**Taos Air: Altitude Lies Crashing Vaseline's Youth?**
By Franklin Everett ShawEver stepped off a plane in Taos, New Mexico, feeling like your skin aged a decade in the air? You’re not alone. The combination of low humidity, high altitude, and recycled cabin air on Taos Air flights creates a perfect storm for dehydration, leaving your skin parched and irritated. But don’t resign yourself to a flaky fate. This guide provides a science-backed, Taos-specific hydration strategy to combat the desert air and arrive feeling refreshed, not ravaged.
Flying into Taos (elevation 6,969 feet) presents unique challenges. The air is significantly drier than at sea level, and the lower oxygen levels can further stress your skin. This means standard travel hydration tips often fall short. We need a targeted approach.
First, let’s understand the science. At altitude, your body loses moisture faster through respiration and perspiration. The dry cabin air exacerbates this, pulling moisture from your skin. This leads to decreased skin elasticity, increased fine lines, and a generally dull complexion.
Pre-Flight Prep: The Taos Tactic
Hydration starts before you even board the plane. Don’t just chug water at the gate.
Electrolyte Loading: Begin hydrating with electrolytes 24 hours before your flight. Look for electrolyte powders available at Taos retailers like Cid’s Food Market or Taos Market. Specifically, seek out products containing sodium, potassium, and magnesium. These minerals help your body retain water more effectively. Avoid sugary sports drinks; opt for low-sugar or sugar-free options.
Hyaluronic Acid Serum: Apply a hyaluronic acid serum to your face and neck the night before your flight. Hyaluronic acid is a humectant, meaning it draws moisture from the air into your skin. In Taos, where the air is already dry, it’s crucial to “feed” the hyaluronic acid with moisture. Follow with a rich moisturizer. You can find suitable serums at Taos Pharmacy or online for local pickup.
Internal Hydration: Increase your water intake gradually in the days leading up to your flight. Aim for at least eight glasses of water daily. Add a squeeze of lemon or lime for extra electrolytes and flavor.
In-Flight Defense: The Moisture Mission
The cabin environment is your enemy. Combat it with a strategic skincare routine.
Hydrating Mist: Pack a travel-sized hydrating mist containing ingredients like rosewater or glycerin. Spritz your face every hour during the flight. Rosewater is readily available at Taos Herb Company and offers anti-inflammatory benefits.
Sheet Mask Power: Don’t be shy! Apply a hydrating sheet mask mid-flight. Look for masks containing hyaluronic acid, ceramides, or aloe vera. Dispose of the mask discreetly after use.
Lip Care is Key: The thin skin on your lips is particularly vulnerable. Apply a thick, emollient lip balm frequently. Look for balms containing beeswax, shea butter, or coconut oil. These are available at most drugstores in Taos.
Avoid Alcohol and Caffeine: These are diuretics, meaning they promote water loss. Stick to water or herbal tea during your flight.
The Water Bottle is Your Weapon: Bring an empty water bottle through security and fill it up after. Aim to drink at least one liter of water during your flight.
Post-Flight Recovery: The Taos Revival
Rehydration continues after you land.
Immediate Rehydration: Drink a large glass of water with electrolytes as soon as you disembark.
Gentle Cleansing: Avoid harsh cleansers that can strip your skin of its natural oils. Use a gentle, hydrating cleanser.
Moisturize, Moisturize, Moisturize: Apply a thick layer of moisturizer to your face and body. Look for creams containing ceramides, which help repair the skin barrier.
DIY Taos Hydration Mask: Create a simple hydrating mask using locally sourced ingredients. Mix plain yogurt (available at Taos Diner) with a teaspoon of honey and a few drops of olive oil. Apply to your face for 15 minutes and rinse with warm water. Yogurt contains lactic acid, which gently exfoliates and hydrates.
Humidifier Help: If you’re staying in Taos for an extended period, consider using a humidifier in your hotel room or rental. This will help increase the humidity levels and prevent further dehydration.
Common Pitfalls and How to Avoid Them
Over-Exfoliating: Avoid using harsh exfoliants before or after your flight. This can further irritate dry skin.
Relying Solely on Water: Water alone isn’t enough. You need electrolytes to help your body retain that water.
Ignoring Your Lips: Your lips are often the first to show signs of dehydration. Don’t forget to protect them.
Thinking One Size Fits All: Everyone’s skin is different. Adjust your routine based on your individual needs.
Product Recommendations (Taos Edition)
Electrolyte Powders: LMNT (often found at local health food stores), Liquid I.V. (available at Cid’s).
Hyaluronic Acid Serums: The Ordinary Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5 (available online for local pickup), Neutrogena Hydro Boost Hydrating Serum (available at Taos Pharmacy).
Hydrating Mists: Mario Badescu Facial Spray with Aloe, Herbs and Rosewater (available at Ulta in Santa Fe, a short drive from Taos), Evian Facial Spray (available at most drugstores).
Lip Balms: Burt’s Bees Beeswax Lip Balm (widely available), Aquaphor Lip Repair (available at Taos Pharmacy).
Moisturizers: CeraVe Moisturizing Cream (available at Taos Pharmacy), Vanicream Moisturizing Cream (available at Taos Pharmacy).
By implementing these strategies, tailored specifically for the Taos environment, you can minimize the skin-drying effects of flying and arrive ready to enjoy the beauty of Northern New Mexico, feeling refreshed and hydrated. Don’t let the altitude get you down – or dry you out!