Taos Altitude: Sunscreen Lies Cracking Lips?
By Franklin Everett ShawThe sun in Taos doesn’t play around. It’s not the gentle, forgiving sun of a coastal town. It’s a high-altitude, intense beam that can leave you looking like a lobster in minutes. And the air? Dry enough to suck the moisture right out of your soul. But don’t despair! With the right knowledge and a few key products, you can enjoy the beauty of Taos without sacrificing your skin and lip health.
Taos, New Mexico, nestled high in the Sangre de Cristo Mountains, presents a unique challenge to skin and lip care. The altitude, typically around 7,000 feet, means thinner air and less atmospheric protection from the sun’s harmful ultraviolet (UV) rays. This translates to a significantly higher risk of sunburn and long-term skin damage. The dry desert climate further exacerbates the problem, leading to rapid dehydration and chapped, cracked lips.
Let’s start with sunscreen. Not all sunscreens are created equal, especially when facing the Taos sun. You need a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher. Broad-spectrum means it protects against both UVA and UVB rays. UVB rays are primarily responsible for sunburn, while UVA rays contribute to premature aging and skin cancer.
Mineral sunscreens containing zinc oxide or titanium dioxide are generally considered the best option. They work by creating a physical barrier on the skin, reflecting UV rays away. Chemical sunscreens, on the other hand, absorb UV rays, which can sometimes cause irritation, especially for sensitive skin.
- Zinc Oxide: Provides excellent broad-spectrum protection and is generally well-tolerated. Look for formulations with a high percentage of zinc oxide (20% or more).
- Titanium Dioxide: Another effective mineral sunscreen ingredient, often used in combination with zinc oxide.
Application is key. Don’t just slather on a thin layer and call it good. You need to apply a generous amount – about one ounce (a shot glass full) for your entire body – and reapply every two hours, or more frequently if you’re swimming or sweating.
A common mistake is forgetting to apply sunscreen to often-overlooked areas like the ears, neck, back of the hands, and tops of the feet. These areas are just as susceptible to sun damage.
Pro Tip: Apply sunscreen before you get dressed. This ensures you don’t miss any spots and allows the sunscreen to fully absorb into your skin.
Consider the time of day. The sun’s rays are strongest between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. If possible, limit your exposure during these peak hours. Seek shade whenever possible, especially during outdoor activities.
Clothing matters. Wear protective clothing, such as long-sleeved shirts, pants, and wide-brimmed hats, to shield your skin from the sun. Look for clothing with a UPF (Ultraviolet Protection Factor) rating for even greater protection.
Now, let’s talk about lip care. The dry air in Taos can wreak havoc on your lips, leading to dryness, cracking, and even sun damage. Your lips don’t produce melanin, the pigment that protects your skin from the sun, making them particularly vulnerable.
Choose the right lip balm. Look for a lip balm that contains SPF 30 or higher and moisturizing ingredients like beeswax, shea butter, or coconut oil. Avoid lip balms with ingredients like menthol or camphor, which can actually dry out your lips.
Apply lip balm frequently. Reapply lip balm throughout the day, especially before and after being outdoors. Don’t wait until your lips feel dry or chapped.
Nighttime hydration is crucial. Before bed, apply a thick layer of a moisturizing lip balm or ointment to help repair and hydrate your lips overnight. Consider using a humidifier in your bedroom to add moisture to the air.
Avoid licking your lips. This may seem counterintuitive, but licking your lips actually makes them drier. Saliva evaporates quickly, taking moisture away from your lips.
Stay hydrated. Drinking plenty of water is essential for overall skin and lip health. Dehydration can exacerbate dryness and chapping.
Exfoliate gently. If your lips are severely chapped, gently exfoliate them with a soft toothbrush or a sugar scrub to remove dead skin cells. Be careful not to over-exfoliate, as this can further irritate your lips.
Case Study: The Taos Pueblo Marathon Runner
Consider a marathon runner training in Taos for the Taos Pueblo Marathon. This individual faces extreme conditions: high altitude, intense sun, and dry air, all while exerting themselves physically. Their skin and lip care routine needs to be meticulous.
- Pre-Run: Generous application of a broad-spectrum, water-resistant mineral sunscreen (SPF 50+) to all exposed skin, including ears, neck, and back of hands. Application of a lip balm with SPF 30+ containing beeswax and shea butter.
- During Run: Reapplication of sunscreen every two hours, especially on the face and neck. Frequent application of lip balm, particularly after drinking water. Wearing a hat and sunglasses for added protection.
- Post-Run: Gentle cleansing of the skin to remove sweat and sunscreen. Application of a hydrating moisturizer to replenish lost moisture. Reapplication of lip balm.
Common Pitfalls and How to Avoid Them:
- Using expired sunscreen: Sunscreen loses its effectiveness over time. Check the expiration date and replace it if it’s expired.
- Not applying enough sunscreen: Most people don’t apply enough sunscreen. Use the recommended amount (one ounce for the body) and reapply frequently.
- Forgetting to reapply sunscreen: Sunscreen needs to be reapplied every two hours, or more frequently if you’re swimming or sweating. Set a timer on your phone to remind you.
- Using lip balm with irritating ingredients: Avoid lip balms with menthol, camphor, or artificial fragrances, which can dry out your lips.
- Not staying hydrated: Drink plenty of water throughout the day to keep your skin and lips hydrated.
Living in or visiting Taos requires a proactive approach to skin and lip care. The intense sun and dry air demand a commitment to sun protection and hydration. By following these guidelines, you can enjoy the beauty of Taos without compromising your skin and lip health. Remember, prevention is key. A little extra effort can go a long way in protecting yourself from the harmful effects of the sun and dry air.