Denver's D: Altitude Sun Hiding Burn?
By Franklin Everett ShawImagine stepping out of the Denver airport, ready to explore the majestic Rocky Mountains. The sun feels warm, inviting even. But don’t be fooled. That seemingly gentle warmth can quickly turn into a painful burn, a souvenir you definitely don’t want. Denver’s altitude and clear skies create a perfect storm for sunburn, making sun protection not just a suggestion, but a necessity.
Denver, the Mile High City, sits at an elevation of 5,280 feet (1,609 meters). This altitude means the atmosphere is thinner, filtering less of the sun’s harmful ultraviolet (UV) radiation. For every 1,000 feet you ascend, UV radiation increases by approximately 4-5%. That means Denverites are exposed to roughly 20-25% more UV radiation than someone at sea level.
Adding to the problem, Denver boasts an average of 300 days of sunshine per year. Clear skies mean fewer clouds to block those UV rays. This combination of high altitude and abundant sunshine significantly increases the risk of sunburn, even on seemingly mild days.
So, how do you protect yourself? It starts with understanding SPF. SPF, or Sun Protection Factor, measures how well a sunscreen protects you from UVB rays, the primary cause of sunburn. However, it doesn’t measure protection from UVA rays, which contribute to skin aging and skin cancer.
For Denver’s intense sun, a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher is crucial. Broad-spectrum means the sunscreen protects against both UVA and UVB rays. Don’t be swayed by marketing hype promising SPF 100 or higher. Studies show that SPF values above 50 offer only marginally better protection, and the higher SPF can give a false sense of security, leading to less frequent application.
Choosing the right sunscreen is only half the battle. Proper application is key. Most people don’t apply enough sunscreen. You should use about one ounce (about a shot glass full) to cover your entire body. Don’t forget often-missed areas like your ears, the back of your neck, and the tops of your feet.
Timing is also critical. Apply sunscreen at least 15-30 minutes before sun exposure to allow it to bind to your skin. Reapply every two hours, or more frequently if you’re swimming or sweating. Even “water-resistant” sunscreens lose effectiveness after 40-80 minutes in the water.
A common mistake is thinking you only need sunscreen on sunny days. UV radiation is present even on cloudy days. Up to 80% of the sun’s UV rays can penetrate clouds. So, make sunscreen a daily habit, regardless of the weather.
Beyond sunscreen, sun-protective clothing is your next line of defense. Look for clothing with an Ultraviolet Protection Factor (UPF) rating. UPF indicates how much UV radiation the fabric blocks. A UPF of 50 means the fabric blocks 98% of UV rays.
Wide-brimmed hats are essential for protecting your face, ears, and neck. Sunglasses with UV protection are crucial for shielding your eyes from harmful UV radiation, which can lead to cataracts and other eye problems.
When hiking or engaging in outdoor activities, consider wearing long sleeves and pants, even if it’s warm. Lightweight, breathable fabrics with UPF protection are ideal for staying cool and protected. Brands like Columbia, Patagonia, and REI offer a wide range of sun-protective clothing specifically designed for outdoor adventures.
Recognizing sunburn early is crucial, especially in Denver’s dry climate, which can exacerbate the effects. Symptoms include red, painful skin, blistering, and itching. Altitude sickness can sometimes mimic or worsen sunburn symptoms, making it important to differentiate between the two.
If you get sunburned, get out of the sun immediately. Cool compresses and aloe vera gel can help soothe the skin. Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated, as sunburn can draw moisture away from the body. Avoid picking or popping blisters, as this can increase the risk of infection.
In severe cases, sunburn can cause fever, chills, nausea, and dehydration. Seek medical attention if you experience these symptoms. A doctor can prescribe stronger pain relief and anti-inflammatory medications.
Denver’s dry climate also requires a proactive skincare routine to prevent sunburn and minimize its effects. Dry skin is more susceptible to sun damage. Moisturize your skin daily, especially after showering or bathing. Look for moisturizers containing ingredients like hyaluronic acid and ceramides, which help to hydrate and protect the skin barrier.
Consider using a humidifier, especially during the winter months, to add moisture to the air and prevent your skin from drying out. Avoid harsh soaps and cleansers that can strip your skin of its natural oils.
Finally, be mindful of reflective surfaces. Snow, water, and sand can reflect UV radiation, increasing your exposure. When skiing or snowboarding in the mountains near Denver, remember that snow reflects up to 80% of UV rays, significantly increasing your risk of sunburn. Apply sunscreen liberally and wear sunglasses with UV protection.
Protecting yourself from the sun in Denver requires a multi-faceted approach. Understanding the increased UV radiation due to altitude, choosing the right SPF, applying sunscreen correctly and frequently, wearing sun-protective clothing, and maintaining a proactive skincare routine are all essential steps. By taking these precautions, you can enjoy all that the Mile High City has to offer without risking a painful and potentially harmful sunburn. So, go ahead, explore those mountains, but do it safely!