Taos Sun: Altitude Lies Cracking Winter Skin?
By Franklin Everett ShawThe biting wind whips through the canyons, carrying with it the scent of piñon and juniper. But it also carries a less welcome companion: relentless dryness. For those of us who call Taos, New Mexico home, winter isn’t just about snow-dusted mountains; it’s a battle against skin so parched it feels like it might crack at any moment. We’re not talking about a little lotion-worthy dryness; we’re talking about a full-blown epidermal crisis.
This isn’t just about aesthetics; it’s about comfort and health. The high altitude, intense sun, and arid climate conspire to strip our skin of its natural moisture, leaving it vulnerable to irritation, infection, and premature aging. But fear not, fellow Taoseños! There’s a way to fight back, and it starts with understanding the unique challenges our environment presents.
First, let’s talk about the elephant in the room: altitude. At over 7,000 feet, Taos has significantly less atmospheric pressure than lower elevations. This means water evaporates from our skin much faster.
The sun, while beautiful, is also a major culprit. The thinner atmosphere at high altitude filters less UV radiation, making sunscreen a non-negotiable, even on cloudy days.
And then there’s the air itself. The desert climate means low humidity, which further exacerbates moisture loss.
So, what can we do? Let’s break it down into actionable steps, focusing on products you can find right here in Taos and remedies that utilize local ingredients.
Step 1: Hydration, Inside and Out
This seems obvious, but it’s crucial. Drink plenty of water throughout the day. Carry a reusable water bottle and refill it often.
Consider adding electrolytes to your water, especially after physical activity. You can find electrolyte powders at Taos Pharmacy or Cid’s Food Market.
But hydration isn’t just about drinking water. It’s also about what you put on your skin.
Step 2: The Right Cleanser
Ditch the harsh, foaming cleansers. These strip your skin of its natural oils, making the problem worse.
Instead, opt for a gentle, hydrating cleanser. Look for products containing ceramides, hyaluronic acid, or glycerin.
A great option available at Natural Grocers in Taos is the Cerave Hydrating Facial Cleanser. It’s fragrance-free and non-comedogenic, meaning it won’t clog your pores.
Step 3: The Power of Humectants, Emollients, and Occlusives
These are the three pillars of effective moisturizing. Humectants draw moisture from the air into your skin. Emollients smooth and soften the skin. Occlusives create a barrier to prevent moisture loss.
Hyaluronic acid is a powerful humectant. Look for serums containing hyaluronic acid and apply them to damp skin after cleansing. The Ordinary Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5, available online or at some larger pharmacies, is a budget-friendly option.
Emollients like shea butter, cocoa butter, and jojoba oil are excellent for soothing dry, irritated skin. You can find pure shea butter at the Taos Farmers Market during the warmer months.
Occlusives like petroleum jelly and beeswax create a protective barrier. While petroleum jelly isn’t the most glamorous, it’s incredibly effective. Apply it as the last step in your skincare routine, especially at night.
Step 4: Sunscreen, Sunscreen, Sunscreen
We can’t stress this enough. Use a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher every day, even when it’s cloudy.
Look for mineral sunscreens containing zinc oxide or titanium dioxide. These are gentler on sensitive skin and provide excellent protection.
Badger Balm Baby Sunscreen, available at many local stores, is a good option.
Step 5: DIY Remedies with a Taos Twist
Now for the fun part! Let’s harness the power of local ingredients to create some DIY remedies.
Blue Cornmeal Mask: Blue cornmeal is a traditional ingredient in New Mexican cuisine, but it also has skin-soothing properties. Mix 1 tablespoon of blue cornmeal with 2 tablespoons of plain yogurt and 1 teaspoon of honey. Apply to your face and leave on for 15-20 minutes. Rinse with warm water. The yogurt contains lactic acid, a gentle exfoliant, while the honey is a natural humectant. You can find blue cornmeal at most grocery stores in Taos.
Chamomile and Lavender Infusion: Chamomile and lavender are known for their calming and anti-inflammatory properties. Steep chamomile and lavender flowers in hot water for 10 minutes. Let cool and use as a facial toner after cleansing. You can find dried chamomile and lavender at the Taos Herb Company.
Honey and Olive Oil Hand Treatment: Mix equal parts honey and olive oil. Apply to your hands and wear cotton gloves overnight. This will deeply moisturize and soften dry, cracked hands.
Step 6: When to See a Dermatologist
If your dry skin is severe, persistent, or accompanied by other symptoms like itching, redness, or inflammation, it’s time to see a dermatologist.
They can diagnose any underlying skin conditions and recommend prescription-strength treatments.
Common Mistakes and Pitfalls
Over-exfoliating: Exfoliating too often can strip your skin of its natural oils and make dryness worse. Limit exfoliation to once or twice a week.
Using hot water: Hot water can dry out your skin. Use lukewarm water when washing your face and showering.
Ignoring your lips: Your lips are especially vulnerable to dryness. Use a moisturizing lip balm with SPF throughout the day.
Not adjusting your routine seasonally: You may need to adjust your skincare routine as the seasons change. In the winter, you may need to use a heavier moisturizer.
Real-World Scenario: The Ski Trip Rescue
Imagine you’re heading up to Taos Ski Valley for a day on the slopes. The combination of high altitude, cold air, and wind can wreak havoc on your skin.
Before you go, apply a thick layer of moisturizer and sunscreen. Reapply sunscreen every two hours.
After skiing, cleanse your face with a gentle cleanser and apply a hydrating serum and moisturizer.
Consider using a humidifier in your home to add moisture to the air.
Combating dry, cracked winter skin in Taos requires a multi-faceted approach. By understanding the unique challenges our environment presents and adopting a consistent skincare routine, we can keep our skin healthy and hydrated all winter long. Remember to hydrate, protect, and nourish your skin with the right products and ingredients. And don’t be afraid to experiment with DIY remedies using local ingredients. With a little effort, you can conquer the Taos winter dryness and enjoy the beauty of our mountain home.