Taos Tea: Altitude Air Drying Summer Skin?
By Franklin Everett ShawThe dry air hits you like a wall. It’s not just the heat; it’s the lack of moisture, a constant, subtle thief pulling hydration from your skin. And if you’re in Taos, New Mexico, especially during the summer, that thief is working overtime.
Taos, nestled high in the Sangre de Cristo Mountains, presents a unique challenge to skin health. The altitude, the arid climate, and the intense sun combine to create a perfect storm for dryness, sun damage, and premature aging. But don’t despair! With the right knowledge and a tailored approach, you can keep your skin healthy and radiant even in this demanding environment.
The altitude is the first culprit. At over 7,000 feet, the air is thinner and holds less moisture. This means your skin loses water more rapidly through transepidermal water loss (TEWL). The higher you go, the more pronounced this effect becomes.
Next, consider the aridity. Taos is a desert climate, characterized by low humidity. This lack of ambient moisture further exacerbates TEWL, leaving your skin feeling tight, itchy, and prone to cracking.
Finally, the sun. At high altitude, the atmosphere is thinner, filtering less UV radiation. This means you’re exposed to a higher intensity of harmful UV rays, increasing your risk of sunburn, sun damage, and skin cancer.
So, what’s the solution? It’s a multi-pronged approach focusing on hydration, protection, and repair.
First, let’s talk hydration. It’s not just about drinking water, although that’s crucial. You need to hydrate from the inside out and the outside in.
Internal Hydration: Aim for at least eight glasses of water a day. Consider adding electrolytes, especially if you’re active or spending time outdoors. Local tip: Many Taos residents swear by adding a pinch of sea salt to their water to help with electrolyte balance.
External Hydration: This is where your skincare routine comes in. Look for moisturizers containing humectants, emollients, and occlusives. Humectants, like hyaluronic acid and glycerin, draw moisture from the air into your skin. Emollients, like shea butter and ceramides, soften and smooth the skin. Occlusives, like petrolatum and beeswax, create a barrier to prevent water loss.
A great strategy is to apply a hyaluronic acid serum to damp skin after showering, followed by a rich moisturizer containing ceramides and shea butter. This “sandwich” technique helps to lock in moisture and keep your skin hydrated throughout the day. You can find excellent moisturizers at Cid’s Food Market in Taos, which often carries natural and organic options.
Sunscreen is non-negotiable. Choose a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher, and apply it liberally 30 minutes before sun exposure. Reapply every two hours, or more often if you’re swimming or sweating.
Look for sunscreens containing zinc oxide or titanium dioxide, as these mineral sunscreens are generally considered safer and more effective than chemical sunscreens. They also tend to be less irritating, which is important if you have sensitive skin.
Don’t forget often-overlooked areas like your ears, neck, and the backs of your hands. A wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses are also essential for protecting your skin from the sun.
Taos Herb Company offers a range of natural sunscreens and after-sun care products. Their knowledgeable staff can help you choose the right products for your skin type and needs.
Now, let’s talk about repairing sun damage. Even with the best protection, some sun exposure is inevitable. Incorporate antioxidants into your skincare routine to help neutralize free radicals and repair damaged skin cells.
Vitamin C is a powerful antioxidant that can help brighten skin, reduce hyperpigmentation, and boost collagen production. Apply a vitamin C serum in the morning before your sunscreen.
Retinoids, such as retinol and tretinoin, are another effective tool for repairing sun damage. They can help to improve skin texture, reduce wrinkles, and fade dark spots. However, retinoids can be irritating, so start slowly and gradually increase the frequency of use as tolerated.
Consider incorporating foods rich in antioxidants into your diet. Berries, leafy greens, and colorful vegetables are all excellent sources of antioxidants.
Locally, some residents believe that consuming prickly pear cactus fruit (tuna) can help with skin hydration due to its high water content and antioxidant properties. While scientific evidence is limited, it’s a traditional remedy worth exploring.
Another local favorite is atole, a traditional blue corn drink. Blue corn is rich in antioxidants, and the liquid helps with hydration.
Common mistakes to avoid:
Over-exfoliating: Exfoliating too often can strip your skin of its natural oils and make it more susceptible to dryness and irritation. Limit exfoliation to once or twice a week.
Using harsh cleansers: Harsh cleansers can also strip your skin of its natural oils. Choose a gentle, hydrating cleanser that won’t leave your skin feeling tight or dry.
Ignoring your lips: Your lips are particularly vulnerable to dryness and sun damage. Use a lip balm with SPF throughout the day.
Forgetting about your hands: Your hands are constantly exposed to the elements. Apply a moisturizer after washing your hands and before going to bed.
Not adjusting your routine seasonally: You may need to adjust your skincare routine depending on the season. In the winter, when the air is even drier, you may need to use a richer moisturizer and apply it more frequently.
Living in or visiting Taos doesn’t have to mean sacrificing your skin health. By understanding the unique challenges of the environment and adopting a tailored skincare routine, you can keep your skin healthy, hydrated, and protected from the sun. Remember to hydrate internally and externally, protect yourself with sunscreen and protective clothing, and repair any sun damage with antioxidants and retinoids. And don’t forget to explore local remedies and traditions for an extra boost of hydration and protection.