Taos Sun: Altitude Stealing Youthful Lipids?
By Franklin Everett ShawThe desert air whispers secrets of resilience, etched onto the faces of those who call it home. But that sun, oh, that relentless Taos sun, combined with the altitude, it’s a double whammy for your skin. It’s not just about sunburn; it’s about the silent, invisible damage that chips away at your skin’s foundation, accelerating aging in ways you might not even realize. We’re talking about your skin’s lipid barrier, the very thing that keeps it plump, hydrated, and youthful.
The high altitude in Taos, sitting at nearly 7,000 feet, means less atmosphere to filter out harmful UV rays. This translates to significantly higher UV exposure compared to lower elevations.
Think of your skin’s lipid barrier as a mortar holding bricks together. These “bricks” are your skin cells, and the “mortar” is a complex mixture of fats, including ceramides, cholesterol, and fatty acids.
This barrier prevents water loss and protects against environmental aggressors. The intense UV radiation in Taos breaks down these lipids, weakening the barrier.
When this barrier is compromised, your skin becomes more susceptible to damage. This leads to dryness, inflammation, and premature aging, including wrinkles and sunspots.
So, what can you do to combat this desert assault on your skin? It’s not about chasing fleeting trends; it’s about building a solid, science-backed defense.
First, sunscreen is non-negotiable. But not just any sunscreen. You need a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher, and it needs to be reapplied religiously, every two hours, especially when you’re outdoors.
Look for sunscreens containing zinc oxide or titanium dioxide. These mineral sunscreens provide excellent broad-spectrum protection and are generally gentler on sensitive skin.
A common mistake is not using enough sunscreen. Most people only apply about 25-50% of the recommended amount, which significantly reduces its effectiveness.
Aim for about a shot glass full (one ounce) to cover your entire body. Don’t forget often-overlooked areas like your ears, neck, and the tops of your feet.
Next, focus on replenishing those lost lipids. This means incorporating lipid-rich ingredients into your skincare routine.
Look for products containing ceramides, hyaluronic acid, and natural oils like jojoba or argan oil. These ingredients help to restore the skin’s barrier function and lock in moisture.
Consider using a facial oil at night. Apply it after your serum and before your moisturizer to create a protective layer that prevents water loss while you sleep.
Diet also plays a crucial role. Eating foods rich in healthy fats can help to support your skin’s lipid production from the inside out.
Incorporate locally sourced ingredients like avocados, nuts, and seeds into your diet. These foods are packed with essential fatty acids that can benefit your skin.
Consider adding flaxseeds or chia seeds to your smoothies or oatmeal. These are excellent sources of omega-3 fatty acids, which have anti-inflammatory properties and can help to protect your skin from sun damage.
Don’t underestimate the power of hydration. Dehydration exacerbates dryness and weakens the skin’s barrier function.
Drink plenty of water throughout the day. Aim for at least eight glasses of water per day, and even more if you’re active or spending time outdoors.
Another often-overlooked aspect is facial exercises. These exercises can help to boost circulation and improve skin tone.
Simple exercises like gently massaging your face in upward motions can help to stimulate blood flow and reduce the appearance of wrinkles.
Try the “lion’s breath” exercise. Inhale deeply, then exhale forcefully while sticking out your tongue and opening your eyes wide. This exercise can help to release tension in your facial muscles and improve circulation.
Be mindful of the products you’re using. Harsh cleansers and exfoliants can strip your skin of its natural oils, further compromising the lipid barrier.
Opt for gentle, sulfate-free cleansers and avoid over-exfoliating. Limit exfoliation to once or twice a week, and choose a gentle exfoliant like a chemical peel with a low percentage of AHA/BHA.
Consider investing in a humidifier, especially during the dry winter months. A humidifier can help to add moisture to the air, preventing your skin from drying out.
Place a humidifier in your bedroom to help keep your skin hydrated while you sleep. This is especially important in Taos, where the air is often very dry.
Finally, remember that consistency is key. Building a strong defense against the harsh Taos sun takes time and effort.
Stick to your skincare routine, eat a healthy diet, and stay hydrated. Over time, you’ll notice a significant improvement in your skin’s health and appearance.
Don’t get discouraged if you don’t see results immediately. It takes time for your skin to repair itself and rebuild its lipid barrier.
Be patient and persistent, and you’ll be rewarded with healthy, radiant skin that can withstand the challenges of the Taos environment. It’s about respecting the environment and working with it, not against it.