Taos Skin: Altitude Lies Hiding Summer Burn Risk?
By Franklin Everett ShawThe sun feels amazing on your skin, especially after a long winter. But that warmth can be deceptive, especially when you’re surrounded by the stunning peaks of Taos, New Mexico. Many visitors and even long-time residents underestimate the sun’s intensity at high altitudes, leading to painful sunburns and long-term skin damage. Don’t let a preventable mistake ruin your Taos adventure.
The air thins as you climb higher, and that thinner air filters less of the sun’s harmful ultraviolet (UV) radiation. For every 1,000 feet you ascend, UV levels increase by approximately 4-5%. Taos sits at an elevation of around 7,000 feet, and the surrounding mountains soar even higher. This means you’re exposed to significantly more UV radiation than you would be at sea level.
Choosing the right sunscreen is crucial. Look for a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher. Broad-spectrum means it protects against both UVA and UVB rays. Don’t skimp on the application. Most people only apply 25-50% of the recommended amount of sunscreen. You should use about one ounce (a shot glass full) to cover your entire body.
Reapplication is just as important as the initial application. Sunscreen should be reapplied every two hours, or more frequently if you’re sweating or swimming. Even “water-resistant” sunscreens lose effectiveness after a while. Set a timer on your phone to remind you to reapply.
Beyond sunscreen, protective clothing is your next line of defense. Lightweight, long-sleeved shirts and pants can provide excellent sun protection without making you overheat. 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.
A wide-brimmed hat is essential for protecting your face, ears, and neck. Baseball caps are better than nothing, but they don’t offer as much coverage. Sunglasses are also a must. Choose sunglasses that block 99-100% of UVA and UVB rays. Wraparound styles offer the best protection.
Many people mistakenly believe that you can’t get sunburned on a cloudy day. This is false. Clouds can actually increase UV radiation by reflecting it. Up to 80% of the sun’s UV rays can penetrate clouds.
Another common misconception is that you don’t need sunscreen in the winter. While the sun may feel less intense, UV radiation is still present, especially at high altitudes. Snow reflects UV rays, further increasing your exposure. This is why skiers and snowboarders often get sunburned, even on cold days.
Taos offers several resources for sun safety information. The Taos County Health Department provides educational materials and outreach programs. Local pharmacies and outdoor retailers also carry a wide range of sunscreens and protective clothing. The Taos Public Library has books and articles on sun safety.
Here’s a practical example: Imagine you’re planning a day hike to Williams Lake, a popular destination near Taos Ski Valley. The trailhead is at 9,800 feet, and the lake is at 11,000 feet. Before you even leave your house, apply a generous layer of broad-spectrum SPF 30+ sunscreen to all exposed skin. Wear a long-sleeved shirt, pants, a wide-brimmed hat, and sunglasses. Pack extra sunscreen and reapply it every two hours, or more often if you’re sweating. Even if it’s a cloudy day, don’t skip the sunscreen.
One challenge hikers face is remembering to reapply sunscreen. It’s easy to get caught up in the scenery and forget. Set a timer on your phone or use a sunscreen stick that you can easily apply on the go. Another pitfall is not applying enough sunscreen to begin with. Use the “shot glass” rule to ensure you’re using the right amount.
Another common mistake is using expired sunscreen. Sunscreen has an expiration date, and it loses its effectiveness over time. Check the expiration date before you apply it. If it’s expired, throw it away and buy a new bottle.
Consider this scenario: You’re visiting Taos Pueblo, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. You’ll be spending several hours outdoors, exploring the ancient adobe buildings. Even though you’re not hiking, you’re still exposed to high levels of UV radiation. Apply sunscreen before you leave your hotel, and reapply it throughout the day. Wear a hat and sunglasses. Seek shade whenever possible.
Don’t underestimate the power of the sun in Taos. By taking the necessary precautions, you can protect your skin and enjoy your time in this beautiful part of New Mexico. Remember, sun safety is not just for tourists. Even if you live in Taos, it’s important to protect your skin from the sun’s harmful rays. Make sun safety a part of your daily routine.