Taos Clay: Altitude Sun Stealing Skin Enzymes?
By Franklin Everett ShawThe New Mexico sun, beating down on the high desert, isn’t just hot; it’s intense. We slather on sunscreen, often without a second thought, trusting the promises on the bottle. But what if there was a more natural, locally-sourced alternative, something that’s been under our feet all along? Could the very earth beneath Taos, New Mexico, hold the key to sun protection?
Let’s dig into the potential of Taos clay as a natural sunblock.
Taos clay, known for its reddish hue and fine texture, is abundant in the region. It’s been used for centuries in traditional adobe construction and pottery. But could its properties extend to skincare, specifically sun protection? The idea isn’t as far-fetched as it sounds. Clay, in general, is known for its absorbent properties. It can draw out impurities and oils from the skin. Some believe this absorbent quality could also extend to absorbing damaging enzymes triggered by UV radiation.
The science behind this claim is still emerging, and it’s crucial to acknowledge that Taos clay is NOT a replacement for conventional sunscreen with a proven SPF rating. However, the mineral composition of clay, particularly its high silica and iron oxide content, could offer some level of protection. Silica is known to reflect light, and iron oxide is a pigment that can absorb certain wavelengths of light.
Think of it like this: you’re building a house. Sunscreen is the reinforced concrete foundation, providing a strong, reliable barrier. Taos clay, in this analogy, is like adding extra insulation – it might offer additional protection, but it’s not the primary structural component.
So, how can you experiment with Taos clay as a potential sun protectant? Here’s a DIY recipe for a clay mask and a potential sun protectant application, keeping in mind that this is for experimental purposes only and should not replace proven sun protection methods:
Taos Clay Mask:
Ingredients:
- 2 tablespoons Taos clay powder (easily found at local art supply stores or online retailers specializing in New Mexico products).
- 1 tablespoon raw, local honey (look for honey from Taos or nearby areas like Dixon or Penasco).
- 1 tablespoon plain yogurt (full-fat, if possible, for added moisture).
- A few drops of lavender essential oil (optional, for fragrance and potential skin benefits).
Instructions:
- In a non-metallic bowl, combine the clay powder, honey, and yogurt.
- Mix well until you achieve a smooth, paste-like consistency.
- Add lavender essential oil, if desired.
- Apply a thin, even layer to your face, avoiding the eye area.
- Let the mask dry for 10-15 minutes.
- Rinse thoroughly with warm water and pat your skin dry.
This mask can be used 1-2 times per week to help draw out impurities and potentially soothe sun-exposed skin.
Taos Clay Sun Protectant (Experimental - Use with Caution):
Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon Taos clay powder.
- 1 tablespoon aloe vera gel (look for pure aloe vera gel with minimal additives).
- 1 teaspoon jojoba oil (or another carrier oil like almond or avocado oil).
- Optional: A pinch of zinc oxide powder (for added sun protection – use with extreme caution and research proper usage and safety precautions).
Instructions:
- In a non-metallic bowl, combine the clay powder, aloe vera gel, and jojoba oil.
- Mix well until you achieve a smooth, spreadable consistency.
- If using zinc oxide, add a very small pinch and mix thoroughly. Important: Zinc oxide can be harmful if inhaled or ingested. Use a mask and gloves when handling it.
- Apply a very thin layer to a small area of skin (like the back of your hand) and monitor for any adverse reactions for 24 hours.
- If no reaction occurs, you can experiment with applying it to a small area of sun-exposed skin.
- Reapply frequently (every 1-2 hours) and always use in conjunction with other sun protection measures like hats, sunglasses, and protective clothing.
Important Considerations:
- Patch Test: Always perform a patch test before applying any new skincare product to your entire face or body.
- Clay Quality: Ensure you’re using high-quality, pure Taos clay powder. Avoid clay that may be contaminated with other substances.
- Sunscreen is Essential: This DIY sun protectant is not a replacement for conventional sunscreen. Use it as a supplemental measure only.
- Altitude: The high altitude of Taos (around 7,000 feet) means you’re exposed to significantly more UV radiation. Don’t rely solely on clay for sun protection at this altitude.
- Skin Sensitivity: Clay can be drying, so be sure to moisturize your skin after using a clay mask or sun protectant.
Challenges and Pitfalls:
- Inconsistent Results: The effectiveness of Taos clay as a sun protectant can vary depending on the clay’s mineral composition, your skin type, and the intensity of the sun.
- Messiness: Clay can be messy to apply and remove.
- Drying Effect: Clay can dry out the skin, especially in the dry New Mexico climate.
- Lack of SPF Rating: DIY sunscreens, including those made with clay, do not have an SPF rating. This makes it difficult to determine their level of protection.
- Zinc Oxide Safety: If you choose to add zinc oxide, be extremely careful when handling it. Inhaling zinc oxide can cause respiratory problems.
Overcoming the Challenges:
- Combine with Sunscreen: The best approach is to use Taos clay as a supplemental measure in conjunction with a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher.
- Moisturize Regularly: Use a hydrating moisturizer after using clay products to combat dryness.
- Start Slowly: Begin with a small amount of clay and gradually increase the amount as needed.
- Listen to Your Skin: Pay attention to how your skin reacts to clay and adjust your usage accordingly.
- Research Thoroughly: If you’re considering adding zinc oxide, research proper usage and safety precautions thoroughly.
Real-World Application:
Imagine you’re hiking in the Taos Ski Valley. You’ve applied your regular sunscreen, but you want an extra layer of protection. You could apply a thin layer of the Taos clay sun protectant to your face and neck, knowing that it’s not a replacement for sunscreen but may offer some additional benefit. Remember to reapply both the clay mixture and your sunscreen frequently throughout the day.
Comparing to Conventional Sunscreens:
Conventional sunscreens are rigorously tested and regulated to ensure their effectiveness and safety. They provide a specific SPF rating, which indicates the level of protection they offer against UVB rays. Taos clay, on the other hand, lacks this rigorous testing and SPF rating. Therefore, it’s crucial to prioritize conventional sunscreens for reliable sun protection.
In conclusion, while the idea of using locally-sourced Taos clay as a natural sunblock is intriguing, it’s essential to approach it with caution and a healthy dose of skepticism. Taos clay may offer some potential benefits for the skin, but it’s not a replacement for conventional sunscreen. Use it as a supplemental measure only, and always prioritize proven sun protection methods, especially in the intense New Mexico sun. Embrace the natural resources of Taos, but do so responsibly and with your skin’s health as your top priority.