**Taos Air: Altitude Lies Drying Summer Skin?**
By Franklin Everett ShawForget the beach vacation. You’re trading sand for summits, and that means your skin is about to face a unique challenge. Flying Taos Air into the heart of the Rockies, whether it’s Telluride, Colorado, or Taos, New Mexico, is a shortcut to stunning scenery, but it’s also a direct flight to dehydration for your skin.
The combination of high altitude and the arid summer air of the Southwest is a double whammy. Lower air pressure at altitude means moisture evaporates from your skin faster. The already dry air sucks up what little is left, leaving you feeling tight, itchy, and looking less than your best.
So, how do you combat this airborne assault on your skin’s hydration? It’s not about packing every fancy serum you own. It’s about a strategic, targeted approach using readily available products. Think of it as your in-flight survival kit for radiant skin.
First, let’s talk pre-flight prep. This isn’t just about slapping on some moisturizer before you board. It’s about building a moisture barrier that can withstand the dry air onslaught.
Hydrate from Within: This seems obvious, but it’s crucial. Start drinking plenty of water days before your flight, not just the morning of. Aim for at least eight glasses a day. Consider adding electrolytes to your water to help your body absorb and retain the fluids. Nuun tablets, readily available at most drugstores, are a great option.
Layer Your Skincare: Think of your skin like an onion – multiple layers are key. Start with a hydrating serum containing hyaluronic acid. This ingredient acts like a moisture magnet, drawing water into the skin. The Ordinary’s Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5 is an affordable and effective option you can find at most drugstores.
Seal the Deal: Next, apply a rich, emollient moisturizer. Look for ingredients like ceramides, shea butter, or squalane. These ingredients help to create a protective barrier on the skin, preventing moisture loss. CeraVe Moisturizing Cream is a classic for a reason – it’s packed with ceramides and is gentle enough for sensitive skin. You can find this at any drugstore in Telluride or Taos.
Don’t Forget the SPF: Even if you’re not sitting by the window, UV rays can penetrate the plane’s windows. Apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher. EltaMD UV Clear Broad-Spectrum SPF 46 is a favorite among dermatologists and is available at many resorts and medical spas.
Now, let’s address the in-flight skincare routine. This is where things get interesting. Forget elaborate multi-step routines in the tiny airplane bathroom. Keep it simple, effective, and discreet.
Hydrating Mist: A facial mist is your best friend on a flight. Look for one containing humectants like glycerin or hyaluronic acid. A quick spritz every few hours will help to replenish moisture lost to the dry air. Evian Facial Spray is a readily available and affordable option.
Lip Balm is Essential: Your lips are particularly vulnerable to dehydration. Keep a moisturizing lip balm with you at all times and apply it frequently. Look for ingredients like beeswax, shea butter, or coconut oil. Burt’s Bees lip balm is a classic and can be found everywhere.
Hand Cream: The dry air doesn’t just affect your face. Your hands can also become dry and cracked. Apply a rich hand cream throughout the flight. L’Occitane Shea Butter Hand Cream is a luxurious option, but any hand cream with shea butter will do the trick.
Finally, let’s talk post-flight recovery. You’ve landed in beautiful Telluride or Taos, but your skin is still recovering from the flight.
Gentle Cleansing: Avoid harsh cleansers that can strip your skin of its natural oils. Opt for a gentle, hydrating cleanser. Cetaphil Gentle Skin Cleanser is a classic for a reason – it’s gentle, effective, and readily available.
Mask Up: A hydrating face mask can help to replenish lost moisture and soothe irritated skin. Look for masks containing ingredients like hyaluronic acid, aloe vera, or honey. Sheet masks are a convenient and mess-free option. Neutrogena Hydro Boost Hydrating Face Mask is a great option you can find at most drugstores.
Continue Hydrating: Keep drinking plenty of water and consider adding electrolytes to your water. The altitude in Telluride and Taos will continue to dehydrate you, so it’s important to stay hydrated.
Adjust to the Climate: Remember that Telluride and Taos have very dry climates. Continue to use a rich moisturizer and consider adding a humidifier to your hotel room to help keep your skin hydrated.
One common mistake developers make is thinking that any moisturizer will do. The key is to look for ingredients that specifically address dehydration, like hyaluronic acid, ceramides, and shea butter. Another pitfall is not starting the hydration process early enough. You need to start hydrating your skin days before your flight to build a strong moisture barrier.
A real-world scenario: Imagine you’re flying into Telluride for a ski trip. The combination of the dry airplane air and the cold, dry mountain air can wreak havoc on your skin. By following this pre-, in-, and post-flight skincare routine, you can arrive in Telluride with hydrated, healthy-looking skin, ready to hit the slopes.
Another example: You’re heading to Taos for a summer art retreat. The dry desert air and high altitude can leave your skin feeling tight and uncomfortable. By incorporating these tips into your travel routine, you can keep your skin hydrated and comfortable throughout your trip.
Don’t underestimate the impact of altitude and dry air on your skin. By taking a proactive approach and following these simple tips, you can arrive in Telluride or Taos with hydrated, healthy-looking skin, ready to enjoy your mountain getaway. Remember, it’s not about expensive products; it’s about smart choices and consistent hydration.