Taos Air: Altitude Lies Cracking Summer Lips?
By Franklin Everett ShawForget the beach vacation. You’re heading to Taos, New Mexico, land of stunning landscapes and… surprisingly dry skin.
The crisp mountain air, combined with the altitude, can wreak havoc, especially on your lips. But don’t despair! This isn’t a reason to cancel your trip. Instead, let’s arm you with the knowledge and tools to combat that high-altitude dryness.
Flying into Taos Regional Airport (TSM) on Taos Air is a unique experience. The smaller planes and direct routes are a plus, but the rapid ascent to Taos’s elevation (nearly 7,000 feet!) can accelerate dehydration.
Why the cracked lips? It’s simple science. Lower humidity at higher altitudes means your skin loses moisture faster. The thin air also increases respiration, leading to more water loss through breathing.
Let’s talk pre-flight prep, especially if you’re coming from a humid climate like Houston, Texas, or Miami, Florida. These lower-altitude states have significantly higher humidity levels than Taos.
Hydrate aggressively: Start hydrating days before your flight. Don’t just chug water the morning of. Aim for at least eight glasses of water daily in the days leading up to your trip. Add electrolytes to your water for better absorption. Consider a product like Liquid I.V. or Nuun tablets.
Moisturize, moisturize, moisturize: Apply a thick, emollient moisturizer to your face and body several times a day. Focus on areas prone to dryness, like elbows, knees, and hands.
Avoid alcohol and caffeine: These are diuretics and will further dehydrate you.
Once you’re on that Taos Air flight, the battle against dryness continues. The cabin air is notoriously dry, exacerbating the effects of altitude.
Here’s your in-flight skincare routine:
Lip balm is your best friend: Apply a thick, occlusive lip balm constantly. Look for ingredients like beeswax, shea butter, or lanolin. Avoid balms with menthol or camphor, as these can actually dry out your lips in the long run.
Hydrating face mist: A hydrating face mist can provide instant relief. Look for mists containing hyaluronic acid or glycerin, which attract moisture to the skin.
Sheet mask (optional, but effective): If you’re feeling particularly ambitious, a hydrating sheet mask can be a game-changer. Just be prepared for some curious looks from your fellow passengers!
Avoid excessive talking: Talking increases respiration and, therefore, moisture loss.
Now, you’ve landed in Taos! You might already feel the dryness creeping in. Don’t panic.
Here’s your immediate post-flight strategy:
Lip Balm Emergency: Head straight to the Taos Regional Airport gift shop. They often carry locally made lip balms with natural ingredients like piñon pine resin or beeswax. These are specifically formulated for the dry climate. If they don’t have local options, look for brands like Aquaphor or Vaseline. These are simple, effective occlusives that create a barrier to prevent moisture loss.
Local Remedies: Taos is known for its natural remedies. Look for salves or lotions containing local herbs like lavender or chamomile, known for their soothing and moisturizing properties. Check out local shops in Taos Plaza for these unique finds.
Humidifier in your room: If your hotel or rental doesn’t have a humidifier, request one. This will add moisture back into the air and help combat dryness overnight.
Stay Hydrated: Continue to drink plenty of water throughout your stay.
Avoid licking your lips: This is a common mistake that actually makes dryness worse. Saliva evaporates quickly, taking moisture with it.
Common mistakes developers (and travelers!) make when dealing with this kind of problem:
Ignoring the problem until it’s too late: Waiting until your lips are already cracked and bleeding before taking action is a recipe for discomfort. Prevention is key.
Using the wrong products: Not all lip balms are created equal. Avoid products with drying ingredients like menthol or camphor.
Not drinking enough water: This is the most common mistake. You need to drink significantly more water at high altitude than you do at sea level.
Over-exfoliating: While exfoliating can help remove dead skin, overdoing it can strip your skin of its natural oils and make dryness worse.
Assuming all skin is the same: Everyone’s skin reacts differently to altitude. Pay attention to your own skin and adjust your routine accordingly.
Let’s get specific about lip balm recommendations. At the Taos Regional Airport, keep an eye out for:
Local Taos Brands: These are often made with natural ingredients and are specifically formulated for the dry climate. Ask the shopkeeper for their recommendations.
Aquaphor: A classic for a reason. It’s a simple, effective occlusive that creates a barrier to prevent moisture loss.
Vaseline: Another reliable occlusive. It’s inexpensive and readily available.
Burt’s Bees: Widely available and contains beeswax, a natural emollient.
Remember, combating altitude-induced dryness is an ongoing process. Be proactive, stay hydrated, and choose the right products. With a little preparation, you can enjoy the beauty of Taos without suffering from cracked lips. So, pack your bags, grab your lip balm, and get ready for an unforgettable adventure in the Land of Enchantment!