Taos Sunburns: Altitude Air Crashing Summer Sunscreen?
By Franklin Everett ShawThe desert air bites with a deceptive coolness, a stark contrast to the sun’s relentless glare. You’re in Taos, New Mexico, a land of stunning beauty and, unfortunately, brutal sunburns. Many underestimate the intensity of the sun here, lured into a false sense of security by the altitude and dry climate. But trust me, that “healthy glow” can quickly turn into a painful, peeling nightmare.
Taos sits at a high altitude, around 7,000 feet above sea level. This means the atmosphere is thinner, filtering out less of the sun’s harmful ultraviolet (UV) radiation. For every 1,000 feet of elevation, UV levels increase by approximately 4-5%. That’s a significant jump compared to sea level.
The dry air also plays a role. Humidity can actually absorb some UV rays, but in Taos, the lack of moisture means more UV radiation reaches your skin. Add to that the reflective surfaces like snow in the winter or the light-colored adobe buildings, and you’ve got a recipe for a serious burn.
So, how do you protect yourself? It starts with sunscreen, but not just any sunscreen. You need a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher. Broad-spectrum means it protects against both UVA and UVB rays. UVB rays are the primary cause of sunburn, while UVA rays contribute to premature aging and skin cancer.
Look for sunscreens containing zinc oxide or titanium dioxide. These are mineral sunscreens that create a physical barrier on your skin, reflecting UV rays away. They’re also generally considered safer for sensitive skin and the environment than chemical sunscreens.
Now, the application is key. Most people don’t use enough sunscreen. You should apply about one ounce (a shot glass full) to your entire body, and a nickel-sized dollop to your face. Don’t forget often-missed areas like your ears, the back of your neck, and the tops of your feet.
Reapplication is crucial, especially in Taos. You should reapply sunscreen every two hours, or more often if you’re sweating or swimming. Even “water-resistant” sunscreens lose their effectiveness after a while. Set a timer on your phone to remind you.
A common mistake is applying sunscreen only when you’re actively in the sun. UV radiation is present even on cloudy days. In fact, clouds can sometimes increase UV exposure by reflecting the rays. Make sunscreen application a part of your daily routine, just like brushing your teeth.
Consider the timing of your outdoor activities. The sun’s rays are strongest between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. If possible, schedule your activities for earlier in the morning or later in the afternoon. Seek shade whenever possible, especially during peak hours.
Clothing is another important line of defense. Wear long sleeves, pants, and a wide-brimmed hat to protect your skin from the sun. Look for clothing with a UPF (Ultraviolet Protection Factor) rating. This indicates how much UV radiation the fabric blocks.
Sunglasses are essential for protecting your eyes. UV exposure can lead to cataracts and other eye problems. Choose sunglasses that block 99-100% of UVA and UVB rays.
Let’s say you’ve done everything right, but you still end up with a sunburn. What do you do? The first step is to get out of the sun immediately. Find a cool, shady place to rest.
Cool compresses can help relieve the pain and inflammation. Soak a clean cloth in cool water and apply it to the affected areas for 10-15 minutes at a time. Repeat as needed.
Take a cool bath or shower. Avoid using harsh soaps or scrubbing your skin, as this can further irritate the burn. Pat your skin dry gently.
Moisturize your skin with a gentle, fragrance-free lotion. Aloe vera gel is a popular choice for sunburn relief. It has soothing and anti-inflammatory properties.
Drink plenty of fluids. Sunburn can dehydrate you, so it’s important to replenish your fluids. Water, juice, and sports drinks are all good options.
Avoid picking or peeling your skin. This can increase the risk of infection and scarring. Let your skin heal naturally.
If your sunburn is severe, you may need to see a doctor. Signs of a severe sunburn include blistering, fever, chills, nausea, and dizziness. A doctor can prescribe stronger pain relievers or topical steroids to help relieve the pain and inflammation.
For those enjoying the Taos art scene, remember that even strolling through the plaza can expose you to significant UV radiation. Apply sunscreen before heading out, and reapply throughout the day, especially if you’re spending time outdoors at art fairs or festivals.
Skiing in Taos Ski Valley is another high-risk activity for sunburn. The altitude is even higher, and the snow reflects UV rays, increasing your exposure. Wear sunscreen, lip balm with SPF, and sunglasses or goggles. Cover as much skin as possible with clothing.
Hiking in the Taos mountains can also lead to sunburn. Be sure to apply sunscreen to all exposed skin, and wear a hat and sunglasses. Hike in the early morning or late afternoon to avoid the peak sun hours.
Preventing sunburn in Taos requires a proactive approach. Understand the science behind high-altitude UV exposure, choose the right sunscreen, apply it correctly, and take other protective measures like wearing clothing and seeking shade. And if you do get burned, treat it promptly and effectively. Enjoy the beauty of Taos, but respect the sun.