Taos Tap Water: Altitude Lies Cracking Hair Lasers?
By Franklin Everett ShawForget those glossy brochures promising mountain spring freshness. The truth about your Taos tap water is likely more complex, especially if you’re noticing changes in your hair or skin. We’re diving deep into the specifics of Taos water, beyond the usual platitudes, to give you actionable steps for healthier living.
Taos, New Mexico, a town nestled high in the Sangre de Cristo Mountains, faces unique water quality challenges. The high altitude affects water chemistry, and the town’s aging infrastructure can contribute to contamination. This isn’t about fear-mongering; it’s about understanding the specific risks and taking control.
So, what exactly could be lurking in your Taos tap water that’s impacting your hair and skin? Let’s break it down.
Hardness: Taos water tends to be hard, meaning it contains high levels of minerals like calcium and magnesium. These minerals can leave a residue on hair, making it feel dull, dry, and prone to breakage. On skin, hard water can prevent soap from lathering properly, leading to dryness, irritation, and even eczema flare-ups.
Disinfection Byproducts (DBPs): To kill harmful bacteria, Taos uses disinfectants like chlorine. While effective, these disinfectants can react with organic matter in the water to form DBPs, such as trihalomethanes (THMs) and haloacetic acids (HAAs). These chemicals are linked to various health concerns and can also dry out hair and skin.
Lead and Copper: Taos’s older homes may have lead pipes or copper pipes with lead solder. As water flows through these pipes, lead and copper can leach into the water supply. Lead is a serious neurotoxin, especially harmful to children. Copper can cause gastrointestinal issues and, in high concentrations, can discolor hair.
Arsenic: While Taos’s water sources are generally tested for arsenic, naturally occurring arsenic can sometimes be present in groundwater. Long-term exposure to arsenic can lead to various health problems, including skin lesions and certain cancers.
Sediment and Rust: Aging pipes can also release sediment and rust into the water, giving it a cloudy appearance and a metallic taste. These particles can clog pores, irritate skin, and damage hair follicles.
Now, how do you know if these contaminants are present in your Taos tap water? The answer: test it. Don’t rely solely on the annual water quality reports from the town, as these represent averages across the entire system. Your specific location and plumbing can significantly impact your water quality.
Here’s a step-by-step guide to testing your Taos tap water:
Choose a Testing Method: You have two main options:
- DIY Test Kits: These are readily available online or at hardware stores. Look for kits that test for hardness, chlorine, lead, copper, and arsenic. Be sure to choose a reputable brand and follow the instructions carefully. A good option is a kit from SimpleWater, which offers detailed analysis and clear results.
- Certified Laboratory Testing: This is the most accurate option. Contact a certified laboratory in New Mexico (you can find a list on the New Mexico Environment Department website) and request a water testing kit. They will provide instructions on how to collect a sample and send it to the lab for analysis. This is more expensive but provides a comprehensive analysis of a wider range of contaminants.
Collect Your Sample: Follow the instructions provided with your chosen testing method. Generally, you’ll need to flush your pipes for a few minutes before collecting the sample in a sterile container.
Analyze the Results: DIY kits will provide immediate results, while lab results may take a few weeks. Carefully review the results and compare them to the EPA’s Maximum Contaminant Levels (MCLs).
Understand Local Context: Remember that Taos’s high altitude can affect water chemistry. Consult with a local water treatment specialist to interpret your results in the context of Taos’s specific water conditions.
Interpreting your water test results is crucial. Here’s what to look for, specifically in Taos:
Hardness: Levels above 120 mg/L are considered very hard. If your water is hard, consider a water softener.
Chlorine: While chlorine is necessary for disinfection, levels above 4 ppm can be irritating. A carbon filter can remove chlorine and improve taste and odor.
Lead: Any detectable level of lead is a concern. If lead is present, contact the town of Taos and consider replacing your plumbing.
Copper: Levels above 1.3 ppm can cause health problems. A water filter certified to remove copper can help.
Arsenic: The EPA’s MCL for arsenic is 10 ppb. If your water exceeds this level, consider a specialized arsenic removal filter.
Once you’ve identified any issues with your Taos tap water, it’s time to take action. Here are some tailored water filtration and hair/skincare solutions:
Whole-House Water Filter: This is the most comprehensive solution, filtering all the water entering your home. Look for a filter that addresses your specific concerns, such as hardness, chlorine, lead, and sediment.
Shower Filter: A shower filter can remove chlorine and other contaminants that can dry out hair and skin. Choose a filter with a replaceable cartridge for optimal performance.
Faucet Filter: A faucet filter is a convenient option for filtering drinking water and water used for washing your face.
Water Softener: If your water is hard, a water softener can remove calcium and magnesium, improving hair and skin health.
Chelating Shampoo: Use a chelating shampoo once or twice a week to remove mineral buildup from your hair. Look for shampoos containing EDTA or phytic acid.
Acidic Rinse: After shampooing, rinse your hair with diluted apple cider vinegar or lemon juice to help restore its pH balance and remove mineral deposits.
Moisturizing Hair Mask: Use a deep-conditioning hair mask regularly to hydrate and nourish your hair.
Gentle Cleansers: Use gentle, sulfate-free cleansers on your skin to avoid stripping away natural oils.
Moisturizers: Apply a rich moisturizer immediately after showering or washing your face to lock in moisture. Look for moisturizers containing hyaluronic acid, ceramides, and glycerin.
Eczema Creams: If you have eczema, use a medicated eczema cream as directed by your doctor.
Common mistakes developers face when addressing water quality issues include:
Relying solely on municipal reports: As mentioned earlier, these reports provide averages and may not reflect the specific conditions in your home.
Choosing the wrong filter: Not all filters are created equal. Choose a filter that is certified to remove the specific contaminants in your water.
Neglecting filter maintenance: Filters need to be replaced regularly to maintain their effectiveness. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for filter replacement.
Ignoring plumbing issues: If you have lead pipes, simply filtering your water may not be enough. Consider replacing your plumbing to eliminate the source of contamination.
Not consulting with a professional: If you’re unsure about your water quality or the best treatment options, consult with a certified water treatment specialist.
Living in Taos offers unparalleled beauty and a unique lifestyle. By understanding the specific challenges of Taos tap water and taking proactive steps to address them, you can protect your health and enjoy healthier hair and skin. Don’t settle for generic solutions; tailor your approach to the specific needs of your Taos home.