Taos Air: Altitude Lies Crushing Summer Skin?

By Franklin Everett Shaw

November 30, 2025

Forget the beach vacation. Ditch the crowded theme parks. This winter, you’re heading to Taos, New Mexico, courtesy of Taos Air’s convenient direct flights from Texas. But before you pack your skis and sense of adventure, let’s talk about something crucial: your skin.

The allure of the Sangre de Cristo Mountains and the charm of Taos Pueblo are undeniable. However, the rapid altitude change from Texas cities like Dallas or Austin, coupled with the intense New Mexico sun, can wreak havoc on your skin. We’re not talking about a little dryness; we’re talking about accelerated aging, painful sunburns, and a complexion that looks like it’s aged a decade in a week.

Here’s the truth: your skin is about to face a triple threat: altitude, sun, and dryness. Let’s break down each element and, more importantly, how to combat them.

First, altitude. Taos sits at a staggering 6,969 feet above sea level. That’s a significant jump from Dallas (around 400 feet) or Austin (around 500 feet). This sudden change in altitude means lower oxygen levels and decreased humidity. Lower oxygen means your skin cells receive less oxygen, hindering their ability to repair and regenerate. Decreased humidity? That translates to severe dryness. Your skin will be begging for moisture.

Second, the sun. At higher altitudes, the atmosphere is thinner, filtering less UV radiation. This means you’re exposed to significantly more harmful UV rays than you are back in Texas. Think of it this way: for every 1,000 feet you ascend, UV radiation increases by approximately 4-5%. Taos is almost 7,000 feet higher than Dallas. Do the math. You’re essentially basting yourself in UV rays.

Third, the dryness. New Mexico is a desert climate. Combine that with the altitude, and you have a recipe for extremely dry skin. This dryness can lead to flaking, itching, and even cracking, making you more susceptible to sun damage and premature aging.

So, what’s a Texan to do? Panic? No. Prepare.

Here’s your Taos-specific skincare survival guide:

1. Hydration, Hydration, Hydration: This isn’t just about drinking water (though that’s crucial too). You need to aggressively hydrate your skin topically.

   • Hyaluronic Acid Serum: This is your new best friend. Apply it twice daily, morning and night, on damp skin. Hyaluronic acid is a humectant, meaning it draws moisture from the air into your skin. But here’s the catch: in a dry environment like Taos, it can actually pull moisture out of your skin if not used correctly. Always follow it with a rich moisturizer to seal in the hydration. A great option is The Ordinary Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5. It’s affordable and effective.
   • Rich Moisturizer: Look for a moisturizer containing ceramides, shea butter, or squalane. These ingredients help to repair your skin’s moisture barrier, preventing water loss. CeraVe Moisturizing Cream is a solid, budget-friendly choice. For something more luxurious, consider Drunk Elephant Lala Retro Whipped Cream.
   • Facial Oil: Apply a facial oil over your moisturizer, especially at night. This creates an occlusive barrier, further preventing moisture from escaping. Rosehip oil or argan oil are excellent choices. Pai Rosehip BioRegenerate Oil is a fantastic option.
   • Humidifier: Consider bringing a small, portable humidifier for your hotel room. This will add moisture to the air, helping to combat the dryness.

2. Sun Protection is Non-Negotiable: We’re not talking about a light dusting of SPF 15. You need serious sun protection.

   • Broad-Spectrum SPF 50+: This is the minimum. Apply it liberally and reapply every two hours, especially if you’re skiing or spending time outdoors. Don’t forget your ears, neck, and the back of your hands. EltaMD UV Clear Broad-Spectrum SPF 46 is a dermatologist favorite for a reason. It’s lightweight, non-greasy, and suitable for sensitive skin.
   • Protective Clothing: Wear a wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses. Consider wearing long sleeves and pants, especially during peak sun hours (10 am to 4 pm).
   • Lip Balm with SPF: Your lips are particularly vulnerable to sun damage. Use a lip balm with SPF 30 or higher.

3. Gentle Cleansing: Harsh cleansers can strip your skin of its natural oils, exacerbating dryness.

   • Cream or Oil Cleanser: Opt for a gentle cream or oil cleanser that won’t dry out your skin. Cetaphil Gentle Skin Cleanser is a classic for a reason.
   • Avoid Exfoliating: Skip the harsh scrubs and chemical exfoliants while you’re in Taos. Your skin is already under stress, and exfoliation can further irritate it.

4. Address Altitude Sickness (and its Skin Effects): Altitude sickness can manifest in various ways, including headaches, nausea, and fatigue. These symptoms can indirectly affect your skin by causing dehydration and stress.

   • Acclimatize Gradually: If possible, spend a day or two at a lower altitude before heading to Taos.
   • Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water.
   • Avoid Alcohol and Caffeine: These can dehydrate you.
   • Consider Altitude Sickness Medication: Talk to your doctor about whether altitude sickness medication is right for you.

Debunking Skincare Myths:

• Myth: “I don’t need sunscreen on cloudy days.” Wrong. UV rays penetrate clouds.
• Myth: “Darker skin tones don’t need sunscreen.” Everyone needs sunscreen, regardless of skin tone.
• Myth: “My makeup has SPF, so I’m protected.” Makeup with SPF is not enough. You need a dedicated sunscreen applied liberally.

Common Mistakes and Pitfalls:

• Not starting early enough: Begin your hydrating skincare routine a week or two before your trip.
• Using the wrong products: Heavy, greasy products can clog pores and lead to breakouts. Opt for lightweight, hydrating formulas.
• Forgetting to reapply sunscreen: This is crucial, especially if you’re sweating or swimming.
• Ignoring your body: Your body skin needs hydration too. Use a rich body lotion after showering.

Real-World Scenario:

Imagine you’re flying from Dallas to Taos for a ski trip. You arrive feeling excited but quickly notice your skin feels tight and dry. You hit the slopes the next day, forgetting to reapply sunscreen after lunch. By evening, your face is red, burning, and feels like sandpaper. You’ve made all the classic mistakes.

The Solution:

Immediately apply a soothing, hydrating mask. Look for ingredients like aloe vera, chamomile, or colloidal oatmeal. Avoid harsh cleansers and exfoliants. Focus on gentle hydration and sun protection for the rest of your trip. Learn from your mistakes and be more diligent with your skincare routine.

Taos is a magical place, but it demands respect, especially when it comes to your skin. By following this guide, you can enjoy your trip without sacrificing your complexion. So, pack your bags, grab your sunscreen, and get ready to experience the beauty of Taos, knowing you’re armed with the knowledge to keep your skin healthy and radiant. Don’t let the altitude and sun steal your glow.