Taos Sun: Altitude Lies About UV Damage?

By Franklin Everett Shaw

September 25, 2025

The sun feels amazing on your skin, especially after a long winter. But that warmth can be deceptive, especially if you’re in a place like Taos, New Mexico. The high altitude and intense sun create a perfect storm for UV damage, and many people underestimate the risk.

Taos, New Mexico, a land of stunning landscapes and rich cultural heritage, presents a unique challenge when it comes to sun exposure. The combination of high altitude and intense sunlight significantly increases the risk of UV damage, making it crucial for both residents and visitors to take extra precautions.

At higher altitudes, the atmosphere is thinner, meaning there is less atmosphere to absorb harmful UV radiation. For every 1,000 feet you ascend, UV levels increase by approximately 4-5%. Taos sits at an elevation of nearly 7,000 feet, resulting in significantly higher UV exposure compared to sea level.

The sun’s intensity in New Mexico is already strong, and this is amplified by the altitude. The sun’s rays are more direct, and reflective surfaces like snow (common in winter) can bounce UV rays back onto your skin, doubling your exposure.

Choosing the right sunscreen is paramount. Don’t skimp on SPF.

SPF 50+ is Non-Negotiable: Opt for a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 50 or higher. Broad-spectrum means it protects against both UVA and UVB rays.
Application is Key: Apply sunscreen liberally 15-30 minutes before sun exposure. Don’t forget often-missed areas like your ears, neck, and the tops of your feet.
Reapplication is Crucial: Reapply sunscreen every two hours, or more frequently if you’re sweating or swimming. Set a timer on your phone to remind you.
Water Resistance Matters: Choose a water-resistant sunscreen, even if you’re not planning on swimming. Sweat can wash away regular sunscreen.
Consider Mineral Sunscreens: Mineral sunscreens containing zinc oxide or titanium dioxide are excellent choices, especially for sensitive skin. They work by creating a physical barrier against the sun.

Protective clothing is your first line of defense. Sunscreen is important, but covering up is even better.

Long Sleeves and Pants: When possible, wear long-sleeved shirts and pants, especially during peak sun hours (10 AM to 4 PM).
UPF Clothing: Invest in clothing with an Ultraviolet Protection Factor (UPF) rating. This indicates how much UV radiation the fabric blocks. A UPF of 50 means the fabric blocks 98% of UV rays.
Wide-Brimmed Hats: A wide-brimmed hat provides excellent protection for your face, ears, and neck. Choose a hat with a brim of at least 3 inches.
Sunglasses are Essential: Protect your eyes with sunglasses that block 100% of UVA and UVB rays. Look for sunglasses with an ANSI Z80.3 rating.
Don’t Forget Your Lips: Use a lip balm with an SPF of 30 or higher. Lips are particularly vulnerable to sun damage.

Many people mistakenly believe that cooler temperatures at higher altitudes mean less UV exposure. This is a dangerous misconception.

Temperature is Not an Indicator: UV radiation is invisible and unrelated to temperature. You can get sunburned on a cloudy, cool day just as easily as on a hot, sunny day.
Wind Can Be Deceptive: The wind in Taos can make it feel cooler than it actually is, lulling you into a false sense of security. Don’t let the wind fool you into thinking you don’t need sun protection.
Year-Round Protection is Necessary: UV radiation is present year-round, even in winter. Snow reflects UV rays, increasing your exposure.

Here’s how to stay safe while enjoying Taos’s outdoor activities:

Skiing and Snowboarding: Wear sunscreen, lip balm with SPF, and sunglasses or goggles. Cover as much skin as possible with clothing. Reapply sunscreen frequently, especially on your face.
Hiking: Wear lightweight, long-sleeved clothing, a wide-brimmed hat, and sunglasses. Apply sunscreen liberally and reapply every two hours. Hike during off-peak sun hours if possible.
Exploring Taos Pueblo: Wear sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses. Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water. Seek shade whenever possible.
Outdoor Dining: Even if you’re sitting under an umbrella, UV rays can still reach you. Wear sunscreen and consider wearing a hat.

Common mistakes developers make when thinking about sun protection:

Not Applying Enough Sunscreen: Most people don’t apply nearly enough sunscreen. Use at least one ounce (about a shot glass full) to cover your entire body.
Forgetting to Reapply: Sunscreen wears off over time, especially if you’re sweating or swimming. Reapply every two hours, or more frequently if needed.
Relying on Makeup with SPF: Makeup with SPF is not a substitute for sunscreen. It’s usually not applied thickly enough to provide adequate protection.
Ignoring Cloudy Days: UV radiation can penetrate clouds. You can still get sunburned on a cloudy day.
Thinking They’re Immune: Everyone is susceptible to sun damage, regardless of skin tone. While darker skin tones have more melanin, they still need sun protection.

Here are some actionable insights you can use right away:

Check the UV Index: Before heading outdoors, check the UV index for Taos. This will give you an idea of the strength of the sun’s rays. You can find the UV index on weather websites or apps.
Set a Sunscreen Alarm: Set a timer on your phone to remind you to reapply sunscreen every two hours.
Make Sun Protection a Habit: Incorporate sun protection into your daily routine, just like brushing your teeth.
Educate Others: Share this information with your friends and family. Help them understand the importance of sun protection in Taos.
Choose the Right Products: Research and choose sunscreens and clothing that are effective and comfortable for you.

Don’t let the sun’s deceptive warmth fool you. By taking the necessary precautions, you can enjoy all that Taos has to offer while protecting your skin from harmful UV radiation. Remember, sun protection is not just for summer; it’s a year-round necessity in Taos, New Mexico.