Taos Air: Altitude Stealing Summer Hair Youth?
By Franklin Everett ShawThe crisp mountain air, the thrill of the slopes, the charm of a Colorado summer – it’s all undeniably alluring. But for those of us who frequently hop on a Taos Air flight to Telluride or other high-altitude havens, there’s a hidden beauty battle brewing: the war against dry, damaged hair. The combination of cabin pressure, high-altitude dryness, summer sun, and chlorine pools can wreak havoc on your locks.
Flying, especially on smaller regional jets like those used by Taos Air, often means lower humidity levels in the cabin. This, coupled with the already arid climate of Colorado, creates a perfect storm for hair dehydration. Add in the summer sun, which bleaches and weakens hair, and the chlorine from swimming pools, which strips away natural oils, and you’ve got a recipe for brittle, lifeless strands.
So, how do we combat this triple threat and keep our hair looking its best while enjoying the Colorado lifestyle? It’s all about a strategic pre- and post-flight hair care routine, tailored for the unique challenges of high-altitude travel and summer elements.
Pre-Flight Prep: Fortifying Your Follicles
Think of your hair like a plant: it needs moisture to thrive. Before you even step foot on that Taos Air flight, you need to hydrate and protect.
Deep Conditioning Treatment: A week before your flight, indulge in a deep conditioning treatment. Look for products containing ingredients like shea butter, argan oil, or coconut oil. These penetrate the hair shaft, providing intense hydration and creating a protective barrier. A great option is the Shea Moisture Manuka Honey & Mafura Oil Intensive Hydration Hair Masque, readily available at most drugstores in Colorado.
Leave-In Conditioner: On the day of your flight, apply a generous amount of leave-in conditioner. This will act as a shield against the dry cabin air. Focus on the ends of your hair, as they are the most prone to damage. Consider It’s a 10 Miracle Leave-In Product, a popular choice known for its detangling and moisturizing properties.
Protective Hairstyle: Opt for a hairstyle that minimizes friction and exposure. Braids, buns, or even a simple low ponytail can help prevent breakage and tangles. Avoid tight hairstyles that can put stress on your scalp.
Silk or Satin Scarf: Wrap your hair in a silk or satin scarf during the flight. This will reduce friction and prevent moisture loss. These materials are less absorbent than cotton, helping to retain your hair’s natural oils.
In-Flight Hydration: A Mid-Air Moisture Boost
While you can’t completely eliminate the drying effects of the cabin air, you can take steps to minimize the damage during your Taos Air flight.
Hydrate Internally: Drink plenty of water throughout the flight. Dehydration affects your entire body, including your hair. Aim for at least eight ounces of water per hour.
Hydrating Mist (Optional): If you’re particularly prone to dry hair, consider bringing a small travel-sized hydrating mist. Look for products containing ingredients like aloe vera or hyaluronic acid. Lightly spritz your hair every few hours to replenish moisture. Be mindful of TSA regulations regarding liquid sizes.
Post-Flight Recovery: Rejuvenating Your Locks
Once you’ve landed in Telluride or returned home, it’s time to focus on repairing any damage and restoring moisture.
Gentle Cleansing: Use a sulfate-free shampoo to cleanse your hair without stripping away its natural oils. Sulfates can be harsh and drying, especially for already damaged hair. Acure Organics Shampoo is a good sulfate-free option available at many natural food stores in Colorado.
Replenishing Conditioner: Follow up with a rich, moisturizing conditioner. Focus on applying the conditioner to the mid-lengths and ends of your hair. Let it sit for a few minutes to allow it to penetrate deeply.
Apple Cider Vinegar Rinse (Optional): An apple cider vinegar rinse can help restore your hair’s pH balance and remove any buildup. Mix one part apple cider vinegar with three parts water and pour it over your hair after shampooing. Rinse thoroughly.
Hair Oil Treatment: Apply a small amount of hair oil to damp or dry hair. Argan oil, jojoba oil, or coconut oil are all excellent choices. Focus on the ends of your hair to seal in moisture and prevent split ends. Moroccanoil Treatment is a popular and effective option.
Limit Heat Styling: Give your hair a break from heat styling tools like blow dryers, curling irons, and straighteners. Heat can further damage and dry out your hair. If you must use heat, apply a heat protectant spray beforehand.
Summer Hair Survival: Sun and Chlorine Protection
The Colorado summer brings its own set of challenges for hair health. Sun exposure and chlorine can both wreak havoc on your locks.
Sun Protection: Just like your skin, your hair needs protection from the sun. Wear a hat or scarf when spending extended periods outdoors. You can also use a hair sunscreen spray.
Chlorine Defense: Before swimming, wet your hair and apply a leave-in conditioner or hair oil. This will create a barrier that prevents chlorine from penetrating the hair shaft. After swimming, rinse your hair thoroughly with fresh water. Use a clarifying shampoo once a week to remove any chlorine buildup.
Locally Sourced Solutions: Colorado is home to many companies that produce natural and organic hair care products. Look for products containing ingredients like Rocky Mountain spring water, lavender, or juniper. Supporting local businesses is a great way to keep your hair healthy and contribute to the community.
Common Pitfalls and How to Avoid Them
Over-Washing: Washing your hair too frequently can strip away its natural oils and lead to dryness. Aim to wash your hair only two or three times a week.
Using Hot Water: Hot water can damage your hair and scalp. Use lukewarm water when washing your hair.
Rough Towel Drying: Rubbing your hair vigorously with a towel can cause breakage. Gently pat your hair dry or use a microfiber towel.
Ignoring Split Ends: Split ends can travel up the hair shaft and cause further damage. Get regular trims to remove split ends and keep your hair healthy.
Neglecting Your Scalp: A healthy scalp is essential for healthy hair growth. Massage your scalp regularly to improve circulation and promote hair growth.
By implementing these pre- and post-flight hair care routines, and by taking steps to protect your hair from the summer sun and chlorine, you can maintain healthy, hydrated, and youthful-looking hair, even with frequent trips on Taos Air to the beautiful, but demanding, high-altitude destinations of Colorado. Don’t let dry, damaged hair hold you back from enjoying all that Colorado has to offer. Embrace the adventure, and keep your hair looking its best!