**Taos Saunas: Altitude Lies Stealing Summer Youth?**

By Franklin Everett Shaw

November 9, 2025

The dry desert air of Taos, New Mexico, whispers secrets of ancient pueblos and sun-baked landscapes. But it also holds a less romantic truth: it can wreak havoc on your skin. Now, throw in the increasing popularity of saunas in this high-altitude haven, and you’ve got a recipe for accelerated aging if you’re not careful. It’s time to ditch the generic wellness advice and get specific about how to enjoy the benefits of saunas in Taos without turning into a prune.

Sauna use, while generally beneficial for detoxification and relaxation, presents unique challenges in high-altitude environments like Taos (elevation 6,969 feet). The combination of dry air, increased UV radiation, and the dehydrating effects of sauna heat can significantly impact skin health and overall well-being.

Let’s break down the science. At higher altitudes, the air is thinner, meaning less oxygen and lower humidity. This leads to increased transepidermal water loss (TEWL), where your skin loses moisture at a faster rate. Saunas exacerbate this process, drawing even more moisture from the skin and potentially leading to dryness, irritation, and premature wrinkles.

Furthermore, Taos experiences intense sunlight. UV radiation is a primary culprit in skin aging, breaking down collagen and elastin, the proteins that keep skin firm and supple. Dehydrated skin is even more vulnerable to UV damage.

So, what’s a sauna enthusiast in Taos to do? The key is a proactive and tailored approach that addresses both altitude and sauna-related challenges.

Hydration is King (and Queen): This isn’t just about drinking water. It’s about strategic hydration. Start hydrating before you even think about entering a sauna. Aim for at least a liter of water with electrolytes in the hours leading up to your session. Consider adding a pinch of Himalayan pink salt to your water for enhanced electrolyte absorption.

After your sauna, replenish lost fluids immediately. Don’t just chug water; opt for coconut water or a homemade electrolyte drink with lemon, lime, and a touch of honey. These provide essential minerals lost through sweat.

Skincare, Taos Style: Forget generic lotions. Your skin needs targeted support. Before entering the sauna, apply a thick layer of a locally sourced moisturizer containing ingredients like:

• Prickly pear seed oil: Abundant in linoleic acid and vitamin E, it’s deeply hydrating and helps protect against UV damage. Look for brands that source their oil from New Mexico.
• Jojoba oil: Mimics the skin’s natural sebum, providing a protective barrier against moisture loss.
• Shea butter: Rich in fatty acids and antioxidants, it soothes and nourishes dry, irritated skin.

After your sauna, cleanse your skin with a gentle, sulfate-free cleanser. Follow up with a hydrating serum containing hyaluronic acid, which attracts and retains moisture. Seal it all in with another layer of your chosen moisturizer.

Sauna Frequency and Duration: More isn’t always better. In Taos, limit sauna sessions to 15-20 minutes, no more than 2-3 times per week. Pay attention to your body. If you feel lightheaded or excessively dry, exit the sauna immediately.

Altitude Acclimation is Crucial: If you’re visiting Taos, give your body time to adjust to the altitude before hitting the sauna. Spend the first few days focusing on hydration, rest, and light activity. Avoid strenuous exercise and alcohol, which can exacerbate altitude sickness.

Consider using an altitude acclimation supplement containing ingredients like Rhodiola Rosea, which can help improve oxygen utilization.

The Pitfalls and How to Avoid Them:

• Over-reliance on generic advice: “Drink plenty of water” is not enough. You need a specific hydration strategy tailored to the Taos climate and sauna use.
• Ignoring the signs of dehydration: Pay attention to symptoms like headache, dizziness, and muscle cramps. These are your body’s warning signals.
• Using harsh skincare products: Avoid products containing alcohol, fragrances, and sulfates, which can further dry out your skin.
• Skipping sunscreen: Even on cloudy days, UV radiation is present in Taos. Apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher every day, especially after sauna use.
• Not consulting a healthcare professional: If you have any underlying health conditions, consult your doctor before using a sauna, especially in a high-altitude environment.

Real-World Application:

Imagine you’re a visitor staying at the El Monte Sagrado resort in Taos. You’re excited to try their renowned spa and sauna. Before your session, you drink a liter of water with electrolytes and apply a generous layer of prickly pear seed oil to your face and body. You limit your sauna time to 15 minutes and, afterward, cleanse with a gentle cleanser, apply a hyaluronic acid serum, and reapply the prickly pear seed oil. You also make sure to wear sunscreen throughout the day.

By following these steps, you can enjoy the benefits of the sauna without compromising your skin health.

Beyond the Surface:

The key takeaway is that sauna use in Taos requires a mindful and proactive approach. It’s not just about sweating; it’s about understanding the unique challenges of the environment and adapting your routine accordingly. By prioritizing hydration, using targeted skincare, and acclimating to the altitude, you can maintain a youthful appearance and vibrant health while enjoying the therapeutic benefits of saunas in this beautiful, yet demanding, landscape. Don’t just survive Taos; thrive in it.