Taos Air: Altitude Sun Cracking Summer Lips?

By Franklin Everett Shaw

January 26, 2026

The biting wind whips across the Sangre de Cristo Mountains, and the sun, oh, that Taos sun! It beats down with an intensity that can leave your lips feeling like cracked earth. Forget subtle dryness; we’re talking full-blown, painful, bleeding chapped lips. But fear not, fellow Taoseños and visitors, because surviving the elements with a smile is entirely possible.

This isn’t your average, run-of-the-mill lip balm guide. This is a hyper-local survival manual for your pout, tailored specifically to the unique challenges of Taos, New Mexico. We’ll delve into the best over-the-counter options you can find right here in town, and even explore some DIY remedies using ingredients you might find at the Taos Farmers Market.

First, let’s understand the enemy. Taos sits at a staggering 6,969 feet above sea level. This altitude means thinner air, which translates to less protection from the sun’s harmful UV rays. The sun is stronger here. Add to that the dry desert air, which sucks moisture from your skin faster than you can say “O’Keeffe,” and you’ve got a recipe for seriously chapped lips.

Many people make the mistake of thinking any old lip balm will do. They reach for the flavored stuff, the kind with artificial sweeteners and fragrances. Big mistake. These ingredients can actually irritate your lips, leading to a vicious cycle of application and dryness.

So, what works? Look for lip balms with these key ingredients:

Beeswax: A natural emollient that creates a protective barrier against the elements.
Shea Butter: Deeply moisturizing and soothing.
Lanolin: Another excellent emollient, though some people are sensitive to it.
Zinc Oxide or Titanium Dioxide: Physical sunscreens that provide broad-spectrum UV protection.
Hyaluronic Acid: Helps to attract and retain moisture.

Now, let’s get specific. Here are some lip balm recommendations you can find right here in Taos:

Badger Balm (available at Cid’s Food Market): Badger Balm is a solid choice. Their classic balm contains beeswax, olive oil, and aloe vera. It’s simple, effective, and readily available. Look for the SPF versions for added sun protection.
Burt’s Bees (available at Walgreens and Smith’s): While not the most potent option, Burt’s Bees is widely accessible. Opt for the original beeswax balm, and reapply frequently. Be aware that some people find the peppermint oil slightly irritating, so if you have sensitive lips, proceed with caution.
Dr. Bronner’s Organic Lip Balm (available at Taos Mesa Brewing Mothership and Cid’s): Dr. Bronner’s offers a range of organic lip balms with ingredients like beeswax, coconut oil, and avocado oil. They’re a good option for those seeking a more natural product.
For serious cases, Aquaphor (available at Walgreens and Smith’s): Aquaphor is a heavy-duty ointment that creates a protective barrier to lock in moisture. It’s not the most glamorous, but it’s incredibly effective for healing severely chapped lips. Apply it liberally before bed.

Don’t underestimate the power of sun protection. Look for lip balms with an SPF of 30 or higher. Reapply every two hours, especially when you’re spending time outdoors. Even on cloudy days, the sun’s rays can still damage your lips.

Now, let’s talk DIY. Taos is a haven for natural ingredients, and you can whip up your own lip balm using locally sourced beeswax and honey.

Here’s a simple recipe:

Taos Honey & Beeswax Lip Balm

1 tablespoon beeswax (available at the Taos Farmers Market or online)
1 tablespoon coconut oil
1 teaspoon Taos honey (local honey is best!)
A few drops of essential oil (optional; lavender or chamomile are soothing)

Instructions:

Melt the beeswax and coconut oil in a double boiler or a heat-safe bowl set over a pot of simmering water.
Once melted, remove from heat and stir in the honey and essential oil (if using).
Pour the mixture into small containers (empty lip balm tubes or small jars).
Let cool completely before using.

This DIY balm is incredibly moisturizing and protective. The beeswax creates a barrier, the coconut oil nourishes, and the honey has antibacterial properties.

One common mistake people make is licking their lips when they feel dry. This is the worst thing you can do. Saliva contains enzymes that break down food, and these enzymes can also irritate your lips. Licking your lips only provides temporary relief, and it actually makes the dryness worse in the long run.

Another pitfall is forgetting to exfoliate. Gently exfoliating your lips can remove dead skin cells and allow your lip balm to penetrate more effectively. You can use a soft toothbrush or a sugar scrub. Mix a little sugar with honey or olive oil and gently rub it on your lips in a circular motion. Rinse with warm water.

Staying hydrated is also crucial. Drink plenty of water throughout the day to keep your skin hydrated from the inside out. This is especially important in the dry climate of Taos.

Consider using a humidifier, especially at night. A humidifier adds moisture to the air, which can help prevent your lips from drying out.

Finally, be patient. Healing severely chapped lips takes time and consistency. Don’t expect overnight miracles. Apply lip balm frequently, stay hydrated, and protect your lips from the sun and wind.

Remember, prevention is key. Don’t wait until your lips are cracked and bleeding to start taking care of them. Make lip balm a part of your daily routine, just like brushing your teeth.

By following these tips, you can keep your lips healthy and happy, even in the harsh climate of Taos. So go ahead, explore the mountains, soak up the sun, and enjoy all that this beautiful place has to offer, without worrying about your pout.