Taos Tears: Altitude Air Cracking Winter Lips?
By Franklin Everett ShawThe sting of wind-whipped snow against your face is a badge of honor in Taos. But the same elements that make for epic ski days can wreak havoc on your lips. We’re talking about "Taos Tears"—that uniquely painful, ultra-chapped lip situation that seems to plague everyone who spends a winter in this high-altitude haven. Forget generic lip balm; you need a Taos-specific strategy.
Here’s your survival guide to kissable lips, even when the mountain is calling.
First, understand the enemy. Taos sits at over 7,000 feet, and Taos Ski Valley climbs to over 12,000. At that altitude, the air is incredibly dry, sucking moisture from your skin faster than you can say “powder day.” Add in the relentless sun reflecting off the snow, and you’ve got a recipe for disaster.
Prevention is paramount. Don’t wait for your lips to crack before you take action.
Hydrate, Hydrate, Hydrate: This isn’t just about slapping on lip balm. You need to be drinking water constantly. Carry a reusable water bottle and aim to refill it at least four times a day. Consider adding electrolytes, especially if you’re skiing or hiking. The dryness is coming from the inside out, so combat it internally.
SPF is Your BFF: The sun at high altitude is intense. Use a lip balm with an SPF of at least 30, and reapply it every two hours, especially when you’re on the slopes. Don’t forget the underside of your bottom lip – that’s a common spot people miss. Look for lip balms containing zinc oxide or titanium dioxide for broad-spectrum protection.
Nighttime is Repair Time: Before bed, slather on a thick layer of a healing balm. Look for ingredients like shea butter, lanolin, or beeswax. Avoid anything with fragrance or artificial flavors, as these can be irritating.
Now, let’s talk about specific products you can find right here in Taos. Forget the national brands; we’re going local.
Taos Herb Company Lip Balm: This is a local favorite for a reason. They use natural ingredients and their balms are incredibly moisturizing. You can find them at the Taos Herb Company store on Paseo del Pueblo Norte, or at many local pharmacies and health food stores.
Piñon Oil Lip Balm (DIY): Piñon trees are abundant in Northern New Mexico, and their oil is incredibly nourishing. You can find pure piñon oil at the Taos Farmers Market or online from local producers. To make your own lip balm, melt together 1 tablespoon of beeswax, 1 tablespoon of shea butter, and 1 teaspoon of piñon oil. Pour into a small container and let it cool. This is a deeply moisturizing and uniquely Taos remedy.
Honey and Sugar Scrub: Gently exfoliating your lips can help remove dead skin and allow your lip balm to penetrate better. Mix a teaspoon of honey with a pinch of sugar and gently rub it on your lips in a circular motion. Rinse with warm water and apply lip balm immediately. Do this no more than once a week.
Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them:
Licking Your Lips: This is the worst thing you can do. Saliva evaporates quickly, leaving your lips even drier. Break the habit!
Using Flavored Lip Balms: Those tempting flavors often contain ingredients that can irritate and dry out your lips. Stick to plain, unscented balms.
Not Reapplying Often Enough: Lip balm isn’t a one-and-done application. Reapply frequently, especially after eating, drinking, or being outside.
Ignoring the Cracks: If your lips are already cracked and bleeding, don’t just keep applying lip balm. You may need a healing ointment like Aquaphor or Vaseline to create a protective barrier and allow your lips to heal.
Real-World Scenarios:
Skiing on Taos Mountain: Apply SPF lip balm before you even leave your house. Reapply every two hours while you’re on the slopes. Consider wearing a face mask or scarf to protect your lips from the wind.
Hiking in the High Desert: The sun is just as intense in the desert as it is on the mountain. Wear a hat with a brim to shade your face and reapply SPF lip balm frequently.
Visiting the Taos Pueblo: The open plaza can be very windy and exposed. Keep your lips protected with lip balm and a scarf.
Beyond Lip Balm: Humidification. Consider using a humidifier in your home, especially in your bedroom. This will add moisture to the air and help prevent your lips from drying out overnight.
When to See a Doctor: If your chapped lips are severe, persistent, or accompanied by other symptoms like fever or rash, see a doctor. You may have a secondary infection or another underlying condition.
Taos Tears are a real challenge, but with the right strategy, you can keep your lips healthy and happy, even in the driest of conditions. Embrace the local remedies, stay hydrated, and protect your lips from the sun and wind. Now go enjoy that Taos sunshine!