Taos Water: Altitude Lies Cracking Summer Skin?

By Franklin Everett Shaw

January 26, 2026

The desert air whispers secrets of resilience, but it also steals moisture with ruthless efficiency. Many visitors to Taos, New Mexico, arrive expecting a dry heat, but are unprepared for the intensity of the sun combined with the altitude’s dehydrating effects. This combination can wreak havoc on your skin, leading to unexpected dryness, accelerated aging, and even sunburns that feel far more intense than at sea level.

Adapting your skincare routine is not just a luxury here; it’s a necessity.

Here’s a step-by-step guide to combatting summer skin dryness in Taos, with product recommendations you can find at local retailers like Cid’s Food Market, Taos Pharmacy, or even the Taos Mesa Brewing Mothership (they stock some surprisingly good sunscreen!).

Step 1: Hydration, Hydration, Hydration (Inside and Out)

The first line of defense is internal hydration. Don’t just sip water; chug it. Aim for at least a gallon of water a day, especially if you’re active.

Consider adding electrolytes to your water, especially if you’re hiking or spending time outdoors. The altitude can increase electrolyte loss.

• Product Recommendation: Look for electrolyte tablets or powders at Cid’s Food Market. Nuun tablets are a good option.

Step 2: Gentle Cleansing is Key

Harsh cleansers strip your skin of its natural oils, exacerbating dryness. Switch to a gentle, hydrating cleanser, preferably one that’s oil-based or cream-based.

Avoid foaming cleansers, as they tend to be more drying.

• Product Recommendation: The Taos Pharmacy often carries Cetaphil Gentle Skin Cleanser, a classic for a reason. It’s affordable and effective.

Step 3: Hyaluronic Acid is Your Best Friend

Hyaluronic acid is a humectant, meaning it draws moisture from the air into your skin. In a dry climate like Taos, it’s crucial to apply it to damp skin to maximize its effectiveness.

Apply your hyaluronic acid serum immediately after cleansing, while your skin is still wet.

• Product Recommendation: Look for a hyaluronic acid serum at Taos Pharmacy. The Ordinary Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5 is a budget-friendly and effective option if they carry it.

Step 4: Lock in Moisture with a Rich Moisturizer

After applying your hyaluronic acid serum, seal it in with a rich, emollient moisturizer. Look for ingredients like shea butter, ceramides, or squalane.

Apply your moisturizer liberally, especially at night.

• Product Recommendation: Check out the selection at Cid’s. Look for moisturizers containing natural oils like jojoba or argan oil. These are often locally sourced.

Step 5: Sunscreen is Non-Negotiable

The sun in Taos is intense. The higher altitude means less atmosphere to filter out harmful UV rays. Wear a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher every single day, even on cloudy days.

Reapply sunscreen every two hours, or more frequently if you’re sweating or swimming. Don’t forget your lips!

• Product Recommendation: The Taos Mesa Brewing Mothership surprisingly carries sunscreen. Look for mineral sunscreens containing zinc oxide or titanium dioxide. These are generally considered safer and more effective.

Step 6: Don’t Forget Your Hands and Feet

Your hands and feet are often neglected, but they’re just as susceptible to dryness as your face. Apply a rich hand cream and foot cream regularly, especially after washing your hands or showering.

Consider wearing gloves while doing dishes or gardening to protect your hands.

• Product Recommendation: Look for hand and foot creams at Taos Pharmacy. O’Keeffe’s Working Hands is a great option for severely dry hands.

Step 7: Humidify Your Home

If you’re spending a lot of time indoors, consider using a humidifier to add moisture to the air. This can help prevent your skin from drying out.

Place a humidifier in your bedroom to help you stay hydrated while you sleep.

Step 8: Exfoliate Gently

Exfoliating helps remove dead skin cells, allowing your moisturizer to penetrate more effectively. However, be careful not to over-exfoliate, as this can further irritate dry skin.

Use a gentle exfoliating scrub or a chemical exfoliant (like lactic acid) once or twice a week.

• Product Recommendation: Look for gentle exfoliating scrubs at Cid’s. Avoid harsh scrubs with large particles, as these can damage your skin.

Step 9: Lip Care is Crucial

Dry, cracked lips are a common problem in Taos. Carry a lip balm with you at all times and apply it frequently.

Look for lip balms containing beeswax, shea butter, or coconut oil. Avoid lip balms with menthol or camphor, as these can be drying.

• Product Recommendation: Burt’s Bees lip balm is widely available at both Cid’s and Taos Pharmacy.

Step 10: Adapt Your Routine Based on Activity

If you’re spending a lot of time outdoors, you’ll need to adjust your skincare routine accordingly. Apply sunscreen more frequently, and consider wearing protective clothing, such as a hat and sunglasses.

After spending time outdoors, cleanse your skin gently and apply a hydrating mask.

Common Pitfalls and How to Avoid Them:

• Over-exfoliating: Many people think that if their skin is dry, they need to exfoliate more. This is a mistake. Over-exfoliating can strip your skin of its natural oils and make dryness worse. Stick to exfoliating once or twice a week.
• Using harsh soaps: Harsh soaps can dry out your skin. Switch to a gentle, hydrating cleanser.
• Not drinking enough water: Dehydration is a major contributor to dry skin. Drink plenty of water throughout the day.
• Forgetting sunscreen: Sunscreen is essential for protecting your skin from the sun’s harmful rays. Apply sunscreen every day, even on cloudy days.
• Ignoring your hands and feet: Your hands and feet are just as susceptible to dryness as your face. Apply a rich hand cream and foot cream regularly.

Real-World Scenario:

Imagine you’re visiting Taos for a week of hiking and exploring. You arrive with your usual skincare routine, but after a few days, your skin feels tight, dry, and itchy. You notice that your lips are cracked and your hands are rough.

This is a classic example of how the Taos climate can affect your skin. To combat these effects, follow the steps outlined above. Drink plenty of water, apply sunscreen regularly, use a gentle cleanser and moisturizer, and don’t forget your hands and feet.

By adapting your skincare routine to the unique challenges of the Taos climate, you can keep your skin healthy, hydrated, and protected. Don’t let the dry air and intense sun ruin your vacation. Be prepared, be proactive, and enjoy the beauty of Taos without sacrificing your skin’s health.