Taos Tans: Altitude Sun Lies Burning Lip Savings?

By Franklin Everett Shaw

January 29, 2026

The sun feels amazing on your skin, especially after a long Denver winter. But that golden glow you’re chasing could be a fast track to wrinkles and, worse, skin cancer. Living in Denver or Albuquerque, and even visiting Taos, New Mexico, means you’re closer to the sun and its damaging UV rays. Let’s ditch the tanning myths and get real about protecting your skin.

High altitude living significantly increases your exposure to UV radiation. For every 1,000 feet you ascend, UV levels increase by approximately 4-5%. Denver sits at 5,280 feet, Albuquerque at around 5,300 feet, and Taos boasts an elevation of nearly 7,000 feet. This means you’re getting a much stronger dose of UV radiation than someone living at sea level.

The myth that a base tan protects you is dangerous. A tan is a sign of skin damage, not protection. It’s your skin’s attempt to defend itself after being injured by UV radiation. A “base tan” only provides an SPF of around 3, which is woefully inadequate in high-altitude environments.

Think of it this way: that “healthy glow” is actually your skin screaming for help. It’s like saying a sunburn is a good thing because it means your skin is trying to heal. It’s not. It’s damage.

Accelerated aging is a real concern. UV radiation breaks down collagen and elastin, the proteins that keep your skin firm and youthful. This leads to wrinkles, sagging, and age spots. The higher the altitude, the faster this process occurs.

Skin cancer rates are higher in high-altitude areas. Melanoma, the deadliest form of skin cancer, is directly linked to UV exposure. Basal cell carcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma are also more common in sunny, high-altitude regions.

So, what can you do to protect yourself? Sunscreen is your first line of defense. But not all sunscreens are created equal. You need a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher. Broad-spectrum means it protects against both UVA and UVB rays.

Look for sunscreens containing zinc oxide or titanium dioxide. These are mineral sunscreens that provide excellent protection and are generally considered safer for your skin and the environment. Chemical sunscreens absorb into the skin and convert UV rays into heat, while mineral sunscreens sit on top of the skin and physically block the rays.

Where can you find these sunscreens in Denver and Albuquerque? REI and Whole Foods are excellent options. REI carries a wide range of high-performance sunscreens designed for outdoor activities. Look for brands like Badger Balm, Thinksport, and EltaMD. Whole Foods offers a selection of natural and organic sunscreens, including those from Alba Botanica and Goddess Garden.

Don’t skimp on application. Most people don’t use enough sunscreen. You should apply about one ounce (a shot glass full) to your entire body 30 minutes before going outside. Reapply every two hours, or more often if you’re swimming or sweating.

Don’t forget about your face, ears, neck, and the tops of your feet. These areas are often overlooked but are highly susceptible to sun damage. Consider using a separate sunscreen specifically formulated for the face, as these tend to be lighter and less likely to clog pores.

UV-protective clothing is another essential tool. Look for clothing with a UPF (Ultraviolet Protection Factor) rating of 30 or higher. UPF indicates how much UV radiation the fabric blocks. A UPF of 50 means the fabric blocks 98% of UV rays.

REI is a great place to find UPF clothing. They carry a variety of shirts, pants, hats, and other accessories with UPF protection. Look for brands like Columbia, Patagonia, and Coolibar.

Hats are crucial for protecting your face, ears, and neck. Choose a wide-brimmed hat that provides shade for your entire face and neck. Baseball caps are better than nothing, but they don’t offer as much protection.

Sunglasses are also essential. UV radiation can damage your eyes, leading to cataracts and other vision problems. Choose sunglasses that block 100% of UVA and UVB rays.

Planning a trip to Taos Ski Valley? The altitude there is even higher, making sun protection even more critical. The sun reflects off the snow, increasing your exposure to UV radiation.

Here’s a step-by-step guide to protecting yourself while skiing or snowboarding in Taos:

1. Apply a broad-spectrum, high-SPF sunscreen to all exposed skin 30 minutes before hitting the slopes.
2. Wear a UPF-rated neck gaiter or balaclava to protect your face and neck.
3. Wear sunglasses or goggles that block 100% of UVA and UVB rays.
4. Reapply sunscreen every two hours, or more often if you’re sweating.
5. Take breaks in the lodge to give your skin a rest from the sun.

Common mistakes developers make when thinking about sun protection:

• Thinking that sunscreen is a one-time application. Reapplication is key, especially after sweating or swimming.
• Not using enough sunscreen. Most people underestimate the amount of sunscreen they need.
• Forgetting to protect their lips. Use a lip balm with SPF.
• Relying on makeup with SPF. Makeup with SPF is not a substitute for sunscreen.
• Ignoring cloudy days. UV radiation can penetrate clouds.

Don’t let the allure of a tan cloud your judgment. Protect your skin and enjoy the beauty of Denver, Albuquerque, and Taos without risking your health. Remember, healthy skin is beautiful skin.