Taos Sun: Altitude Lies Hiding Youth Lip Burns?
By Franklin Everett ShawThe sun in Taos, New Mexico feels different. It’s not just the dry air; it’s the intensity, the way it seems to bore right through you. Many visitors, and even long-time residents, underestimate its power, especially when it comes to their lips.
Taos sits at a high altitude, around 7,000 feet. This elevation means less atmosphere to filter out harmful UV rays. The result? A significantly increased risk of sunburn, and accelerated aging, particularly on sensitive areas like your lips.
Let’s talk about lip burn in Taos. It’s not just a cosmetic issue; it’s a health concern. Repeated sun exposure can lead to premature aging, collagen breakdown, and even increase the risk of skin cancer.
So, how do you protect your pout in this high-altitude desert paradise? It starts with understanding the science and then applying practical solutions.
First, SPF is your friend. But not just any SPF. You need a lip balm with a Sun Protection Factor (SPF) of 30 or higher. Look for broad-spectrum protection, meaning it shields against both UVA and UVB rays.
Where can you find these lip saviors in Taos?
Taos Pharmacy: A local institution, Taos Pharmacy on Paseo del Pueblo Sur usually stocks a variety of SPF lip balms. Brands like Neutrogena, Aquaphor, and sometimes even specialized suncare brands like EltaMD can be found here. Call ahead to check their current stock.
CVS Pharmacy: Located on the north end of town, CVS offers a wider selection of mainstream brands. Look for options from ChapStick, Burt’s Bees (they have some with SPF), and Sun Bum.
Ski Shops (Taos Ski Valley): If you’re heading up to the mountain, ski shops like Taos Mountain Sports or Cottam’s Ski Shops are your best bet. They often carry high-performance lip balms specifically designed for extreme sun and wind exposure. Look for brands like Dermatone or Zinka.
Natural Food Stores (like Cid’s Food Market): For those seeking natural or organic options, Cid’s often carries brands like Badger Balm or Alba Botanica with SPF.
Now, let’s get specific about SPF recommendations. Don’t be fooled by low SPF numbers. In Taos, SPF 15 is practically useless. Aim for SPF 30 as a minimum, and SPF 50 is even better, especially if you’re spending extended periods outdoors.
Reapplication is key. Apply lip balm liberally and frequently, especially after eating, drinking, or sweating. Every two hours is a good rule of thumb, but more often is better if you’re actively skiing or hiking.
What about ingredients? 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 potentially irritating ingredients like menthol, camphor, or phenol, especially if your lips are already chapped or sunburned. These can actually worsen the condition.
Let’s say you forgot to apply lip balm and now you’re sporting a painful, sunburned pout. What do you do?
Here are some DIY remedies for immediate relief:
Cool Compress: Apply a cool, damp cloth to your lips for 10-15 minutes several times a day. This will help reduce inflammation and pain.
Aloe Vera: Pure aloe vera gel is a natural anti-inflammatory and can soothe sunburned skin. Apply a thin layer to your lips several times a day. You can find aloe vera gel at most pharmacies in Taos.
Honey: Honey has antibacterial and wound-healing properties. Apply a thin layer of raw honey to your lips and let it sit for 15-20 minutes before rinsing off.
Coconut Oil: Coconut oil is a natural moisturizer that can help soothe and protect sunburned lips. Apply a thin layer to your lips several times a day.
Hydration: Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated. Sunburn can dehydrate you, so it’s important to replenish fluids.
A common mistake people make is licking their lips when they feel dry. This actually makes the problem worse. Saliva evaporates quickly, leaving your lips even drier and more susceptible to sun damage.
Another pitfall is using expired lip balm. Sunscreen ingredients degrade over time, so check the expiration date on your lip balm and replace it if it’s expired.
Don’t forget about nighttime protection. Apply a thick layer of moisturizing lip balm before bed to help repair and hydrate your lips overnight. Look for ingredients like shea butter, cocoa butter, or hyaluronic acid.
Consider a physical barrier. When engaging in activities with intense sun exposure, like skiing at Taos Ski Valley, consider using a zinc oxide stick or a lip sunscreen with a physical block. These create a barrier against the sun.
Think about your diet. Eating foods rich in antioxidants, like fruits and vegetables, can help protect your skin from sun damage.
Finally, be aware of medications that can increase your sun sensitivity. Certain antibiotics, acne medications, and other drugs can make you more susceptible to sunburn. Talk to your doctor or pharmacist if you’re concerned about sun sensitivity.
Protecting your lips in Taos is not just about vanity; it’s about health. By understanding the risks and taking proactive steps, you can enjoy the beauty of Taos without sacrificing the health of your lips. Remember, prevention is always better than cure. So, slather on that SPF, stay hydrated, and enjoy the Taos sunshine responsibly.