Taos Tea: Altitude Air Stealing Summer Skin Hydration?

By Franklin Everett Shaw

January 1, 2026

The relentless New Mexico sun, especially in Taos, isn’t just about stunning sunsets and vibrant art. It’s a silent thief, constantly pilfering moisture from your skin. But what if a local secret, brewed from the very earth of Taos, could be the key to staying hydrated and radiant all summer long?

Taos Tea isn’t your average iced tea. It’s a carefully crafted blend designed to combat the unique challenges of high-altitude living, specifically skin dehydration. Let’s dive into how this local favorite can be your secret weapon against the summer sun, and how you can even create your own version.

The altitude in Taos, hovering around 7,000 feet, presents a significant challenge. The air is thinner, meaning less oxygen and increased UV radiation. This combination leads to faster water loss through the skin, leaving it dry, tight, and more susceptible to sun damage. Traditional hydration methods, like simply drinking more water, often fall short.

Taos Tea addresses this problem with a two-pronged approach: adaptogens and antioxidants. Adaptogens are natural substances that help the body adapt to stress, whether it’s physical, environmental, or emotional. In the context of high-altitude living, they can help regulate the body’s stress response to the thinner air and increased UV exposure, indirectly supporting hydration. Antioxidants, on the other hand, directly combat the damaging effects of free radicals caused by UV radiation, protecting skin cells and preventing premature aging.

So, what’s actually in Taos Tea? While specific recipes vary, common ingredients include:

Yerba Mate: A South American herb known for its energy-boosting properties and high antioxidant content. It provides a sustained energy lift without the jitters of coffee, crucial for maintaining energy levels at altitude.
Hibiscus: Adds a tart, refreshing flavor and is packed with vitamin C, a powerful antioxidant that supports collagen production and skin elasticity.
Rosehips: Another excellent source of vitamin C, rosehips also contain essential fatty acids that help to nourish and hydrate the skin from within.
Licorice Root: An adaptogen that helps regulate cortisol levels, reducing stress and supporting overall well-being. It also has anti-inflammatory properties that can soothe irritated skin.
Local Honey: A natural sweetener with antibacterial and humectant properties, meaning it helps to draw moisture to the skin.

How does Taos Tea stack up against other hydration strategies? Water is, of course, essential. However, water alone doesn’t always address the underlying issues of oxidative stress and hormonal imbalances caused by high-altitude living. Sports drinks, while helpful for electrolyte replenishment after strenuous activity, often contain high levels of sugar and artificial ingredients. Taos Tea offers a more holistic approach, addressing both hydration and overall well-being with natural ingredients.

Let’s get practical. Here’s a DIY recipe inspired by traditional Taos Tea, perfect for brewing at home:

High-Altitude Hydration Elixir

1 tablespoon Yerba Mate
1 tablespoon dried Hibiscus flowers
1 tablespoon dried Rosehips
1/2 teaspoon Licorice Root (optional, but recommended)
4 cups filtered water
1-2 tablespoons local honey (to taste)

Instructions:

Combine Yerba Mate, Hibiscus, Rosehips, and Licorice Root in a saucepan.
Add water and bring to a simmer over medium heat.
Reduce heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes.
Remove from heat and let steep for another 10 minutes.
Strain the tea through a fine-mesh sieve or cheesecloth.
Stir in honey to taste.
Serve hot or chilled.

Pro-Tip: For an extra boost of hydration, add a pinch of sea salt to your tea. This helps to replenish electrolytes lost through sweat.

Now, where can you source these ingredients in Taos? The Taos Farmers Market is a great place to start, especially for local honey and herbs. Taos Mesa Brewing Mothership often has local vendors selling teas and herbal remedies. For dried herbs and spices, check out Cid’s Food Market or the Taos Co-op Market.

One common mistake people make when trying to combat skin dehydration is focusing solely on topical treatments. While moisturizers are important, they only address the surface of the skin. True hydration comes from within. Another pitfall is over-exfoliating. While exfoliation can help to remove dead skin cells, overdoing it can strip the skin of its natural oils, leading to further dehydration.

Living in Taos, or any high-altitude environment, requires a proactive approach to skincare. It’s not just about slapping on some sunscreen and hoping for the best. It’s about understanding the unique challenges of the environment and adapting your lifestyle accordingly. Taos Tea, or a DIY version thereof, can be a valuable tool in your arsenal, helping you to stay hydrated, radiant, and healthy all summer long.

Consider this: a local artist, Maria, struggled with dry, flaky skin every summer. She tried countless lotions and creams, but nothing seemed to work. Then, she started drinking Taos Tea regularly, and noticed a significant improvement. Her skin became more hydrated, supple, and less prone to sunburn. This isn’t just anecdotal evidence; it’s a testament to the power of adaptogens and antioxidants in combating the effects of high-altitude living.

Don’t fall into the trap of thinking that hydration is a one-size-fits-all solution. What works for someone living at sea level may not be enough for someone living in Taos. Embrace the local wisdom, experiment with different ingredients, and find what works best for your body. Your skin will thank you for it.