Taos Air: Altitude Sun Cracking Lip Balm Youth?
By Franklin Everett ShawThe sting of sunburned lips is a special kind of misery, especially when you’re trying to enjoy the breathtaking views from the top of Wheeler Peak. But it doesn’t have to be that way.
Here’s your guide to keeping your lips happy and healthy while exploring Taos, New Mexico.
Understanding the Taos Lip Challenge
Taos presents a triple threat to your lips: sun, altitude, and dryness. The sun’s intensity increases with altitude, meaning you’re getting blasted with more UV radiation on the slopes of Taos Ski Valley than you would be at sea level. The dry mountain air sucks moisture from your skin, and that includes your lips. This leads to chapping, cracking, and even painful sunburn.
Taos Air Lip Balm: Your First Line of Defense
Taos Air, while known for its exclusive flights, also offers a lip balm that’s surprisingly well-suited for the local environment. It’s not just a branding exercise; it’s a practical tool.
Sun Protection: The key is to check the SPF. Look for a Taos Air lip balm with an SPF of 30 or higher. This will block a significant portion of the sun’s harmful UVB rays, preventing sunburn.
Moisturization: Ingredients like beeswax, shea butter, or coconut oil are crucial for locking in moisture and preventing chapping.
Application Frequency: Don’t just apply it once in the morning. Reapply every two hours, especially when you’re skiing, hiking, or spending extended periods outdoors. Think of it like sunscreen – consistent application is key.
Does Taos Air Lip Balm Work for Sun Protection on Wheeler Peak?
Yes, if you use it correctly. A lip balm with SPF 30 or higher, reapplied frequently, will provide significant protection against sunburn on Wheeler Peak. However, remember that lip balm can wear off from eating, drinking, or simply talking. Don’t rely solely on the lip balm; consider a wide-brimmed hat to shade your face and lips.
Where Can You Buy Taos Air Lip Balm Locally If You Forgot Yours?
While Taos Air might not have a dedicated storefront in town, you can find their lip balm (or similar high-quality alternatives) at several locations:
Taos Ski Valley: Check the gift shops and pharmacies in the base area. They often carry a range of sun protection products, including lip balms.
Taos Plaza: Several shops around the Plaza sell skincare and personal care items. Look for stores specializing in natural or locally made products.
Pharmacies and Grocery Stores: Major pharmacies like Walgreens or Smith’s, and grocery stores like Cid’s Market, will have a selection of lip balms with SPF.
Outdoor Retailers: Stores like Cottam’s Ski Shops or Taos Mountain Outfitters are likely to carry lip balms designed for high-altitude conditions.
Beyond Lip Balm: A Holistic Approach to Lip Care in Taos
Lip balm is essential, but it’s not the only piece of the puzzle. Here’s a more comprehensive strategy:
Hydration: Drink plenty of water. Dehydration exacerbates dry skin, including your lips. Carry a water bottle and sip throughout the day.
Avoid Licking Your Lips: This is a common mistake. Saliva evaporates quickly, leaving your lips even drier.
Nighttime Treatment: Before bed, apply a thick layer of a moisturizing ointment like Aquaphor or Vaseline. This will help repair and hydrate your lips overnight.
Exfoliation (Gently): If your lips are flaky, gently exfoliate them with a soft toothbrush or a damp washcloth. Don’t overdo it, as this can cause irritation.
Diet: A diet rich in healthy fats and vitamins can improve skin health. Consider incorporating foods like avocados, nuts, and fatty fish into your meals.
Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them
Using Expired Lip Balm: Sunscreen ingredients degrade over time. Check the expiration date on your lip balm and replace it if it’s expired.
Choosing Flavored Lip Balms: Flavored lip balms can tempt you to lick your lips more often, leading to dryness. Opt for unflavored or lightly flavored options.
Ignoring Early Signs of Sunburn: If your lips start to feel tight or tingly, it’s a sign of sun damage. Apply lip balm with SPF immediately and seek shade.
Relying on Lipstick for Sun Protection: While some lipsticks contain SPF, they often don’t provide adequate coverage. Use a dedicated lip balm with SPF underneath your lipstick.
Real-World Scenario: Hiking to Williams Lake
Imagine you’re planning a hike to Williams Lake, a beautiful alpine lake near Taos Ski Valley. The elevation gain is significant, and you’ll be exposed to intense sunlight.
Before You Go: Apply a generous layer of Taos Air lip balm (or a similar product with SPF 30+) before you leave your lodging.
During the Hike: Reapply the lip balm every two hours, or more frequently if you’re sweating or eating.
At the Lake: Even if it’s cloudy, the UV rays can still penetrate. Continue to reapply lip balm and wear a hat.
After the Hike: Apply a moisturizing ointment to your lips before bed to help them recover.
Treating Sunburned Lips
If you do get sunburned lips, don’t panic. Here’s how to treat them:
Cool Compress: Apply a cool, damp cloth to your lips for 10-15 minutes several times a day.
Aloe Vera: Aloe vera gel can soothe and heal sunburned skin. Apply it liberally to your lips.
Pain Relief: Over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen or acetaminophen can help reduce pain and inflammation.
Avoid Irritants: Stay away from spicy or acidic foods, which can irritate sunburned lips.
See a Doctor: If your sunburn is severe, or if you develop blisters or signs of infection, consult a doctor.
The Takeaway
Protecting your lips in Taos requires a proactive approach. By understanding the challenges of sun, altitude, and dryness, and by using the right products and strategies, you can keep your lips healthy and enjoy all that this beautiful region has to offer. Don’t let sunburned lips ruin your Taos adventure. Be prepared, be consistent, and enjoy the views!