Taos Tans: Altitude Air Hiding Summer Laser Harm?
By Franklin Everett ShawThe sun feels different in Taos. It’s not just the dry heat; it’s a penetrating intensity that seems to amplify every ray. Many visitors, and even long-time residents, underestimate its power, often leading to painful sunburns and, more seriously, increased long-term risk of skin cancer.
Taos, New Mexico, nestled high in the Sangre de Cristo Mountains, presents a unique challenge to sun protection. The altitude, typically around 7,000 feet, means the atmosphere is thinner, filtering less UV radiation. This translates to a significantly higher UV index compared to sea-level locations, even on seemingly cloudy days.
For active adults over 50, who are often drawn to Taos for its outdoor recreation opportunities like hiking, skiing, and fly fishing, this increased UV exposure is a serious concern. Aging skin is already more susceptible to sun damage, and the cumulative effect of years of sun exposure only exacerbates the problem.
Sunscreen alone, while essential, is often not enough in Taos. Many people make the mistake of applying too little sunscreen, not reapplying frequently enough (every two hours, or immediately after swimming or sweating), or using a sunscreen with an insufficient SPF. A broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher is a must, but it’s just one piece of the puzzle.
Advanced sun protection strategies are crucial. This includes:
UPF Clothing: Unlike regular clothing, UPF (Ultraviolet Protection Factor) clothing is specifically designed to block UV rays. Look for long-sleeved shirts, pants, and hats with a UPF rating of 30 or higher. Many outdoor retailers in Taos, like Taos Mountain Outfitters, carry a wide selection of UPF clothing.
Timing Outdoor Activities: The sun’s rays are strongest between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. Try to schedule outdoor activities for early morning or late afternoon to minimize exposure during peak UV index hours. The local news in Taos often provides daily UV index forecasts.
Wide-Brimmed Hats and Sunglasses: A wide-brimmed hat provides shade for the face, ears, and neck, while sunglasses protect the eyes from harmful UV rays. Choose sunglasses that block 99-100% of UVA and UVB rays.
Seeking Shade: When possible, seek shade under trees, umbrellas, or other structures. Remember that UV rays can still reflect off surfaces like snow, water, and sand, so shade alone may not be sufficient.
Sunscreen Application Technique: Apply sunscreen liberally 15-30 minutes before sun exposure. Don’t forget often-missed areas like the ears, neck, back of the hands, and tops of the feet. Reapply every two hours, or more frequently if swimming or sweating.
Beyond the increased risk of sunburn and skin cancer, the altitude in Taos can also affect common skin conditions. The dry air can exacerbate conditions like eczema and psoriasis, leading to increased itching and inflammation. Using a thick, moisturizing cream regularly can help to combat dryness.
Furthermore, some individuals may experience increased sensitivity to cosmetic laser treatments at higher altitudes. This is because the skin is already under stress from the sun and dry air, making it more vulnerable to the effects of laser treatments. It’s crucial to consult with a qualified dermatologist or cosmetic surgeon who has experience treating patients in high-altitude environments before undergoing any laser procedures. They can adjust the treatment parameters to minimize the risk of complications.
A common pitfall is assuming that sunscreen applied in the morning will last all day. This is simply not the case, especially when engaging in outdoor activities. Reapplication is key to maintaining adequate sun protection. Another mistake is relying solely on sunscreen and neglecting other protective measures like UPF clothing and seeking shade.
Consider the case of a 60-year-old avid hiker from Dallas who visited Taos for a week-long hiking trip. Despite applying sunscreen daily, she developed a severe sunburn on her face and arms. She had underestimated the intensity of the sun at high altitude and had not reapplied sunscreen frequently enough. She also hadn’t worn a hat or UPF clothing. This experience highlights the importance of taking extra precautions when spending time outdoors in high-altitude locations.
Another challenge is the misconception that cloudy days offer adequate protection from the sun. While clouds can block some UV rays, they don’t block all of them. In fact, UV radiation can penetrate clouds, and it can even be intensified by reflection off the clouds. It’s essential to wear sunscreen and other protective measures even on cloudy days.
For those considering cosmetic procedures, it’s vital to inform your practitioner about your location in Taos. They may need to adjust laser settings or recommend pre- and post-treatment skincare routines to mitigate potential risks associated with altitude and sun exposure. For example, they might suggest a more intensive moisturizing regimen or advise delaying treatment during periods of intense sun exposure.
Living or visiting Taos requires a proactive approach to sun protection. It’s not enough to simply apply sunscreen and hope for the best. By understanding the unique challenges posed by high altitude and intense sun, and by adopting advanced sun protection strategies, active adults over 50 can safely enjoy all that Taos has to offer. Remember, consistent and comprehensive sun protection is the key to maintaining healthy skin and preventing long-term damage.