Taos Tanning: Altitude Sun Burning Filler Savings?
By Franklin Everett ShawThe sting of sunburn is a universal summer experience, but in Taos, New Mexico, that sting can be particularly sharp. It’s not just the sun; it’s the altitude, the intensity, and a lack of awareness that combine to create a perfect storm for painful burns. We’re not talking about a little redness; we’re talking about blistering, peeling, and potentially long-term skin damage.
Taos sits at a breathtaking 6,969 feet above sea level. This elevation significantly reduces the atmosphere’s filtering effect on ultraviolet (UV) radiation. Less atmosphere means more UV rays reaching your skin, and that translates directly to a higher risk of sunburn.
For every 1,000 feet of elevation gain, UV radiation exposure increases by approximately 4-5%. That means in Taos, you’re looking at roughly a 30-35% increase in UV exposure compared to sea level. This isn’t some abstract statistic; it’s a real, tangible threat to your skin.
But it’s not just the altitude. New Mexico, and Taos in particular, experiences intense sunlight due to its latitude and clear skies. The sun’s rays are more direct, and there’s less cloud cover to provide natural protection.
Many visitors, and even some residents, underestimate the power of the Taos sun. They might apply sunscreen sparingly, forget to reapply, or skip it altogether on seemingly cloudy days. This is a critical mistake.
So, how do you protect yourself in this high-altitude, high-intensity environment? It’s more than just slapping on any old sunscreen. It requires a strategic approach tailored to the specific challenges of Taos.
First, understand your 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, both of which contribute to skin damage and cancer.
SPF, or Sun Protection Factor, measures how well the sunscreen protects you from UVB rays. An SPF of 30 blocks about 97% of UVB rays, while an SPF of 50 blocks about 98%. While higher SPFs offer slightly more protection, they don’t necessarily last longer.
The key is application. Most people don’t use enough sunscreen. You should apply about one ounce (a shot glass full) to your entire body, and a teaspoon to your face and neck.
Don’t forget often-missed areas like your ears, the back of your neck, and the tops of your feet. These areas are particularly vulnerable and often overlooked.
Reapplication is crucial, especially in Taos. Sunscreen should be reapplied every two hours, or more frequently if you’re swimming or sweating. Even “water-resistant” sunscreens lose their effectiveness after a while.
Consider the type of sunscreen. Mineral sunscreens, containing zinc oxide or titanium dioxide, are generally considered safer and more effective than chemical sunscreens. They work by creating a physical barrier on the skin, reflecting UV rays away.
Chemical sunscreens, on the other hand, absorb UV rays. Some studies have raised concerns about the potential health effects of certain chemicals found in these sunscreens.
Beyond sunscreen, protective clothing is your next line of defense. Wear long sleeves, pants, and a wide-brimmed hat whenever possible. Darker colors generally offer more protection than lighter colors.
Look for clothing with a UPF (Ultraviolet Protection Factor) rating. UPF indicates how much UV radiation the fabric blocks. A UPF of 50 means the fabric blocks 98% of UV rays.
Sunglasses are essential for protecting your eyes from UV damage. Choose sunglasses that block 99-100% of UVA and UVB rays. Wrap-around styles offer the best protection by preventing sunlight from entering from the sides.
Seek shade, especially during the peak sun hours of 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. This is when the sun’s rays are strongest. Plan your outdoor activities accordingly.
Be extra cautious on reflective surfaces like snow and water. These surfaces can reflect UV rays back onto your skin, increasing your exposure. This is particularly relevant in Taos during the winter months when skiing and snowboarding are popular.
Now, let’s talk about the cost. Sunburn isn’t just painful; it can be expensive. A severe sunburn can require a visit to a doctor or even the emergency room.
The cost of treating a severe sunburn in Taos can range from a simple office visit copay to hundreds or even thousands of dollars for emergency room care. This doesn’t include the cost of prescription medications, such as pain relievers or topical steroids.
Consider the long-term costs as well. Repeated sunburns increase your risk of skin cancer, which can require costly and invasive treatments. Melanoma, the deadliest form of skin cancer, can be particularly expensive to treat.
Preventative measures, on the other hand, are relatively inexpensive. A good quality sunscreen costs around $10-$20. A wide-brimmed hat can be purchased for $20-$30. Sunglasses can range from $20 to hundreds of dollars, but even inexpensive ones offer significant protection.
Investing in sun protection is a smart financial decision. It’s far cheaper to prevent sunburn than to treat it. Think of it as an investment in your long-term health and well-being.
In Taos, you can find a variety of sun protection products at local pharmacies, grocery stores, and outdoor retailers. Mante’s Chow Cart, for example, carries a range of sunscreens and hats. Cid’s Food Market also offers a selection of sun protection products.
If you do get a sunburn, there are several local dermatologists who can provide treatment. Taos Dermatology offers a range of services, including skin cancer screenings and treatment for sunburns.
Common mistakes developers make when dealing with sun protection include:
- Underestimating the intensity of the Taos sun.
- Failing to apply enough sunscreen.
- Forgetting to reapply sunscreen.
- Not wearing protective clothing.
- Ignoring the risks of reflective surfaces.
To overcome these challenges, educate yourself about the risks of sun exposure in Taos. Make sun protection a habit, not an afterthought. Plan ahead and pack sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses whenever you’re going to be outdoors.
Remember, the Taos sun is beautiful, but it’s also powerful. Protect yourself, and you can enjoy all that this amazing place has to offer without the pain and expense of sunburn. Don’t let a preventable burn ruin your Taos experience.