**Taos Sun: Altitude Lies About Lip Sunburn?**
By Franklin Everett ShawThe sting of sunburn on your lips is a brutal reminder that even paradise has its perils. Many visitors and even long-time residents of Taos, New Mexico, underestimate the sun’s intensity at 7,000 feet. They end up with painful, peeling lips, a souvenir nobody wants.
The high altitude of Taos significantly increases UV exposure. The thinner atmosphere filters less UV radiation. This means you’re getting a more potent dose of sunshine, even on cloudy days.
Think of it this way: every thousand feet you ascend, UV radiation increases by roughly 4-5%. Taos sits at over 7,000 feet, so you’re already starting with a significant UV advantage.
But it’s not just the altitude; it’s the deceptive nature of the Taos sun. The dry air and often-present snow reflect sunlight, amplifying its effects. This reflected radiation bounces back up, hitting you from below and increasing your overall exposure.
Many people mistakenly believe that if it’s not scorching hot, they don’t need sun protection. This is a dangerous myth, especially in Taos. UV radiation is present year-round, regardless of temperature.
So, how do you protect your lips from the Taos sun? It’s all about prevention and prompt treatment.
First, let’s talk about SPF lip balms. Not all lip balms are created equal. You need a broad-spectrum SPF lip balm with an SPF of 30 or higher.
Look for lip balms containing zinc oxide or titanium dioxide. These are mineral sunscreens that provide excellent broad-spectrum protection and are generally considered safer than chemical sunscreens.
Avoid lip balms with ingredients like oxybenzone and octinoxate. These chemical sunscreens have been linked to hormone disruption and coral reef damage.
Here are some specific SPF lip balms you can find at local Taos pharmacies and outdoor retailers:
Blue Lizard Australian Sunscreen - Sensitive Lip Balm SPF 30: Widely available and fragrance-free, making it a good choice for sensitive skin. You can find this at Cid’s Food Market.
Sun Bum SPF 30 Sunscreen Lip Balm: A popular choice with a variety of flavors, often found at Taos Mesa Brewing Mothership.
Badger Balm SPF 30 Lip Balm: Organic and reef-friendly, available at the Taos Food Co-op.
REI Co-op SPF 30 Lip Balm: A reliable option found at the local REI.
Apply your SPF lip balm liberally and frequently. Reapply at least every two hours, or more often if you’re sweating or swimming. Don’t forget to apply it before you head out for a hike, ski, or even just a walk around the Taos Plaza.
Now, let’s say you’ve already gotten a lip sunburn. What can you do to treat it?
The first step is to get out of the sun immediately. Find shade or go indoors.
Next, apply a cool compress to your lips. This will help to reduce inflammation and pain. A clean washcloth soaked in cool water works well.
Avoid picking or peeling the skin on your lips. This can lead to infection and scarring.
Here are some DIY remedies using Southwestern ingredients that can soothe and heal sunburned lips:
Aloe Vera: Aloe vera is a natural anti-inflammatory and moisturizer. You can find aloe vera gel at most pharmacies in Taos. Apply it liberally to your lips several times a day.
Prickly Pear: The juice from prickly pear cactus pads has been shown to have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. While finding fresh prickly pear in Taos is possible, it’s easier to use a commercially prepared prickly pear gel or lotion.
Honey: Honey is a natural humectant, meaning it helps to draw moisture to the skin. It also has antibacterial properties. Apply a thin layer of honey to your lips and let it sit for 15-20 minutes before rinsing it off.
Calendula: Calendula is a flower with anti-inflammatory and wound-healing properties. You can find calendula-infused oils or creams at some health food stores in Taos.
Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water. This will help to keep your skin hydrated from the inside out.
Avoid using harsh soaps or cleansers on your lips. These can further irritate the skin.
Don’t wear lipstick or other lip products until your lips have healed. These can trap heat and moisture, which can worsen the sunburn.
Here are some common mistakes people make when trying to prevent or treat lip sunburn in Taos:
Not applying enough SPF lip balm: Most people don’t apply enough sunscreen. You need to apply a thick layer to adequately protect your skin.
Not reapplying SPF lip balm frequently enough: Sunscreen wears off over time, especially if you’re sweating or swimming.
Using expired SPF lip balm: Sunscreen loses its effectiveness over time. Check the expiration date on your lip balm and replace it if it’s expired.
Thinking that cloudy days mean you don’t need sun protection: UV radiation can penetrate clouds.
Ignoring the signs of lip sunburn: If your lips start to feel dry, tight, or tingly, it’s a sign that they’re getting too much sun. Take action immediately to protect them.
Using petroleum-based products: While seemingly moisturizing, petroleum-based products can trap heat and prevent the skin from breathing, potentially worsening a sunburn.
Remember, prevention is always better than cure. By taking these precautions, you can enjoy the beauty of Taos without suffering the pain of lip sunburn. The Taos sun is beautiful, but it demands respect.