Taos Skin: Altitude AC Stealing Youthful Oils?
By Franklin Everett ShawThe desert air whispers secrets of resilience, but it also steals moisture with every gust. Here in Taos, New Mexico, where the sun blazes and the altitude saps the very essence of hydration, our skin faces a unique battle. It’s a fight against premature aging, exacerbated by the very comforts we seek indoors: air conditioning. But fear not, Taoseños! We can reclaim our youthful glow with a targeted approach.
The key is understanding the enemy: dehydration. The combination of high altitude, low humidity, and the moisture-wicking effects of air conditioning creates a perfect storm for dry, aging skin. This trifecta strips away the skin’s natural oils, leading to fine lines, wrinkles, and a dull complexion.
Our strategy? A two-pronged attack: humectant-rich skincare and strategic humidifier use. Humectants are moisture magnets. They draw water from the environment (or deeper layers of your skin) and bind it to the surface, providing lasting hydration. Think of them as tiny reservoirs for your skin.
Here’s a Taos-centric skincare routine, focusing on readily available ingredients and local resources:
Step 1: Gentle Cleansing. Harsh soaps will only worsen the problem. Opt for a creamy, hydrating cleanser. Check out the natural skincare section at Cid’s Food Market. Look for cleansers containing ingredients like aloe vera (abundant in New Mexico) or honey (locally sourced from Taos Mesa Brewing Mothership).
Step 2: Hydrating Toner. Toners are often overlooked, but they’re crucial for prepping the skin for moisture. A simple rosewater toner is incredibly effective. You can find pure rosewater at Taos Herb Company or even make your own by steeping dried rose petals in distilled water.
Step 3: Humectant Serum. This is where the magic happens. Hyaluronic acid is the gold standard, but glycerin and honey are excellent alternatives. You can find hyaluronic acid serums at most drugstores in Taos, like Walgreens or Smith’s. For a DIY option, mix a teaspoon of local honey with a few drops of water and apply it to your face.
Step 4: Moisturizer. Seal in all that hydration with a rich, emollient moisturizer. Look for ingredients like shea butter, jojoba oil (similar to our skin’s natural sebum), or avocado oil. You can find these ingredients in many natural moisturizers at the Taos Farmers Market or online from New Mexico-based skincare brands.
Step 5: Sunscreen. This is non-negotiable, especially at high altitude. The sun’s rays are more intense in Taos. Use a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher every single day, even on cloudy days. You can find a wide variety of sunscreens at any local pharmacy or grocery store.
Step 6: (Nighttime) Facial Oil. At night, add a facial oil to your routine to further lock in moisture and nourish your skin. Argan oil, rosehip oil, or even locally sourced sunflower oil are excellent choices. You can find these oils at health food stores like Taos Natural Foods.
Now, let’s talk humidifiers. They’re not just for stuffy noses; they’re essential for combating the dry air that plagues Taos homes, especially when the AC is running.
Here’s how to choose and use a humidifier effectively:
- Choose the right type: Evaporative humidifiers are generally recommended for smaller spaces, while ultrasonic humidifiers are better for larger rooms. Consider the size of your bedroom or living room when making your choice. You can find a variety of humidifiers at stores like Walmart or Lowe’s in Taos.
- Use distilled water: Tap water contains minerals that can build up in the humidifier and be released into the air, potentially causing respiratory problems. Distilled water is readily available at most grocery stores.
- Clean it regularly: Humidifiers can harbor mold and bacteria if not cleaned properly. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for cleaning, typically involving a solution of vinegar and water.
- Monitor humidity levels: Aim for a humidity level between 30% and 50%. You can use a hygrometer (available at hardware stores) to monitor the humidity in your home.
A common mistake is over-humidifying. Too much humidity can create a breeding ground for mold and mildew, which can be just as detrimental to your health as dry air.
Another pitfall is inconsistent use. Don’t just use your humidifier when you feel dry. Run it consistently, especially during the winter months and when the AC is on.
DIY remedies can also play a crucial role in combating dry skin in Taos. Northern New Mexico offers a wealth of natural ingredients that can be incorporated into your skincare routine.
- Aloe Vera Mask: Aloe vera is incredibly soothing and hydrating. Simply apply fresh aloe vera gel (from a plant or a store-bought gel) to your face for 15-20 minutes, then rinse with cool water.
- Oatmeal Bath: Oatmeal is a natural emollient that can help soothe dry, itchy skin. Add a cup of colloidal oatmeal to a warm bath and soak for 15-20 minutes.
- Honey Mask: As mentioned earlier, honey is a powerful humectant. Apply a thin layer of raw honey to your face for 15-20 minutes, then rinse with warm water.
Finding the right products in Taos can be a challenge, but it’s not impossible. Support local businesses whenever possible. Taos Herb Company offers a wide range of natural skincare ingredients and products. The Taos Farmers Market is a great place to find locally made skincare products. Cid’s Food Market and Taos Natural Foods have a good selection of natural and organic skincare options.
Remember, consistency is key. It takes time to see results from any skincare routine. Be patient and persistent, and you’ll be rewarded with healthy, hydrated, and youthful-looking skin, even in the challenging climate of Taos. Don’t give up! Your skin will thank you.