**Taos Sunscreen: Altitude Hiding Summer Skin Burn?**
By Franklin Everett ShawThe desert sun feels different. It’s not just hotter; it’s brighter, more intense. You feel it even through your clothes, a relentless, penetrating force. This is especially true in places like Taos, New Mexico, where the altitude amplifies the sun’s power, turning a seemingly pleasant day into a recipe for a painful sunburn.
Taos, nestled high in the Sangre de Cristo Mountains, presents a unique challenge to sun protection. The thinner atmosphere at 7,000 feet means less UV radiation is filtered out. This, combined with the sun reflecting off the snow in winter or the adobe buildings year-round, creates a double whammy of sun exposure.
So, how do you protect yourself from the Taos sun? It’s not just about slapping on any old sunscreen. It requires a strategic approach, tailored to the specific conditions of this high-altitude desert environment.
First, understand the UV Index. Many weather apps now provide a UV Index forecast. In Taos, even on seemingly cloudy days, the UV Index can be surprisingly high. Anything above 3 warrants serious sun protection.
Next, choose the right sunscreen. Look for a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher. Broad-spectrum means it protects against both UVA and UVB rays. Mineral sunscreens, containing zinc oxide or titanium dioxide, are generally considered safer for your skin and the environment. They work by creating a physical barrier, reflecting the sun’s rays.
- Product Recommendations:
- Thinksport Everyday Face Sunscreen SPF 30: A good option for daily use, non-greasy and reef-friendly.
- Badger Balm SPF 30 Baby Sunscreen: A thicker, more moisturizing option, ideal for dry skin or high-altitude dryness.
- EltaMD UV Clear Broad-Spectrum SPF 46: A favorite among dermatologists, especially for sensitive skin.
Application is key. Most people don’t apply enough sunscreen. You should be using about one ounce (a shot glass full) to cover your entire body. Don’t forget often-missed areas like:
- Ears: Especially the tops of the ears.
- Back of the neck: Easily forgotten, especially with longer hair.
- Tops of feet: Particularly vulnerable when wearing sandals.
- Lips: Use a lip balm with SPF 30 or higher.
- Scalp: If you have thinning hair or a bald spot, apply sunscreen or wear a hat.
Reapplication is crucial. Sunscreen should be reapplied every two hours, or more frequently if you’re sweating or swimming. Set a timer on your phone to remind you.
For outdoor activities like skiing or hiking, consider these additional tips:
- Skiing: The snow reflects a significant amount of UV radiation. Wear a neck gaiter that can be pulled up to protect your face. Use ski goggles with UV protection.
- Hiking: Wear a wide-brimmed hat to shield your face and neck. Seek shade whenever possible, especially during the peak sun hours of 10 am to 4 pm. Consider wearing sun-protective clothing with a UPF (Ultraviolet Protection Factor) rating.
Common mistakes developers make when thinking about sun protection are:
- Assuming that because it’s cold, you don’t need sunscreen. This is especially dangerous in Taos during the winter, when the sun reflects off the snow.
- Relying solely on sunscreen. Sunscreen is just one part of a comprehensive sun protection strategy.
- Not reapplying sunscreen frequently enough.
- Using expired sunscreen. Sunscreen has an expiration date, and its effectiveness decreases over time.
- Not understanding the difference between SPF and broad-spectrum protection. SPF only measures protection against UVB rays, which cause sunburn. Broad-spectrum protection protects against both UVA and UVB rays, which contribute to skin aging and skin cancer.
Let’s talk about a real-world scenario. Imagine you’re visiting Taos for the annual Taos Solar Music Festival. You’re excited to see your favorite bands, but you’re also spending the entire day outdoors in the intense sun.
Here’s how to protect yourself:
- Apply a generous amount of broad-spectrum, SPF 30 or higher sunscreen to all exposed skin 30 minutes before heading out.
- Wear a wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses.
- Reapply sunscreen every two hours, or more frequently if you’re sweating.
- Seek shade during the peak sun hours.
- Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated, as sunburn can dehydrate you.
- Consider wearing sun-protective clothing.
Even with the best precautions, sunburn can still happen. If you do get sunburned, here’s what to do:
- Get out of the sun immediately.
- Apply cool compresses to the affected area.
- Take a cool bath or shower.
- Apply a moisturizing lotion, such as aloe vera.
- Drink plenty of fluids.
- Avoid picking or scratching the skin.
- If the sunburn is severe, see a doctor.
Protecting yourself from the sun in Taos is not just about avoiding a painful sunburn. It’s about protecting your skin from long-term damage, including premature aging and skin cancer. By understanding the unique challenges of the Taos environment and following these tips, you can enjoy all that this beautiful region has to offer, safely and responsibly. Remember, the sun in Taos is a powerful force, but with the right knowledge and preparation, you can enjoy its warmth without paying the price.