Taos Tans: Altitude Sun Stealing Youth HA?
By Franklin Everett ShawHave you ever noticed how quickly time seems to fly in the mountains? It’s not just the fresh air and stunning views; it’s also the sun, relentlessly aging your skin at an accelerated rate. The “Taos Tan,” a badge of honor for some, is often a sign of cumulative sun damage that will show its true colors years down the line.
Taos, New Mexico, with its breathtaking landscapes and high altitude, presents a unique challenge when it comes to sun protection. The thinner atmosphere means less UV radiation is filtered out, making sun exposure significantly more intense. This isn’t just a Taos problem; mountain towns like Aspen, Colorado, and Park City, Utah, face similar challenges.
The higher you go, the stronger the sun’s rays become. For every 1,000 feet you ascend, UV radiation increases by approximately 4-5%. This means that at Taos’ elevation of nearly 7,000 feet, you’re exposed to significantly more UV radiation than you would be at sea level.
This increased UV exposure leads to accelerated aging, also known as photoaging. Photoaging manifests as wrinkles, sunspots, uneven skin tone, and a loss of elasticity. It’s not just about vanity; sun damage also increases your risk of skin cancer.
So, how do you combat the “Taos Tan” and protect your skin in high-altitude environments? It requires a comprehensive approach that goes beyond simply slapping on some sunscreen.
First, understand the enemy: UV radiation. There are two main types of UV rays that reach the earth’s surface: UVA and UVB. UVA rays penetrate deep into the skin, causing premature aging. UVB rays are responsible for sunburns and play a key role in the development of skin cancer.
Sunscreen is your first line of defense, but not all sunscreens are created equal. You need a broad-spectrum sunscreen that protects against both UVA and UVB rays. Look for a Sun Protection Factor (SPF) of 30 or higher.
SPF measures how well a sunscreen protects against 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 to apply sunscreen liberally and reapply it every two hours, or more often if you’re sweating or swimming. Don’t skimp on the application; most people only apply about 25-50% of the recommended amount.
For your face, consider using a dedicated facial sunscreen. These are often formulated with ingredients that are less likely to clog pores or cause irritation. EltaMD UV Clear Broad-Spectrum SPF 46 is a popular choice, and readily available at many pharmacies in Taos.
For your body, look for a water-resistant sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher. Neutrogena Ultra Sheer Dry-Touch Sunscreen is a widely available and affordable option. You can find it at Smith’s or Cid’s Food Market in Taos.
Beyond sunscreen, protective clothing is crucial. Long sleeves, pants, and wide-brimmed hats can significantly reduce your sun exposure. Look for clothing with a Ultraviolet Protection Factor (UPF) rating.
UPF indicates how much UV radiation a fabric can block. A UPF of 50 means that only 1/50th of the sun’s UV radiation can penetrate the fabric. Many outdoor retailers in Taos, like Taos Mountain Outfitters, sell clothing with UPF ratings.
Sunglasses are also essential for protecting your eyes from UV damage. Look for sunglasses that block 100% of UVA and UVB rays. Prolonged sun exposure can lead to cataracts and other eye problems.
Timing is everything. The sun’s rays are strongest between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. If possible, limit your outdoor activities during these hours. Seek shade whenever possible.
Even on cloudy days, UV radiation can penetrate the clouds. Don’t be fooled into thinking you don’t need sun protection just because the sun isn’t shining brightly. In fact, snow reflects UV radiation, increasing your exposure.
Hydration plays a vital role in skin health. Drink plenty of water to keep your skin hydrated and healthy. Dehydration can make your skin more susceptible to sun damage.
Consider incorporating antioxidant-rich foods into your diet. Antioxidants help protect your skin from free radical damage caused by UV radiation. Berries, leafy greens, and nuts are all excellent sources of antioxidants.
One common mistake is forgetting to protect often-overlooked areas, such as the ears, neck, and tops of the feet. These areas are particularly vulnerable to sun damage. Don’t forget to apply sunscreen to these areas.
Another pitfall is relying solely on sunscreen and neglecting other sun protection measures. Sunscreen is just one piece of the puzzle. Protective clothing, sunglasses, and timing are equally important.
Many people underestimate the importance of reapplication. Sunscreen wears off over time, especially if you’re sweating or swimming. Reapply sunscreen every two hours, or more often if needed.
Don’t forget about your lips. Use a lip balm with an SPF of 30 or higher. Lips are particularly susceptible to sun damage and skin cancer.
For those engaging in winter sports in Taos Ski Valley or similar high-altitude locations like Aspen or Park City, the risk is amplified. The snow reflects UV rays, effectively doubling your exposure.
In these environments, consider using a physical sunscreen containing zinc oxide or titanium dioxide. These minerals create a physical barrier on the skin, reflecting UV rays away. They are also less likely to cause irritation.
Remember that altitude sickness can also affect your skin. Dehydration, a common symptom of altitude sickness, can make your skin more vulnerable to sun damage. Stay hydrated and acclimatize gradually to the altitude.
The “Taos Tan” might seem appealing in the short term, but the long-term consequences of sun damage are not worth it. By adopting a comprehensive sun protection strategy, you can enjoy the beauty of Taos and other high-altitude destinations without sacrificing the health and appearance of your skin.
Protecting your skin is an investment in your future health and well-being. Make sun protection a daily habit, and your skin will thank you for it. So, ditch the “Taos Tan” and embrace a healthy, sun-safe lifestyle.