the intense New Mexico sun. Look for broad-spectrum SPF 30 or higher.
Common mistakes and how to avoid them:
Over-exfoliating: High altitude can make your skin more sensitive. Avoid harsh scrubs or chemical exfoliants that can further irritate your skin. If you must exfoliate, opt for a gentle enzyme peel once a week.
Using harsh cleansers: Choose a gentle, hydrating cleanser that won’t strip your skin of its natural oils. Cetaphil Gentle Skin Cleanser is a reliable option.
Forgetting sunscreen: The sun’s rays are more intense at higher altitudes. Apply sunscreen liberally and reapply every two hours, especially if you’re skiing or spending time outdoors.
Ignoring your hands: Your hands are just as susceptible to dryness as your face. Apply hand cream frequently, especially after washing your hands.
Not adjusting your routine: What works in your humid home climate might not work in dry Taos. Be prepared to adapt your skincare routine to the local environment.
Let’s consider a real-world scenario. Imagine you’re visiting Taos for a week-long ski trip. You arrive with your usual skincare routine, but after a day on the slopes, your skin feels tight, dry, and itchy. Your lips are chapped and cracked. What do you do?
First, assess the damage. Are you experiencing mild dryness or severe irritation? If it’s mild, adjust your routine as described above: switch to a richer moisturizer, use a humidifier, and apply lip balm frequently. If it’s severe, consider consulting a local dermatologist. They can recommend prescription-strength treatments to address your specific needs.
Taos Skin Clinic offers a range of services, including consultations for dry skin and other altitude-related skin concerns.
Another challenge is finding the right products when you’re already in Taos. Don’t panic! As mentioned earlier, local pharmacies and grocery stores like Taos Pharmacy, Cid’s Food Market, Walgreens, and Smith’s Marketplace carry a wide range of moisturizing products. Ask the pharmacist for recommendations based on your skin type and concerns. They can often provide valuable insights and suggest local remedies.
Finally, remember that consistency is key. Don’t expect to see results overnight. It takes time for your skin to adjust to the new environment and for your skincare routine to take effect. Be patient, persistent, and proactive, and you’ll be able to enjoy your Taos adventure without sacrificing your skin’s health and radiance. So, pack your bags, hydrate diligently, and get ready to experience the beauty of Taos with healthy, happy skin.