Taos Tap: Altitude Lies Crashing Hair Biome?
By Franklin Everett ShawForget those glossy magazine articles promising miracle hair growth. We’re diving deep into something far more specific, far more real: how the unique environment of Taos, New Mexico, and its tap water, impacts your hair. This isn’t about generic advice; this is about your hair, in your town.
Taos, nestled high in the Sangre de Cristo Mountains, presents a unique set of challenges. The altitude, the dry air, and, crucially, the composition of the local water supply all play a role in the health of your hair. We’re going to dissect these factors and arm you with actionable strategies to combat their effects.
Let’s start with the water. Taos tap water, while generally safe to drink, can contain high levels of minerals. These minerals, like calcium and magnesium, contribute to what’s known as “hard water.”
Hard water can wreak havoc on your hair. It prevents shampoo from lathering properly, leaving behind a residue that makes hair feel dull, sticky, and prone to breakage. This residue also interferes with color treatments, causing them to fade faster and less evenly.
But it’s not just about mineral buildup. The high altitude in Taos also affects your hair’s moisture levels. The air is thinner and drier, leading to increased water evaporation from your hair and scalp.
This combination of hard water and dry air can disrupt the delicate balance of your scalp’s microbiome. A healthy scalp microbiome is crucial for hair growth and overall hair health. An imbalance can lead to dandruff, itching, and even hair loss.
So, what can you do? The first step is to understand what’s actually in your Taos tap water.
You can purchase a DIY water testing kit online or at a local hardware store. These kits typically test for hardness, pH, chlorine, and other common contaminants. Follow the instructions carefully to ensure accurate results.
Alternatively, you can contact the Town of Taos Water Department for a water quality report. While this report won’t give you a precise breakdown of the mineral content in your specific tap, it will provide a general overview of the water quality in the area.
Once you know the mineral content of your water, you can choose the right water filter. A simple showerhead filter can significantly reduce the amount of minerals that come into contact with your hair. Look for filters specifically designed to remove calcium and magnesium.
For a more comprehensive solution, consider installing a whole-house water softener. This will filter all the water entering your home, protecting not only your hair but also your skin and appliances.
Next, let’s talk about shampoo. Ditch the generic drugstore brands and opt for a clarifying shampoo specifically formulated to remove mineral buildup. Use it once or twice a week, followed by a moisturizing conditioner.
Look for shampoos containing ingredients like EDTA or citric acid, which help to chelate (bind to) minerals and wash them away. Avoid shampoos with sulfates, as they can strip your hair of its natural oils, exacerbating the dryness caused by the altitude.
Now, let’s address the scalp microbiome. Incorporate a scalp scrub into your routine once a week to remove dead skin cells and product buildup. This will help to create a healthy environment for your hair follicles.
Consider using a probiotic scalp treatment to rebalance the microbiome. These treatments contain beneficial bacteria that can help to reduce inflammation and promote hair growth.
Diet also plays a crucial role in hair health. Ensure you’re getting enough protein, iron, and omega-3 fatty acids. These nutrients are essential for hair growth and strength.
Consider incorporating foods rich in probiotics into your diet, such as yogurt, kefir, and sauerkraut. These foods can help to improve your gut health, which in turn can benefit your scalp microbiome.
Don’t underestimate the power of a good haircut. Regular trims can help to remove split ends and prevent breakage, keeping your hair looking healthy and vibrant.
Consider visiting a local Taos salon that specializes in treating hair damaged by hard water and dry climates. Stylists at salons like Salon Xada or Hair Gallery Taos are familiar with the challenges faced by residents and can recommend specific treatments and products.
They may suggest a deep conditioning treatment or a keratin treatment to help smooth the hair cuticle and reduce frizz. They can also advise you on the best styling products to use in the dry Taos climate.
One common mistake people make is over-washing their hair. Washing your hair too frequently can strip it of its natural oils, making it even drier and more brittle. Aim to wash your hair only two or three times a week.
Another mistake is using heat styling tools too often. Heat can damage the hair cuticle, leading to breakage and split ends. If you must use heat, always use a heat protectant spray.
Finally, remember that consistency is key. It takes time to see results, so stick with your new hair care routine for at least a few months before evaluating its effectiveness.
Don’t be afraid to experiment with different products and techniques to find what works best for your hair. What works for one person may not work for another.
Consider keeping a hair journal to track your progress. Note the products you’re using, the techniques you’re trying, and how your hair is responding. This will help you to identify what’s working and what’s not.
Living in Taos presents unique challenges to hair health, but with the right knowledge and strategies, you can overcome them. By understanding the impact of hard water, dry air, and the scalp microbiome, you can create a hair care routine that will leave your hair looking and feeling its best.
Remember to test your water, choose the right filter, use clarifying shampoo, balance your scalp microbiome, eat a healthy diet, and visit a local salon for expert advice. With a little effort, you can have healthy, beautiful hair, even in the high desert of Taos.