Taos Temps: Altitude Sun Lies Burning Lips?
By Franklin Everett ShawThe biting wind whips across your face, the sun glares off the snow-dusted peaks, and your lips feel like sandpaper. You’re in Taos, New Mexico, a land of stunning beauty and brutal environmental challenges. Many come seeking adventure, but unprepared visitors (and even long-time residents) often find themselves battling the elements, especially the dreaded chapped lips. It’s not just an annoyance; it’s a sign your body is struggling to adapt.
The problem in Taos isn’t just one thing; it’s a perfect storm. The high altitude sucks moisture from your skin, the intense sun relentlessly dries and burns, and the arid air offers little relief. This trifecta demands a proactive approach, not just a reactive swipe of whatever lip balm you find at the bottom of your bag.
So, how do you conquer this chapped-lip crisis in Taos? It’s a multi-pronged attack, combining the right products, local remedies, and smart hydration strategies.
First, let’s talk lip balm. Not all lip balms are created equal, and the cheap, petroleum-based sticks you find at the gas station will often make the problem worse. They create a temporary barrier but don’t actually hydrate, leading to a vicious cycle of application and dryness.
Instead, look for lip balms with natural ingredients that nourish and protect. Burt’s Bees is a readily available option at most stores in Taos (CVS, Walgreens, even Cid’s Food Market). The beeswax base provides a good barrier, and the peppermint oil offers a soothing sensation. However, for truly intense conditions, you need something more potent.
Consider Badger Balm’s Cocoa Butter Lip Balm. It’s a bit harder to find (check the natural food stores like Taos Mesa Brewing Mothership or the Taos Food Co-op), but the cocoa butter is incredibly moisturizing and creates a long-lasting protective layer. It also contains shea butter and olive oil, both known for their skin-healing properties.
Another excellent choice, and one that supports a local business, is a lip balm from Taos Bee Works. They often sell at the Taos Farmers Market and some local craft fairs. Their balms use locally sourced beeswax and honey, offering a truly Taos-specific solution. The honey acts as a humectant, drawing moisture to the lips, while the beeswax seals it in.
Speaking of honey, let’s delve into DIY remedies. Taos is surrounded by high-desert flora, and local honey is a readily available and powerful weapon against chapped lips. Simply apply a thin layer of raw honey to your lips and let it sit for 15-20 minutes before licking it off (or leaving it on if you can resist!). The enzymes in raw honey help to heal and moisturize the skin.
You can even create your own lip balm using beeswax from Taos Bee Works (or a similar source), coconut oil, and a few drops of essential oil (lavender or chamomile are good choices for soothing). Melt the beeswax and coconut oil together in a double boiler, then add the essential oil and pour into small containers to cool. This allows you to customize your lip balm to your specific needs and preferences.
However, even the best lip balm is just a Band-Aid if you’re not addressing the underlying issue: dehydration. The high altitude in Taos (over 7,000 feet) means your body loses water much faster than at sea level. You need to be proactive about hydration, especially when hiking or skiing.
Don’t wait until you feel thirsty to drink. Thirst is a sign that you’re already dehydrated. Carry a water bottle with you at all times and sip on it throughout the day. Aim for at least a gallon of water, especially if you’re physically active.
Consider adding electrolytes to your water, especially if you’re sweating a lot. Electrolytes help your body retain water and prevent dehydration. You can find electrolyte tablets or powders at most sporting goods stores in Taos (like Cottam’s Ski & Outdoor).
Avoid sugary drinks like soda and juice, as they can actually dehydrate you further. Alcohol is also a major culprit, so limit your intake, especially at higher altitudes. The Brian O’Tooles Magoo’s Pint & Plate is a great spot, but remember to hydrate between beers!
One often-overlooked aspect is nasal breathing. Many people breathe through their mouths, especially during exercise, which further dries out the lips. Consciously focus on breathing through your nose, which helps to humidify the air before it reaches your lungs.
Another challenge is the sun. The intense UV radiation in Taos can damage your lips, making them more susceptible to dryness and cracking. Look for lip balms with SPF 30 or higher, and reapply frequently, especially when spending time outdoors.
Don’t forget about exfoliation. Gently exfoliating your lips can remove dead skin cells and allow your lip balm to penetrate more effectively. You can use a soft toothbrush or a sugar scrub (mix sugar with a little honey or olive oil) to gently exfoliate your lips once or twice a week.
A common mistake is licking your lips when they feel dry. This actually makes the problem worse, as the saliva evaporates and further dries out the skin. Resist the urge to lick your lips and instead reach for your lip balm.
Finally, remember that prevention is key. Start hydrating and applying lip balm before you even arrive in Taos. This will give your body a head start in adapting to the harsh environment.
By combining the right lip balms, local remedies, and smart hydration strategies, you can conquer the chapped-lip crisis in Taos and enjoy all that this beautiful region has to offer without the discomfort of dry, cracked lips. So, pack your water bottle, grab your favorite lip balm, and get ready to explore! Just remember to listen to your body and adjust your strategy as needed. The high desert is unforgiving, but with a little preparation, you can thrive in this unique and stunning landscape.