Taos Tears: Altitude Air Cracking Laser Lips?
By Franklin Everett ShawHave you ever felt like your skin was screaming for moisture after a day exploring the high desert? You’re not alone. Taos, New Mexico, with its stunning landscapes and rich culture, also presents a unique challenge: “Taos Tears.” This isn’t some mystical phenomenon, but rather the very real discomfort of severely chapped lips and dry nasal passages, a common complaint among visitors and even long-time residents. But don’t let this deter you from experiencing the magic of Taos. With a little preparation and the right knowledge, you can combat “Taos Tears” and enjoy your visit to the fullest.
The culprit behind “Taos Tears” is a trifecta of environmental factors. First, Taos sits at a high altitude, around 7,000 feet above sea level. This means thinner air and less moisture. Second, the desert climate contributes to extremely low humidity levels, often dipping below 20%. Finally, the intense New Mexico sun, especially at altitude, relentlessly dries out exposed skin.
So, how do you fight back? Let’s start with your lips. Forget generic drug store lip balms. You need serious hydration and protection. Look for lip balms containing beeswax, shea butter, or cocoa butter. These ingredients create a protective barrier, locking in moisture and shielding your lips from the harsh elements.
Specifically, check out the Taos Mesa Brewing Mothership. They often carry locally made lip balms with natural ingredients. Another great option is Cid’s Food Market. They usually stock a variety of high-quality, moisturizing lip balms. Avoid lip balms with menthol or camphor, as these can actually dry out your lips in the long run.
Now, let’s tackle those dry nasal passages. A humidifier is your best friend. If you’re staying in a hotel or rental, request a humidifier. If they don’t have one, consider purchasing a small, portable humidifier. You can find these at Walmart in Taos or online before your trip.
But what if you’re caught without a humidifier? Here’s a local secret: pinion sap. Pinion trees are abundant in the Taos area, and their sap has natural moisturizing and antiseptic properties. Find a small, hardened piece of sap (look for it on the bark of the trees) and gently rub a tiny amount inside your nostrils. Be careful not to use too much, as it can be sticky. This is a traditional remedy used by Native Americans for generations.
Beyond lip balm and humidifiers, hydration is key. Drink plenty of water throughout the day. Avoid sugary drinks and alcohol, as these can dehydrate you further. Consider adding electrolytes to your water, especially if you’re engaging in outdoor activities.
Another often overlooked factor is air quality. While Taos generally enjoys good air quality, it’s worth checking the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) data, especially during wildfire season. You can find this information on the EPA’s AirNow website (airnow.gov). Search for Taos, New Mexico, to see the current air quality index (AQI).
If the AQI is elevated, consider wearing a mask, especially if you have respiratory issues. Smoke particles can further irritate your nasal passages and exacerbate the symptoms of “Taos Tears.” Also, keep windows closed and run an air purifier if possible.
One common mistake visitors make is not starting their preventative measures early enough. Don’t wait until your lips are already cracked and bleeding to start applying lip balm. Begin hydrating and moisturizing your skin and nasal passages before you even arrive in Taos.
Another pitfall is over-exfoliating your lips. While it might seem like a good idea to scrub away dry skin, this can actually damage the delicate skin on your lips and make them more susceptible to dryness. Instead, gently exfoliate with a soft toothbrush or a damp washcloth only when necessary.
Finally, remember that everyone’s skin is different. What works for one person might not work for another. Experiment with different lip balms and moisturizing techniques to find what works best for you. Don’t be afraid to ask locals for their recommendations. They’ve been dealing with “Taos Tears” for years and have plenty of tried-and-true remedies.
So, armed with this knowledge, you can confidently explore the beauty of Taos without suffering the discomfort of “Taos Tears.” Remember to hydrate, moisturize, protect, and check the air quality. And if all else fails, seek out some pinion sap – a true taste of Taos and a natural remedy for dry skin. Enjoy your trip!