Taos Sun: Altitude Lies About Winter Burn?
By Franklin Everett ShawThe sting of winter in Taos, New Mexico isn’t just the biting wind whipping down from the Sangre de Cristo Mountains. It’s also the sneaky, often underestimated, burn of the sun. Many believe sunburns are a summer affliction, a consequence of long days at the beach. But in Taos, the combination of high altitude and intense winter sun creates a perfect storm for what locals call “altitude burn.”
Taos sits at a breathtaking 6,969 feet above sea level. At this altitude, the atmosphere is thinner, filtering less of the sun’s harmful ultraviolet (UV) rays. For every 1,000 feet you ascend, UV radiation increases by approximately 4-5%. This means you’re exposed to significantly more UV radiation in Taos than you would be at sea level.
The winter sun in Taos is deceptively strong. Snow reflects up to 80% of UV radiation, essentially doubling your exposure. This reflected radiation hits you from below, making it easy to burn even in shaded areas.
So, how do you protect yourself from this winter sun assault in Taos? It’s more than just slapping on any old sunscreen. You need a strategic approach.
First, understand your SPF. SPF 30 blocks approximately 97% of UVB rays, while SPF 50 blocks about 98%. For Taos in the winter, especially if you’re skiing or snowboarding, SPF 50 or higher is non-negotiable.
Don’t skimp on application. Apply sunscreen liberally 30 minutes before heading outdoors, allowing it to bind to your skin. Reapply every two hours, or more frequently if you’re sweating or toweling off.
Consider a mineral-based sunscreen. Look for sunscreens containing zinc oxide or titanium dioxide. These are physical blockers, creating a barrier on your skin rather than being absorbed. They are also generally considered safer for sensitive skin and the environment. You can find excellent options at Cid’s Food Market or Taos Pharmacy.
Protect your lips. Lips are particularly vulnerable to sun damage. Use a lip balm with an SPF of 30 or higher. Reapply frequently, especially after eating or drinking.
Don’t forget your eyes. UV radiation can damage your eyes, leading to cataracts and other problems. Wear sunglasses or goggles that block 100% of UVA and UVB rays.
Timing is crucial. The sun’s rays are strongest between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. If possible, limit your outdoor activities during these peak hours. If you must be outside, seek shade whenever possible.
Dress appropriately. Wear clothing that covers your skin. Long sleeves, pants, and a wide-brimmed hat can provide significant protection.
Hydrate, hydrate, hydrate. Dehydration can make your skin more susceptible to sun damage. Drink plenty of water throughout the day.
Now, let’s talk about a common confusion: sunburn versus windburn. Both can leave your skin red and irritated, but they are different. Sunburn is caused by UV radiation, while windburn is caused by the drying effects of wind.
Windburn typically affects exposed areas like your face and lips. It can cause dryness, chapping, and a burning sensation. Sunburn, on the other hand, can affect any area exposed to the sun, and it’s often accompanied by pain, blistering, and peeling.
The treatment for windburn and sunburn also differs. For windburn, focus on moisturizing and protecting your skin from further exposure. Use a thick, emollient cream or balm. For sunburn, cool compresses, aloe vera, and over-the-counter pain relievers can help.
A common mistake is thinking that cloudy days offer protection. Clouds can block some UV radiation, but not all. You can still get sunburned on a cloudy day, especially at high altitude.
Another pitfall is relying solely on makeup with SPF. While makeup with SPF is better than nothing, it’s usually not enough to provide adequate protection. You need to apply a separate sunscreen underneath your makeup.
Many underestimate the cumulative effect of sun exposure. Even short periods of sun exposure can add up over time, increasing your risk of skin damage and skin cancer. Make sun protection a daily habit, even on days when you’re only spending a few minutes outside.
Consider the specific activities you’re doing. If you’re skiing or snowboarding, you’ll be exposed to more UV radiation than if you’re simply walking around town. Adjust your sun protection accordingly.
For example, if you’re spending the day on the slopes at Taos Ski Valley, you’ll want to use a high SPF sunscreen, lip balm with SPF, and sunglasses or goggles. Reapply sunscreen frequently, especially after sweating.
If you’re just strolling through the Taos Plaza, you can probably get away with a slightly lower SPF, but you should still wear sunscreen, lip balm, and sunglasses.
Remember, sun protection is not just about preventing sunburn. It’s about protecting your skin from long-term damage and reducing your risk of skin cancer. Make it a priority, especially when you’re in a high-altitude environment like Taos.
Don’t let the winter sun ruin your Taos experience. By taking the necessary precautions, you can enjoy all that this beautiful town has to offer without risking your skin’s health. So, pack your sunscreen, grab your sunglasses, and get ready to explore the magic of Taos, safely.