Taos Air: Altitude Sun Stealing HA Youth?

By Franklin Everett Shaw

January 7, 2026

Imagine stepping off a Taos Air flight, the crisp mountain air filling your lungs. You’re ready to hit the slopes, explore the art galleries, or simply soak in the unique New Mexico vibe. But wait, did you consider what that high-altitude sun and thinner atmosphere are doing to your skin? For those of us escaping the relative sea-level existence of cities like Dallas or Houston, a quick trip to Taos requires a serious skin-health strategy. We’re not just talking about a little sunburn; we’re talking about accelerated aging.

The problem isn’t just the sun; it’s the intensity of the sun at 7,000 feet.

The atmosphere filters out a significant portion of harmful UV radiation. At higher altitudes, there’s less atmosphere to do the filtering. This means you’re exposed to a much higher dose of UV rays compared to lower elevations. For every 1,000 feet you ascend, UV radiation increases by approximately 4-5%. Taos, at roughly 7,000 feet, delivers a significantly stronger solar punch than Dallas or Houston.

Think of it this way: it’s like holding a magnifying glass closer to the sun.

Now, consider the reflection. Snow, a common sight in Taos during the ski season, reflects up to 80% of UV radiation. This means you’re getting hit from above and below. Even without snow, the dry desert air offers less humidity to absorb or deflect UV rays, further intensifying the exposure.

So, is a short trip to Taos enough to wreak havoc on your skin? The answer is a qualified yes. A weekend of unprotected sun exposure at high altitude can absolutely contribute to premature aging, increasing your risk of wrinkles, sunspots, and even skin cancer over time. It’s cumulative damage.

Here’s why: UV radiation damages collagen and elastin, the proteins that keep your skin firm and elastic. This damage leads to wrinkles, sagging, and a leathery texture. It also triggers the production of melanin, leading to sunspots and uneven skin tone. The effects might not be immediately visible, but they accumulate over time, accelerating the aging process.

But don’t cancel your Taos vacation just yet. The key is proactive protection.

Here’s a practical, no-nonsense strategy to shield your skin:

Sunscreen is Non-Negotiable: This isn’t just for the beach. Apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher every single day, even on cloudy days. UV rays penetrate clouds. Choose a mineral sunscreen containing zinc oxide or titanium dioxide. These are generally considered safer and more effective than chemical sunscreens. Apply liberally (at least one ounce for your entire body) 15-30 minutes before sun exposure, and reapply every two hours, or immediately after swimming or sweating. Don’t forget often-missed areas like your ears, neck, and the back of your hands.
Layer Up (Even When It’s Warm): Clothing is your first line of defense. Wear long sleeves, pants, and a wide-brimmed hat whenever possible. Look for clothing with a UPF (Ultraviolet Protection Factor) rating. A UPF of 50 means that only 1/50th of the sun’s UV radiation can penetrate the fabric. Many outdoor retailers now offer stylish and comfortable UPF-rated clothing.
Sunglasses are Essential: Protect your eyes and the delicate skin around them with sunglasses that block 100% of UVA and UVB rays. Look for wraparound styles to minimize peripheral exposure.
Hydrate, Hydrate, Hydrate: High altitude and dry air can dehydrate your skin, making it more vulnerable to sun damage. Drink plenty of water throughout the day. Consider using a hydrating moisturizer to replenish your skin’s moisture barrier.
Time Your Exposure: The sun’s rays are strongest between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. Try to limit your outdoor activities during these peak hours. If you must be outside, seek shade whenever possible.
Antioxidants are Your Friends: Incorporate antioxidant-rich foods and skincare products into your routine. Antioxidants help neutralize free radicals, which are unstable molecules that damage skin cells. Look for skincare products containing vitamin C, vitamin E, and green tea extract.
Don’t Forget Your Lips: Lips are particularly vulnerable to sun damage. Use a lip balm with an SPF of 30 or higher.

Let’s address some common pitfalls:

Thinking "A Little Sun Won’t Hurt": This is a dangerous mindset. Even short periods of unprotected sun exposure can contribute to cumulative damage.
Relying on Makeup with SPF: While makeup with SPF is better than nothing, it’s usually not enough. You’d need to apply a very thick layer of makeup to achieve the stated SPF, which is impractical. Use sunscreen as a base, and then apply makeup on top.
Forgetting to Reapply Sunscreen: This is perhaps the most common mistake. Sunscreen wears off over time, especially when you’re sweating or swimming. Set a timer on your phone to remind you to reapply every two hours.
Ignoring Cloudy Days: UV rays penetrate clouds, so you’re still at risk of sun damage even on overcast days.
Thinking You’re Safe Indoors: UV rays can penetrate windows, so you’re still exposed to some radiation even when you’re inside.

Here’s a real-world example: Imagine a Dallas resident, accustomed to occasional sunscreen use during summer pool days, taking a three-day ski trip to Taos. They apply a light layer of SPF 15 sunscreen in the morning and forget to reapply. By the end of the trip, their face is red and slightly burned. While the immediate redness fades, the underlying damage to collagen and elastin has already begun, contributing to premature aging down the line.

Contrast this with a Houston resident who understands the risks of high-altitude sun exposure. They apply a broad-spectrum SPF 50 sunscreen every two hours, wear a wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses, and seek shade during peak hours. They also drink plenty of water and use a hydrating moisturizer. This person is significantly better protected against sun damage.

The key takeaway is this: a short trip to Taos can impact your skin’s aging process, but the extent of the impact is largely within your control. By adopting a proactive sun protection strategy, you can enjoy the beauty and adventure of Taos without sacrificing your skin’s health. Don’t let the allure of the mountains overshadow the importance of protecting yourself from the sun’s intense rays. Your skin will thank you for it in the long run.