Taos Skin: Altitude Sun, Lies About SPF?

By Franklin Everett Shaw

November 2, 2025

The sun feels different here. It’s not just the heat; it’s the intensity, the way it seems to bore right through you. Many underestimate the power of the sun in the high-altitude deserts of Colorado, Utah, and New Mexico, especially around Taos. Standard sunscreen advice simply doesn’t cut it.

The problem isn’t just the altitude; it’s the confluence of factors that create a UV radiation perfect storm. Higher altitude means less atmosphere to filter out harmful rays. The dry desert air offers little to no humidity to diffuse the sunlight. The sun reflects off the snow, sand, and even the adobe buildings, bombarding you from all angles.

So, how do you truly protect yourself? It’s time to ditch the generic sunscreen advice and embrace a high-altitude, desert-specific strategy.

First, understand the SPF myth. SPF, or Sun Protection Factor, primarily measures protection against UVB rays, the ones that cause sunburn. It doesn’t fully account for UVA rays, which penetrate deeper into the skin and contribute to premature aging and skin cancer. In high-UV environments, broad-spectrum protection is non-negotiable. Look for sunscreens that explicitly state “broad spectrum” on the label.

Next, application is everything. Most people apply far too little sunscreen. A shot glass full (about an ounce) is the recommended amount for the entire body. Don’t forget often-missed areas like the ears, back of the neck, tops of the feet, and even your eyelids (use a mineral-based sunscreen for this sensitive area to avoid irritation). Reapplication is crucial, every two hours, or immediately after swimming or sweating heavily.

Consider the environment when choosing your sunscreen. In the dry desert air, a moisturizing sunscreen is your best friend. Look for formulas containing ingredients like hyaluronic acid or ceramides to help keep your skin hydrated. Avoid alcohol-based sunscreens, as they can further dry out your skin.

For specific product recommendations, consider mineral sunscreens containing zinc oxide or titanium dioxide. These are generally considered safer for sensitive skin and the environment. Brands like EltaMD and Blue Lizard offer excellent mineral-based options. For a more budget-friendly choice, consider Thinksport or Badger Balm.

Don’t rely solely on sunscreen. Sun-protective clothing is a game-changer. Look for clothing with an Ultraviolet Protection Factor (UPF) rating. A UPF of 50 means that only 1/50th of the sun’s UV radiation can penetrate the fabric. Long-sleeved shirts, pants, wide-brimmed hats, and sunglasses are essential for minimizing sun exposure.

Sunglasses are not optional. The intense sunlight can damage your eyes, leading to cataracts and other vision problems. Choose sunglasses that block 100% of UVA and UVB rays. Wraparound styles offer the best protection by preventing sunlight from entering from the sides.

Let’s debunk some common SPF myths, especially relevant to high-altitude hiking around Taos.

Myth: “I don’t need sunscreen on cloudy days.” False. Clouds only filter out a portion of UV radiation. You can still get sunburned on cloudy days, especially at high altitudes.
Myth: “A higher SPF means I can stay in the sun longer.” Partially true, but misleading. SPF 30 blocks about 97% of UVB rays, while SPF 50 blocks about 98%. The difference is minimal, and reapplication is still crucial regardless of the SPF.
Myth: “I only need sunscreen when I’m actively hiking.” Wrong. UV radiation is present even when you’re taking breaks, setting up camp, or simply walking around town.
Myth: “My makeup has SPF, so I’m protected.” Unlikely. Most makeup products don’t contain enough SPF to provide adequate protection, and they’re often not applied evenly.

A common pitfall is underestimating the reflective power of snow. If you’re hiking in the mountains during the winter or early spring, snow can reflect up to 80% of UV radiation, significantly increasing your exposure. Double down on sun protection during these times.

Another challenge is remembering to reapply sunscreen, especially on long hikes. Set a timer on your phone or pack a travel-sized sunscreen for easy reapplication on the go.

Consider a case study: Two hikers set out on a trail near Wheeler Peak, the highest point in New Mexico. Hiker A applied sunscreen once in the morning and wore a short-sleeved shirt. Hiker B applied sunscreen every two hours, wore a long-sleeved UPF shirt, and a wide-brimmed hat. By the end of the day, Hiker A had a painful sunburn, while Hiker B was comfortable and protected.

Here’s a step-by-step guide to proper sunscreen application for a day hike near Taos:

Apply sunscreen liberally 15-30 minutes before heading outdoors.
Use a shot glass full (about an ounce) for your entire body.
Don’t forget your ears, back of the neck, tops of the feet, and eyelids (use a mineral-based sunscreen).
Wear sun-protective clothing, including a long-sleeved shirt, pants, and a wide-brimmed hat.
Wear sunglasses that block 100% of UVA and UVB rays.
Reapply sunscreen every two hours, or immediately after swimming or sweating heavily.
Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water.

Remember, sun protection is not a one-size-fits-all approach. The intense high-altitude sun of the Taos area requires a more nuanced strategy. By understanding the risks, choosing the right products, and applying them correctly, you can enjoy the beauty of the Southwest without compromising your health. Don’t let the sun ruin your adventure.