Taos Clay: Altitude Air Stealing Summer Skin?
By Franklin Everett ShawThe sun beats down, the air is thin, and your skin feels like parchment. You’re in Taos, New Mexico, a land of stunning beauty, but also a place where the environment can wreak havoc on your complexion, especially during the summer months. It’s not just the sun; it’s the altitude, the dryness, and the combination of both that creates a perfect storm for skin problems.
Taos, nestled high in the Sangre de Cristo Mountains, presents a unique set of challenges for skincare. The altitude, typically around 7,000 feet, means thinner air and less humidity. This leads to increased water loss from the skin, resulting in dryness and dehydration. The sun’s rays are also more intense at higher altitudes, increasing the risk of sunburn and sun damage.
So, how do you combat this “altitude air stealing summer skin” and keep your skin healthy and radiant in Taos? It’s all about understanding the specific challenges and building a skincare routine that addresses them.
First, let’s talk about the sun. The sun’s intensity increases by approximately 4% for every 1,000 feet of elevation. That means in Taos, you’re getting roughly 28% more UV radiation than you would at sea level. This increased exposure significantly elevates the risk of sunburn, premature aging, and skin cancer.
Solution: Sunscreen is non-negotiable. Choose a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher. Look for ingredients like zinc oxide or titanium dioxide, which provide physical barriers against the sun. Apply liberally and reapply every two hours, especially after swimming or sweating. Don’t forget often-missed areas like your ears, neck, and the tops of your feet.
Pitfall: Many people underestimate the importance of reapplying sunscreen. One application in the morning is not enough, especially when spending time outdoors.
Actionable Insight: Set a timer on your phone to remind you to reapply sunscreen every two hours. Keep a travel-sized sunscreen in your bag or car for easy access.
Next, consider the dryness. The low humidity in Taos pulls moisture from your skin, leaving it feeling tight, itchy, and flaky. This dryness can exacerbate existing skin conditions like eczema and psoriasis.
Solution: Hydration is key, both inside and out. Drink plenty of water throughout the day to keep your skin hydrated from within. Use a humidifier, especially at night, to add moisture back into the air. Choose skincare products that are specifically designed to hydrate and moisturize the skin.
Pitfall: Many people confuse dry skin with dehydrated skin. Dry skin lacks oil, while dehydrated skin lacks water. You need to address both to achieve optimal skin health.
Actionable Insight: Incorporate a hydrating serum into your skincare routine. Look for ingredients like hyaluronic acid, which can hold up to 1,000 times its weight in water. Apply the serum to damp skin after cleansing to lock in moisture.
Now, let’s build a protective skincare routine tailored for Taos’s unique climate. This routine focuses on hydration, sun protection, and gentle cleansing.
Cleanse: Use a gentle, hydrating cleanser that won’t strip your skin of its natural oils. Avoid harsh soaps or cleansers that contain sulfates. CeraVe Hydrating Facial Cleanser is a readily available and affordable option.
Tone: A hydrating toner can help to balance your skin’s pH and prepare it for the next steps in your routine. Look for toners that contain ingredients like rosewater or aloe vera. Thayers Alcohol-Free Rose Petal Witch Hazel Toner is a popular choice.
Serum: Apply a hydrating serum containing hyaluronic acid or other humectants. The Ordinary Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5 is a budget-friendly and effective option.
Moisturize: Choose a rich, emollient moisturizer to lock in moisture and protect your skin from the elements. Look for ingredients like ceramides, shea butter, or squalane. Vanicream Moisturizing Cream is a fragrance-free and non-comedogenic option that’s suitable for sensitive skin.
Sunscreen: Apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher every morning, even on cloudy days. EltaMD UV Clear Broad-Spectrum SPF 46 is a dermatologist-recommended sunscreen that’s lightweight and non-greasy.
Lip Balm: Don’t forget your lips! The thin skin on your lips is particularly vulnerable to dryness and sun damage. Use a lip balm with SPF throughout the day. Aquaphor Lip Repair is a classic and effective choice.
Challenge: Finding the right products can be overwhelming. Start with a basic routine and gradually add products as needed. Pay attention to how your skin responds to each product and adjust accordingly.
Actionable Insight: Visit a local pharmacy or skincare store in Taos, like Taos Pharmacy or the natural food stores, and ask for recommendations based on your skin type and concerns. They can provide personalized advice and help you find products that are well-suited for the local climate.
Beyond skincare products, consider these lifestyle adjustments to further protect your skin in Taos:
Wear protective clothing: Cover up with long sleeves, pants, and a wide-brimmed hat when spending time outdoors.
Seek shade: Avoid prolonged sun exposure, especially during the peak hours of 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Stay hydrated: Drink plenty of water throughout the day. Carry a reusable water bottle with you and refill it often.
Avoid hot showers: Hot water can strip your skin of its natural oils, exacerbating dryness. Opt for lukewarm showers instead.
Use a humidifier: A humidifier can help to add moisture back into the air, especially during the dry winter months.
Common Mistake: Neglecting to protect your skin on cloudy days. UV rays can penetrate clouds, so it’s important to wear sunscreen even when the sun isn’t shining.
Value: By implementing these strategies, you can enjoy the beauty of Taos without sacrificing the health and radiance of your skin. Remember, consistency is key. Stick to your skincare routine and make these lifestyle adjustments a habit.
Living in or visiting Taos doesn’t have to mean battling dry, sun-damaged skin. By understanding the unique environmental challenges and adopting a proactive skincare approach, you can keep your skin healthy, hydrated, and protected, allowing you to fully embrace the beauty of this high-altitude haven.