Taos Sun: Altitude Lies Burning Lip Lasers?
By Franklin Everett ShawDon’t let the stunning views of Taos be the only thing you remember. The high altitude and intense sun can wreak havoc on your lips, leaving them chapped, cracked, and painful. But fear not, fellow traveler! With the right knowledge and a little preparation, you can keep your pout perfectly kissable, even at 7,000 feet.
The secret weapon in your Taos survival kit is, without a doubt, lip balm with SPF. But not just any lip balm. We’re talking about a high-quality, broad-spectrum SPF 30 or higher.
Why SPF 30? The sun’s intensity increases with altitude. For every 1,000 feet you ascend, UV radiation increases by approximately 4-5%. Taos sits at a considerable elevation, making sun protection paramount. Broad-spectrum means the balm protects against both UVA and UVB rays. UVA rays contribute to aging, while UVB rays cause sunburn. You need both covered.
Now, let’s talk specifics. You can find excellent options right in Taos.
Taos Pharmacy: This local pharmacy often carries brands like EltaMD and Vanicream, both known for their sensitive skin formulas and high SPF. EltaMD UV Lip Balm SPF 31 is a particularly good choice, containing zinc oxide for excellent sun protection and moisturizing ingredients.
Cid’s Food Market: Don’t underestimate the grocery store! Look for brands like Badger Balm SPF 30. Badger Balm uses natural ingredients and is a good option if you prefer a more eco-friendly product.
Op. Cit. Books: Surprisingly, this bookstore sometimes stocks lip balms with SPF, often from smaller, independent brands. It’s worth a look for unique and potentially locally made options.
But what if you’re caught short or prefer a DIY approach? Here’s where things get interesting. You can whip up a surprisingly effective lip balm using ingredients you might already have.
DIY Taos Lip Savior:
Base: Start with a tablespoon of coconut oil. Coconut oil is naturally moisturizing and has mild SPF properties (though not enough on its own).
SPF Boost: Add a teaspoon of zinc oxide powder. This is crucial for sun protection. You can find zinc oxide powder at most health food stores or online. Be careful not to inhale the powder.
Moisture Lock: Mix in a half-teaspoon of shea butter. Shea butter is incredibly emollient and helps create a protective barrier.
Flavor (Optional): A drop or two of peppermint or lavender essential oil can add a pleasant scent and cooling sensation. Use essential oils sparingly, as they can be irritating to some.
Application: Combine all ingredients in a small, heat-safe bowl. Gently melt the mixture in a double boiler or microwave in short bursts, stirring frequently. Pour into a small container (an old lip balm tube works great) and let it cool and solidify.
This DIY balm provides decent sun protection and intense moisture. Reapply frequently, especially after eating or drinking.
However, SPF lip balm is only half the battle. Hydration is equally crucial in the dry Taos climate.
Hydration Strategies for Kissable Taos Lips:
Water, Water, Water: This seems obvious, but it’s worth emphasizing. Drink plenty of water throughout the day. The dry air will dehydrate you quickly. Carry a reusable water bottle and refill it often.
Humidify: If you’re staying in a hotel or rental, consider using a humidifier, especially at night. This will add moisture back into the air and prevent your lips from drying out while you sleep.
Avoid Licking Your Lips: This is a common mistake. Licking your lips provides temporary relief but actually makes them drier in the long run. Saliva evaporates quickly, taking moisture with it.
Nighttime Treatment: Before bed, apply a thick layer of a moisturizing lip treatment. Look for ingredients like lanolin, beeswax, or hyaluronic acid. Aquaphor Healing Ointment is a classic choice.
Diet Matters: Eat foods rich in healthy fats, like avocados and nuts. These fats help keep your skin hydrated from the inside out.
Now, let’s address some common pitfalls and challenges.
Challenges and Solutions:
Finding the Right SPF: Not all SPF lip balms are created equal. Some contain irritating ingredients like menthol or camphor, which can actually worsen chapped lips. Read the ingredient list carefully and avoid products with these ingredients.
Remembering to Reapply: Sunscreen, including lip balm, needs to be reapplied every two hours, or more often if you’re swimming or sweating. Set a reminder on your phone to reapply regularly.
Allergic Reactions: Some people are allergic to ingredients in lip balm, such as beeswax or lanolin. If you experience any redness, itching, or swelling, discontinue use immediately.
Severe Chapping: If your lips are severely chapped and cracked, consider consulting a dermatologist. They may recommend a prescription-strength treatment.
Altitude Sickness: Dehydration is a symptom of altitude sickness, which can exacerbate chapped lips. If you experience other symptoms of altitude sickness, such as headache, nausea, or fatigue, seek medical attention.
Let’s consider a real-world scenario. Imagine you’re visiting Taos Pueblo, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. You’re spending the day outdoors, exploring the ancient adobe structures. The sun is beating down, and the wind is whipping. You’ve applied your SPF lip balm in the morning, but it’s now midday. Your lips are starting to feel dry and tight.
What do you do? First, find a shady spot to reapply your lip balm. Next, take a sip of water. If you have any, apply a thin layer of your DIY lip balm for extra moisture. Avoid licking your lips. Continue to reapply lip balm and drink water throughout the day.
By following these tips, you can protect your lips from the harsh Taos environment and enjoy your visit to the fullest. Don’t let chapped lips ruin your Taos adventure. Pack your SPF lip balm, stay hydrated, and get ready to explore the beauty of northern New Mexico with a smile. Remember, a little preparation goes a long way in keeping your lips happy and healthy in the high desert.