**Dark Skin, Aspen: Altitude Lies About Sunburn?**

By Franklin Everett Shaw

December 31, 2025

The crisp mountain air bites at your cheeks, a welcome contrast to the sun’s warmth as you step out of your luxury condo in Aspen. You’re ready to hit the slopes, or maybe just stroll through town, soaking in the rarefied atmosphere. But even though you’re Black, and you know Black people don’t burn as easily, something feels…off. That feeling is your intuition screaming at you to slather on the sunscreen.

It’s a dangerous misconception that darker skin tones are immune to sun damage, especially in high-altitude environments like Aspen, Colorado. The sun’s intensity increases significantly with elevation, and the reflective properties of snow amplify UV radiation, creating a perfect storm for sunburn, even on a cloudy day. This isn’t just about avoiding a painful burn; it’s about long-term skin health and preventing premature aging and skin cancer.

Let’s break down why Aspen poses a unique risk, and how you can protect your skin, regardless of your melanin levels.

The Altitude Factor: Aspen sits at nearly 8,000 feet above sea level. For every 1,000 feet of elevation gain, UV radiation increases by approximately 4-5%. That means in Aspen, you’re exposed to roughly 32-40% more UV radiation than you would be at sea level.

Snow’s Reflective Power: Fresh snow reflects up to 80% of UV radiation. This means that even if the sun isn’t directly overhead, you’re still being bombarded with UV rays bouncing off the snow-covered ground. This is why you can get sunburned even on a cloudy day in Aspen; the clouds might block some direct sunlight, but they don’t stop the reflected UV radiation.

Melanin Isn’t a Shield: While melanin does offer some natural protection against UV radiation, it’s not a complete shield. Darker skin tones have a higher concentration of melanin, providing a natural SPF of around 13. However, this is still far less than the recommended SPF of 30 or higher.

The Underestimation Problem: Many dark-skinned individuals underestimate their risk of sunburn, leading to inadequate sun protection. This is often due to the misconception that melanin provides complete immunity, or the belief that sunburns are less visible on darker skin.

Recognizing Sun Damage on Darker Skin: Sunburns on darker skin may not appear as red as they do on lighter skin. Instead, they may present as:

• Increased skin sensitivity or tenderness.
• Darkening of the skin.
• Peeling or flaking.
• Hyperpigmentation (dark spots).

Ignoring these early signs can lead to more severe sun damage and increase the risk of skin cancer.

Choosing the Right Sunscreen in Aspen: Not all sunscreens are created equal, especially for high-altitude environments. Look for these key features:

• Broad Spectrum Protection: This means the sunscreen protects against both UVA and UVB rays. UVA rays contribute to premature aging, while UVB rays cause sunburn.
• SPF 30 or Higher: SPF (Sun Protection Factor) measures how well a sunscreen protects against UVB rays. SPF 30 blocks about 97% of UVB rays, while SPF 50 blocks about 98%.
• Water Resistance: Choose a water-resistant sunscreen, especially if you’ll be sweating or participating in water activities. However, remember that “water-resistant” doesn’t mean waterproof. You’ll still need to reapply sunscreen every two hours, or immediately after swimming or sweating.
• Mineral vs. Chemical Sunscreen: Mineral sunscreens (containing zinc oxide or titanium dioxide) are generally considered safer for sensitive skin and the environment. They work by creating a physical barrier that reflects UV rays. Chemical sunscreens absorb UV rays and convert them into heat. Both types are effective, but mineral sunscreens are often preferred.

A Practical Guide to Sun Protection in Aspen:

1. Check the UV Index: Before heading out, check the UV index forecast for Aspen. The higher the UV index, the greater the risk of sun damage. You can find this information on weather apps or websites.
2. Apply Sunscreen Generously: Apply sunscreen liberally 15-30 minutes before sun exposure. Don’t skimp! Use about one ounce (a shot glass full) to cover your entire body.
3. Reapply Frequently: Reapply sunscreen every two hours, or immediately after swimming or sweating. Set a timer on your phone to remind you.
4. Cover Up: Wear protective clothing, such as long sleeves, pants, and a wide-brimmed hat. Darker colors offer more protection than lighter colors.
5. Seek Shade: Take breaks in the shade, especially during peak sun hours (10 a.m. to 4 p.m.).
6. Protect Your Eyes: Wear sunglasses that block 100% of UVA and UVB rays. Snow blindness is a real risk in Aspen.
7. Hydrate: Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated. Sunburn can dehydrate you.
8. Don’t Forget Your Lips: Use a lip balm with SPF 30 or higher.
9. Be Mindful of Medications: Some medications can increase your sensitivity to the sun. Check with your doctor or pharmacist if you’re taking any medications that might make you more susceptible to sunburn.
10. Consider Altitude Sickness: While not directly related to sunburn, altitude sickness can weaken your body and make you more vulnerable to sun damage. Acclimatize gradually and stay hydrated.

Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them:

• Applying Sunscreen Only on Sunny Days: UV radiation is present even on cloudy days.
• Not Applying Enough Sunscreen: Most people don’t apply enough sunscreen. Use the recommended amount (one ounce for the body).
• Forgetting to Reapply: Reapplication is crucial, especially after swimming or sweating.
• Ignoring Early Signs of Sunburn: Pay attention to your skin and seek shade if you notice any signs of sun damage.
• Using Expired Sunscreen: Sunscreen has an expiration date. Check the label and discard expired sunscreen.
• Relying Solely on Sunscreen: Sunscreen is just one part of sun protection. Combine it with protective clothing, shade, and sunglasses.

Real-World Scenario: Imagine you’re in Aspen for a ski trip. You’re Black, so you think you’re good to go with just a light layer of sunscreen on your face. You spend the entire day on the slopes, enjoying the fresh powder and breathtaking views. By the end of the day, your face feels tight and sensitive. You look in the mirror and notice that your skin is darker than usual. You’ve got a sunburn.

The Solution: Next time, apply a broad-spectrum, water-resistant sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher to all exposed skin, including your face, neck, and ears. Reapply every two hours, or immediately after sweating. Wear a ski mask or balaclava to protect your face from the sun and wind. And don’t forget your sunglasses!

Aspen’s allure is undeniable, but its high-altitude environment demands respect, especially when it comes to sun protection. Don’t let the misconception that darker skin is immune to sun damage ruin your trip. By understanding the risks and taking the necessary precautions, you can enjoy Aspen’s outdoor activities safely and confidently, regardless of your skin tone. Remember, prevention is always better than cure. Protect your skin, and enjoy the beauty of Aspen!