Aspen Hikes: Is Altitude Sun Crashing Summer Lips?
By Franklin Everett ShawThe sting of windburn, the chapped agony of desert-dry lips – we’ve all been there. But hiking in Aspen, Colorado? That’s a whole different level of lip-related suffering. It’s not just wind; it’s a perfect storm of altitude, intense sun, and bone-dry air conspiring to inflict what I call “sun crashing” on your precious pout.
Aspen’s unique environment demands a specialized approach to lip care.
Let’s dive into how to keep your lips happy on the trails.
First, understand the enemy: altitude. At 8,000 feet (2,400 meters) and higher, the air is significantly thinner and drier than at sea level. This means your body loses moisture much faster, including from your lips.
The sun’s intensity is also amplified at higher altitudes. There’s less atmosphere to filter out harmful UV rays.
Aspen’s UV index can reach extreme levels, even on cloudy days.
This combination of intense sun and dry air rapidly depletes the natural oils in your lips, leading to dryness, cracking, and even painful sunburn.
“Sun crashing” isn’t just uncomfortable; it can lead to infections and make you miserable on your hike.
So, how do you fight back?
The first line of defense is preventative: lip balm. But not just any lip balm. You need a heavy-duty formula specifically designed for high-altitude, high-UV environments.
Look for lip balms containing these key ingredients:
- High SPF: Aim for SPF 30 or higher. Reapply religiously, every hour, especially after eating or drinking.
- Zinc Oxide or Titanium Dioxide: These are mineral sunscreens that provide broad-spectrum protection and are less likely to cause irritation than chemical sunscreens.
- Beeswax or Shea Butter: These are natural emollients that create a protective barrier on your lips, locking in moisture and shielding them from the elements.
- Lanolin: A highly effective moisturizer that mimics the skin’s natural oils.
- Hyaluronic Acid: This humectant attracts and binds moisture to the lips, keeping them hydrated.
Avoid lip balms containing:
- Camphor, Menthol, or Phenol: These ingredients can provide a temporary cooling sensation, but they actually dry out your lips in the long run.
- Artificial Fragrances or Flavors: These can irritate sensitive skin.
A great example of a lip balm suited for Aspen is the “Sun Bum SPF 30 Sunscreen Lip Balm.” It contains zinc oxide, shea butter, and is fragrance-free.
Another crucial preventative measure is hydration. Drink plenty of water before, during, and after your hike.
Dehydration exacerbates lip dryness.
Carry a reusable water bottle and sip frequently, even if you don’t feel thirsty.
Consider adding electrolytes to your water to help your body retain fluids.
Electrolyte tablets or powders are readily available at most outdoor retailers in Aspen.
Protective gear is also essential. A wide-brimmed hat will shield your face and lips from the sun.
Consider wearing a Buff or bandana to cover your mouth and nose, especially on windy days.
This will provide an extra layer of protection against the elements.
Now, let’s say you’ve already succumbed to “sun crashing.” Your lips are dry, cracked, and painful. What do you do?
Immediate treatment is key.
First, gently exfoliate your lips to remove any dead skin.
You can use a soft toothbrush or a damp washcloth.
Be very gentle to avoid further irritation.
Next, apply a thick layer of a healing ointment.
Look for ointments containing ingredients like:
- Petroleum Jelly: A classic occlusive that creates a protective barrier and prevents moisture loss.
- Aquaphor: A popular multi-purpose ointment that contains petroleum jelly, lanolin, and other moisturizing ingredients.
- Coconut Oil: A natural emollient with anti-inflammatory properties.
Apply the ointment liberally and frequently throughout the day.
Consider applying it before bed to allow it to work its magic overnight.
Avoid licking your lips. This will only make the dryness worse.
Saliva contains enzymes that break down the skin’s natural oils.
It’s a vicious cycle: you lick your lips to relieve the dryness, but the saliva actually dries them out even more.
If your lips are severely sunburned, you may need to apply a cold compress to reduce inflammation.
Soak a clean cloth in cold water and apply it to your lips for 10-15 minutes at a time.
You can also take an over-the-counter pain reliever, such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen, to help manage the pain.
In severe cases, you may need to see a doctor or dermatologist.
They can prescribe a stronger topical medication to help heal your lips.
One common mistake hikers make is waiting until their lips are already dry and cracked before applying lip balm.
Prevention is always better than cure.
Start applying lip balm before you even hit the trail, and reapply it frequently throughout your hike.
Another mistake is using expired lip balm.
The SPF in sunscreen degrades over time, so make sure your lip balm is still effective.
Check the expiration date on the tube.
Finally, don’t forget to protect your lips even when you’re not hiking.
Aspen’s dry climate can wreak havoc on your lips year-round.
Make lip balm a part of your daily routine.
Keep a tube in your pocket, your car, and your backpack.
By following these tips, you can protect your lips from the harsh elements of Aspen and enjoy your hikes without the pain and discomfort of “sun crashing.” Remember, a little preparation goes a long way in keeping your pout happy and healthy on the trails. So, slather on that SPF, stay hydrated, and get out there and explore the beauty of Aspen!