**Santa Fe Sunscreen: Altitude Stealing SPF?**
By Franklin Everett ShawThe sun feels different here. It’s not just the dry air or the stunning mountain views; it’s the intensity. You can feel it baking into your skin even on a seemingly mild day. But is that feeling just perception, or is the sun actually stronger in Santa Fe?
The answer, unequivocally, is yes.
Santa Fe, New Mexico, sits at an elevation of approximately 7,200 feet above sea level. This altitude significantly impacts the amount of ultraviolet (UV) radiation that reaches your skin. The higher you go, the less atmosphere there is to filter out those harmful rays.
For every 1,000 feet of elevation gain, UV levels increase by roughly 4-5%. That means in Santa Fe, you’re exposed to approximately 25-35% more UV radiation than you would be at sea level. That’s a huge difference.
So, does your standard SPF 30 sunscreen offer the same protection in Santa Fe as it does in, say, Miami? Not exactly.
SPF, or Sun Protection Factor, measures how well a sunscreen protects against UVB rays, the primary cause of sunburn. It doesn’t directly measure protection against UVA rays, which contribute to skin aging and some skin cancers. An SPF of 30 blocks about 97% of UVB rays.
However, that percentage assumes a certain level of UV intensity. When you increase the UV intensity by 30%, as you do in Santa Fe, that SPF 30 is effectively working harder, and its protective capacity is somewhat diminished.
Think of it like this: your sunscreen is a shield. At sea level, the shield is deflecting a certain number of UV “arrows.” In Santa Fe, there are significantly more “arrows” being fired at the shield. While the shield still blocks most of them, more are getting through than it was designed for.
Therefore, in Santa Fe, you need to be more diligent about sunscreen application and consider using a higher SPF.
Here’s a guide to selecting and applying sunscreen for optimal protection in Santa Fe:
Choose a Broad-Spectrum Sunscreen: This means the sunscreen protects against both UVA and UVB rays. Look for the words “broad spectrum” on the label.
Opt for SPF 30 or Higher: While SPF 30 is generally recommended, in Santa Fe, consider SPF 50 or even higher, especially if you’re fair-skinned or spend extended periods outdoors.
Apply Generously: Most people don’t use enough sunscreen. You need about one ounce (a shot glass full) to cover your entire body.
Reapply Frequently: Reapply sunscreen every two hours, or more often if you’re sweating or swimming. Don’t skimp!
Don’t Forget Often-Missed Spots: Ears, neck, tops of feet, and scalp are common areas that get overlooked.
Consider the Time of Day: The sun’s rays are strongest between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. Try to limit your exposure during these hours, or take extra precautions.
You can find excellent sunscreen options at local pharmacies like Walgreens and CVS in Santa Fe. Look for brands like:
Neutrogena: Offers a range of broad-spectrum sunscreens, including Ultra Sheer Dry-Touch and Age Shield Face.
La Roche-Posay: Known for its high-quality, dermatologist-recommended sunscreens, such as Anthelios Melt-In Sunscreen Milk.
EltaMD: A popular choice among dermatologists, offering broad-spectrum sunscreens like UV Clear Broad-Spectrum SPF 46, which is great for sensitive skin.
CeraVe: Hydrating Sunscreen Body Lotion and Facial Lotion are readily available and provide good protection.
Beyond sunscreen, consider incorporating sun-protective clothing into your wardrobe. Many outdoorsy Santa Fe residents swear by brands like:
Coolibar: Specializes in UPF (Ultraviolet Protection Factor) clothing, offering a wide range of styles for men, women, and children.
REI Co-op: Carries a variety of sun-protective clothing from different brands, including their own REI Co-op Sahara Shade line.
Columbia: Offers a range of clothing with Omni-Shade technology, which provides UPF protection.
Patagonia: Known for its high-quality outdoor gear, including sun-protective shirts and hats.
These brands use fabrics that are specifically designed to block UV rays. Look for clothing with a UPF rating of 30 or higher.
A common mistake developers make when thinking about sun protection is assuming that a single application of sunscreen in the morning is sufficient. It’s not. Sunscreen breaks down over time, especially when exposed to sunlight, sweat, and water.
Another pitfall is relying solely on sunscreen and neglecting other forms of sun protection, such as hats, sunglasses, and shade. A wide-brimmed hat can protect your face, ears, and neck, while sunglasses can shield your eyes from harmful UV rays.
Finally, many people underestimate the importance of protecting their skin even on cloudy days. UV rays can penetrate clouds, so it’s essential to wear sunscreen and protective clothing regardless of the weather.
Living in Santa Fe is a privilege. The stunning landscapes and vibrant culture are unparalleled. But it’s crucial to respect the power of the sun at this altitude. By understanding the increased UV exposure and taking the necessary precautions, you can enjoy all that Santa Fe has to offer while protecting your skin from sun damage. Don’t just slap on some sunscreen; make sun protection a conscious and consistent part of your daily routine. Your skin will thank you for it.