Taos Tans: Altitude Lies Burning Summer Youth?
By Franklin Everett ShawThe sun feels amazing on your skin, doesn’t it? That warmth, that glow…it’s practically synonymous with health and vitality. But hold on a second, especially if you’re planning a trip to, or already living in, a high-altitude haven like Taos, New Mexico. That “healthy glow” could be a dangerous illusion, and that seemingly harmless sun could be doing more damage than you realize.
Taos, with its stunning landscapes and vibrant art scene, sits at a breathtaking elevation of nearly 7,000 feet. This altitude, while offering incredible views, also means significantly increased ultraviolet (UV) radiation exposure. The atmosphere is thinner, filtering less of the sun’s harmful rays.
So, how do you enjoy the beauty of Taos without turning into a human raisin? It’s all about understanding the risks and taking proactive steps to protect yourself. Let’s dive into the specifics.
First, let’s tackle the myth of the “Taos tan.” Many believe that a tan acquired at high altitude is somehow superior or more protective. This is simply false. A tan is a sign of skin damage, regardless of where you get it. Your skin is producing melanin in response to UV radiation, trying to shield itself from further harm. A “Taos tan” is just a sign that you’re getting more sun damage, faster.
Now, sunscreen. It’s your first line of defense, but not all sunscreens are created equal, especially at high altitudes. You need a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher. Broad-spectrum means it protects against both UVA and UVB rays.
But here’s the kicker: SPF ratings are determined under controlled laboratory conditions, often at sea level. At 7,000 feet, that SPF 30 might not be performing as advertised. Consider bumping up to SPF 50 or even higher for optimal protection.
Let’s look at some readily available sunscreen brands in New Mexico and how they stack up for high-altitude use.
Neutrogena Ultra Sheer Dry-Touch: Widely available, affordable, and offers broad-spectrum protection. However, its water resistance is limited, and it can feel greasy on some skin types. For Taos, reapply frequently, especially if you’re sweating or swimming.
EltaMD UV Clear Broad-Spectrum SPF 46: A dermatologist favorite, this sunscreen is lightweight, oil-free, and contains niacinamide, which can help with redness and inflammation. It’s a great option for sensitive skin, but it’s pricier than Neutrogena. The higher SPF is beneficial for the increased UV exposure in Taos.
Blue Lizard Australian Sunscreen: Known for its mineral-based formula (zinc oxide and titanium dioxide), Blue Lizard provides excellent broad-spectrum protection and is water-resistant. It’s a good choice for those with sensitive skin or allergies, but it can leave a white cast, especially on darker skin tones. The mineral-based protection is particularly effective in reflecting the intense sunlight at high altitudes.
La Roche-Posay Anthelios Melt-In Sunscreen Milk SPF 60: This sunscreen offers very high SPF protection and is formulated with antioxidants. It’s a good option for those who are particularly sun-sensitive or who spend a lot of time outdoors. It’s also relatively expensive.
Don’t just slap on some sunscreen and call it a day. Application is key. Apply generously, about an ounce (a shot glass full) for your entire body, 15-30 minutes before heading outside. Don’t forget often-missed areas like your ears, the back of your neck, and the tops of your feet. Reapply every two hours, or more frequently if you’re swimming or sweating.
A common mistake is thinking that sunscreen is a one-and-done deal. It’s not. The sun’s intensity in Taos demands diligent reapplication. Set a timer on your phone to remind you.
Sun-protective clothing is another crucial element. Think beyond just a t-shirt. Look for clothing with an Ultraviolet Protection Factor (UPF) rating. UPF measures how much UV radiation can penetrate the fabric. A UPF of 50 means that only 1/50th of the sun’s UV radiation can pass through.
Wide-brimmed hats are essential for protecting your face, neck, and ears. Sunglasses are also a must to shield your eyes from UV damage, which can lead to cataracts and other eye problems. Choose sunglasses that block 99-100% of UVA and UVB rays.
Timing is everything. The sun’s rays are strongest between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. If possible, schedule outdoor activities for early morning or late afternoon. Seek shade whenever possible, especially during peak hours.
Many people believe that because they’ve acclimatized to the altitude, they’re somehow more resistant to sun damage. This is another dangerous misconception. Altitude acclimatization helps your body adjust to lower oxygen levels, but it doesn’t make you immune to UV radiation.
Here’s a real-world scenario: Imagine you’re visiting Taos for a ski trip in February. The sun is reflecting off the snow, intensifying the UV radiation. You might think it’s not that strong because it’s winter, but you’re wrong. Snow reflects up to 80% of UV rays, significantly increasing your exposure. In this situation, sunscreen, lip balm with SPF, sunglasses, and protective clothing are absolutely essential.
Another challenge is remembering to protect children. Their skin is more sensitive to UV radiation than adult skin. Use sunscreen specifically formulated for children and encourage them to wear hats and sunglasses.
Let’s talk about lip balm with SPF. Your lips are particularly vulnerable to sun damage. Choose a lip balm with an SPF of at least 30 and reapply frequently.
Finally, be aware of medications that can increase your sun sensitivity. Certain antibiotics, antidepressants, and acne medications can make your skin more susceptible to sunburn. Talk to your doctor or pharmacist about any potential photosensitivity risks associated with your medications.
Don’t let the allure of a “Taos tan” fool you. Protect your skin, enjoy the beauty of Taos responsibly, and stay healthy. The mountains will still be there tomorrow, and you’ll be able to enjoy them without the painful reminder of a sunburn.