**Taos Tans: Altitude Air Cracking Summer Youth?**
By Franklin Everett ShawHave you ever looked at a photo of yourself from a ski trip to Taos and thought, "Wow, I look healthy!"? That “Taos Tan” might seem like a badge of honor, a testament to your adventurous spirit, but it’s actually a sign of skin damage. The high altitude of Taos, New Mexico, combined with the intense sun, creates a perfect storm for UV exposure, making proper skin protection absolutely crucial. Let’s dive into how to shield yourself from the sun’s harmful rays and keep your skin healthy, no matter how many black diamond runs you conquer.
The myth of the “healthy tan” needs to be shattered. A tan is your skin’s response to injury. It’s producing melanin to protect itself from further UV damage. That bronze glow is essentially a shield being raised after the battle has already begun. It’s not a sign of health; it’s a sign of damage.
Taos, sitting at over 7,000 feet, presents a unique challenge. UV radiation increases by approximately 4% for every 1,000 feet above sea level. This means you’re getting significantly more UV exposure in Taos than you would at sea level. Add to that the reflection from snow in the winter, which can nearly double your UV exposure, and you’ve got a recipe for serious sun damage.
So, what’s the solution? It’s a multi-pronged approach, combining the right sunscreen, protective clothing, and a consistent commitment to sun safety.
First, let’s talk sunscreen. Forget SPF 15 or 30. In Taos, you need SPF 50 or higher, and it needs to be broad-spectrum, meaning it protects against both UVA and UVB rays. UVA rays contribute to aging, while UVB rays cause sunburn. Both can lead to skin cancer.
Application is key. You need to apply sunscreen liberally, about an ounce (a shot glass full) for your entire body, and reapply every two hours, or more often if you’re sweating or swimming. Don’t forget often-missed spots like your ears, the back of your neck, and the tops of your feet.
Choose the right formula. For active pursuits like skiing or hiking, opt for a water-resistant and sweat-resistant formula. Mineral sunscreens containing zinc oxide or titanium dioxide are excellent choices, as they are generally gentler on sensitive skin and provide broad-spectrum protection.
Don’t rely solely on sunscreen. Sunscreen is a crucial tool, but it’s not a suit of armor. It should be used in conjunction with other protective measures.
Next up: protective clothing. This is where you can really make a difference.
Long sleeves and pants: When possible, wear long-sleeved shirts and pants, especially during peak sun hours (typically 10 am to 4 pm). Look for clothing with a UPF (Ultraviolet Protection Factor) rating. UPF clothing is specifically designed to block UV rays.
Hats: A wide-brimmed hat is essential for protecting your face, ears, and neck. Baseball caps are better than nothing, but they leave your ears and neck exposed.
Sunglasses: Don’t forget your eyes! UV exposure can damage your eyes and increase your risk of cataracts. Wear sunglasses that block 100% of UVA and UVB rays. Wraparound styles offer the best protection.
Now, let’s address some common mistakes and pitfalls.
Thinking you’re safe on cloudy days: Clouds don’t block UV rays. In fact, they can sometimes amplify them. UV radiation can penetrate clouds, so you still need to protect your skin even on overcast days.
Skipping sunscreen in the winter: This is a big one. The sun’s rays are just as strong in the winter, and the snow reflects UV radiation, increasing your exposure.
Not reapplying sunscreen: Sunscreen breaks down over time, especially when you’re sweating or swimming. Set a timer to remind yourself to reapply every two hours.
Using expired sunscreen: Sunscreen has an expiration date. Check the expiration date on your bottle and discard any sunscreen that is past its prime.
Relying on makeup with SPF: While makeup with SPF is better than nothing, it’s usually not enough to provide adequate protection. You need to apply a separate sunscreen underneath your makeup.
Beyond sunscreen and clothing, consider these additional tips:
Seek shade: Take breaks in the shade, especially during peak sun hours.
Be aware of reflective surfaces: Water, snow, and sand can all reflect UV radiation, increasing your exposure.
Check the UV index: The UV index is a measure of the strength of the sun’s UV rays. You can find the UV index for Taos on weather websites or apps. When the UV index is high (3 or above), take extra precautions.
Consider oral sunscreens: While not a replacement for topical sunscreen, some studies suggest that certain oral supplements, like those containing polypodium leucotomos extract, may offer additional protection against sun damage. Consult with your dermatologist before taking any supplements.
For those living in or visiting Taos, here are some local resources:
Taos Dermatology: Located at 1337 Gusdorf Rd Suite B, Taos, NM 87571, they offer comprehensive skin care services, including skin cancer screenings and treatment.
Local Pharmacies: Smith’s and Walgreens in Taos carry a wide range of sunscreens, including mineral-based options. Look for brands like EltaMD, La Roche-Posay, and CeraVe.
Outdoor Retailers: Taos Mountain Outfitters and Cottam’s Ski Shops offer UPF clothing and accessories.
Protecting your skin in Taos is an ongoing commitment, not just a vacation afterthought. By understanding the risks, adopting a comprehensive sun protection strategy, and utilizing local resources, you can enjoy the beauty of Taos without sacrificing the health of your skin. Ditch the “Taos Tan” mentality and embrace a sun-safe lifestyle. Your skin will thank you for it in the long run. Remember, prevention is always better (and cheaper!) than treatment.