Taos Air: Altitude Lies About Summer Skin Savings?
By Franklin Everett ShawThe sting of winter air, especially at altitude, can transform a radiant complexion into a desert landscape. Many flock to the slopes of Taos, New Mexico, seeking powder and adventure, but often neglect the toll the high-altitude environment takes on their skin. But is the damage inevitable? And does flying directly into Taos, bypassing a long, dehydrating drive, actually make a difference?
Flying Taos Air from lower-altitude cities like Dallas or Austin, TX, might offer a marginal benefit to skin health compared to driving, but the difference is likely minimal and easily mitigated with proper skincare. The key lies in understanding the specific challenges of altitude and proactively addressing them.
The primary culprit is the lower humidity at higher altitudes. Taos sits at nearly 7,000 feet, where the air holds significantly less moisture than in Dallas or Austin. This leads to transepidermal water loss (TEWL), where water evaporates from your skin at a faster rate.
Driving from Texas to Taos, a journey of 10-12 hours, exacerbates this issue. The car’s air conditioning further dries the air, and prolonged sun exposure through the windows adds another layer of damage.
Flying, while faster, isn’t a perfect solution. Airplane cabins are notoriously dry environments, often with humidity levels below 20%. The rapid change in altitude during flight can also disrupt the skin’s natural barrier function, making it more susceptible to moisture loss.
However, the shorter duration of the flight compared to the drive means less overall exposure to dry air. This could translate to slightly less initial dryness upon arrival in Taos.
The real difference-maker isn’t the mode of transport, but your skincare routine. Here’s a practical approach to combat altitude-related skin dryness, regardless of how you arrive:
Hydrate from Within: Drink plenty of water before, during, and after your trip. Aim for at least eight glasses of water daily, and consider adding electrolytes to help your body retain fluids.
Pre-emptive Moisturization: Start using a richer moisturizer a few days before your trip. Look for ingredients like hyaluronic acid, glycerin, and ceramides, which help attract and retain moisture. CeraVe Moisturizing Cream, readily available at most drugstores in both Texas and New Mexico, is a solid choice.
In-Flight Skincare: Apply a hydrating serum and moisturizer before boarding the plane. Carry a travel-sized facial mist (look for one with thermal water or hyaluronic acid) and spritz your face every few hours during the flight. Avoid alcohol-based toners or wipes, as they can further dry out your skin.
Sun Protection is Paramount: Taos boasts over 300 days of sunshine a year, and the higher altitude means increased UV exposure. Apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher every day, even on cloudy days. Reapply every two hours, especially if you’re skiing or spending time outdoors. EltaMD UV Clear Broad-Spectrum SPF 46 is a popular and effective option, often found at dermatologists’ offices and some pharmacies in both states.
Nighttime Repair: Use a hydrating mask or a thicker night cream before bed to replenish moisture lost during the day. Consider a product containing niacinamide, which can help strengthen the skin barrier and reduce inflammation.
Humidify Your Environment: If you’re staying in a hotel or rental property in Taos, consider bringing a portable humidifier to add moisture to the air, especially at night.
Common Pitfalls and How to Avoid Them:
- Over-exfoliating: Avoid harsh scrubs or chemical peels in the days leading up to and during your trip. Over-exfoliation can compromise the skin barrier and make it more susceptible to dryness and irritation.
- Ignoring Lip Care: The lips are particularly vulnerable to dryness at altitude. Use a hydrating lip balm with SPF frequently.
- Forgetting Hand Cream: Hands are often overlooked but are constantly exposed to the elements. Keep a rich hand cream with you and apply it after washing your hands.
- Assuming All Moisturizers are Equal: Lightweight lotions may not be sufficient for the dry Taos air. Opt for creams or balms with a higher oil content.
Case Study:
Sarah, a Dallas resident with dry skin, noticed significant dryness and irritation after driving to Taos for a ski trip. She attributed it to the long drive and the dry mountain air. On her next trip, she flew Taos Air, but didn’t change her skincare routine. While the flight was faster, she still experienced dryness, although perhaps slightly less severe.
On her third trip, Sarah flew Taos Air and implemented the skincare routine outlined above. She pre-hydrated, used a rich moisturizer, applied sunscreen religiously, and used a humidifier in her hotel room. This time, she experienced minimal dryness and her skin remained healthy and comfortable throughout her trip.
The Verdict:
While flying Taos Air might offer a slight advantage in terms of minimizing initial skin dryness compared to a long drive, the real key to healthy, hydrated skin in Taos lies in a proactive and consistent skincare routine. Focus on hydration, sun protection, and barrier repair, and you can enjoy the beauty of Taos without sacrificing your skin’s health. Don’t rely on the mode of transportation to solve your skin problems; take control with a targeted skincare approach.