**Taos Teens: Is Altitude Sun Cracking Summer Smiles?**

By Franklin Everett Shaw

January 8, 2026

The sun feels amazing on your skin, especially after a long winter. But for teens in Taos, New Mexico, that warmth comes with a hidden danger: an increased risk of sun damage.

Taos, nestled high in the Sangre de Cristo Mountains, boasts stunning landscapes and a vibrant outdoor culture. This high altitude, however, significantly intensifies the sun’s harmful ultraviolet (UV) radiation. This means that teens who spend time outdoors – hiking, skiing, playing sports, or just hanging out with friends – are exposed to a much higher dose of UV rays than their peers at lower elevations. This increased exposure elevates their risk of sunburn, premature aging, and, most seriously, skin cancer later in life.

This article will explore the unique challenges of sun protection for teens in Taos and provide practical, actionable strategies to stay safe while enjoying the outdoors.

The Altitude Factor: Why Taos Teens Are at Higher Risk

For every 1,000 feet above sea level, UV radiation increases by approximately 4-5%. Taos sits at an elevation of nearly 7,000 feet. This translates to roughly a 30% increase in UV exposure compared to sea level.

• Less atmosphere to filter UV rays: The thinner air at higher altitudes means less atmosphere to absorb and scatter UV radiation.
• Reflection from snow: During the winter months, snow reflects up to 80% of UV radiation, effectively doubling exposure. Even on cloudy days, UV rays can penetrate clouds and reflect off the snow.
• Year-round risk: While summer is often associated with sun damage, the high altitude in Taos means that UV radiation is a concern year-round.

Practical Sun Protection Strategies for Taos Teens

Protecting your skin from the sun doesn’t mean staying indoors. It’s about making smart choices and incorporating sun-safe habits into your daily routine.

Sunscreen: Your First Line of Defense

Sunscreen is crucial, but it’s only effective if used correctly.

• Choose the right SPF: Opt for a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher. Broad-spectrum means it protects against both UVA and UVB rays.
• Apply generously: Most people don’t use enough sunscreen. Aim for about one ounce (a shot glass full) to cover your entire body.
• Reapply frequently: Reapply sunscreen every two hours, or more often if you’re swimming or sweating. Set a timer on your phone to remind you.
• Don’t forget often-missed spots: Ears, neck, lips (use a lip balm with SPF), tops of feet, and scalp (if you have thinning hair) are often overlooked.
• Consider specific brands: Look for sunscreens formulated for high-altitude environments. Brands like EltaMD, La Roche-Posay, and Neutrogena offer excellent broad-spectrum protection and are readily available at local pharmacies in Taos.
• Water-resistant is not waterproof: No sunscreen is truly waterproof. Water-resistant sunscreens offer protection for a limited time (usually 40-80 minutes) while swimming or sweating.

Clothing: Your Second Skin

Clothing provides a physical barrier against the sun’s rays.

• Choose tightly woven fabrics: Tightly woven fabrics offer better protection than loosely woven ones. Hold the fabric up to the light; if you can see through it easily, it’s not providing much protection.
• Darker colors offer more protection: Darker colors absorb more UV radiation than lighter colors.
• Consider UPF clothing: UPF (Ultraviolet Protection Factor) clothing is specifically designed to block UV rays. Look for UPF-rated shirts, pants, and hats, especially for activities like hiking or skiing. Brands like Patagonia and Columbia offer a wide range of UPF clothing.
• Hats are essential: Wear a wide-brimmed hat that shades your face, ears, and neck. Baseball caps offer some protection, but they leave your ears and neck exposed.
• Sunglasses are a must: Protect your eyes from UV radiation with sunglasses that block 99-100% of UVA and UVB rays. Look for sunglasses labeled with “UV400” protection.

Timing is Everything: Avoid Peak Sun Hours

The sun’s rays are strongest between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m.

• Schedule outdoor activities for early morning or late afternoon: If possible, plan your hikes, sports, or other outdoor activities for times when the sun’s rays are less intense.
• Seek shade: When you’re outdoors during peak sun hours, seek shade whenever possible. Trees, umbrellas, and buildings can provide some protection.
• Be aware of reflective surfaces: Remember that UV rays can reflect off snow, water, and sand, increasing your exposure.

Addressing Common Misconceptions About Sun Protection in Taos

Many teens have misconceptions about sun protection, which can lead to risky behavior.

• “I don’t need sunscreen on cloudy days.” False. UV rays can penetrate clouds.
• “I have dark skin, so I don’t need sunscreen.” False. While darker skin tones have more melanin, which provides some natural protection, everyone is susceptible to sun damage and skin cancer.
• “I only need sunscreen when I’m at the pool or beach.” False. You’re exposed to UV radiation whenever you’re outdoors, even on a cloudy day in your backyard.
• “A base tan protects me from sunburn.” False. A tan is a sign of skin damage. It provides minimal protection against further sun exposure.

Community Programs and School Initiatives in Taos

Local community programs and schools can play a vital role in promoting sun-safe behaviors among teens in Taos.

• Sun safety education: Schools can incorporate sun safety education into their health curriculum, teaching students about the risks of sun exposure and how to protect themselves.
• Free sunscreen dispensers: Schools and community centers can install free sunscreen dispensers to make it easier for teens to protect their skin.
• Shade structures: Parks and playgrounds can install shade structures to provide respite from the sun.
• Community events: Local organizations can host community events that promote sun safety, such as sunscreen giveaways and educational workshops.
• Partner with local dermatologists: Invite dermatologists to speak at schools and community events about skin cancer prevention and early detection.

Challenges and Pitfalls

Even with the best intentions, teens may face challenges in consistently practicing sun-safe behaviors.

• Peer pressure: Teens may feel self-conscious about wearing sunscreen or hats, especially if their friends aren’t doing the same.
• Lack of awareness: Many teens are simply unaware of the risks of sun exposure and the importance of sun protection.
• Forgetfulness: It’s easy to forget to apply sunscreen, especially when you’re busy or having fun.
• Cost: Sunscreen can be expensive, especially for teens who need to reapply it frequently.

Overcoming the Challenges

• Educate and empower: Provide teens with accurate information about the risks of sun exposure and the benefits of sun protection.
• Make it cool: Promote sun-safe behaviors as cool and trendy. Partner with local influencers to spread the message.
• Make it accessible: Ensure that sunscreen is readily available and affordable.
• Make it a habit: Encourage teens to incorporate sun protection into their daily routine, just like brushing their teeth.
• Lead by example: Parents, teachers, and other adults should model sun-safe behaviors.

Real-World Scenario: The Taos High School Ski Team

The Taos High School ski team faces a unique challenge: intense sun exposure at high altitude, combined with reflective snow.

• Solution: The ski team could implement a mandatory sunscreen policy, requiring all team members to apply sunscreen before each practice and competition.
• They could also provide team members with UPF-rated clothing and sunglasses.
• Coaches could schedule practices for early morning or late afternoon to minimize sun exposure.

Actionable Insights for Taos Teens

• Download a UV index app: These apps provide real-time information about the UV index in your area, helping you make informed decisions about sun protection.
• Keep sunscreen in your backpack or car: This will ensure that you always have sunscreen on hand when you need it.
• Set a reminder on your phone to reapply sunscreen every two hours.
• Talk to your friends about sun safety: Encourage them to protect their skin as well.
• Visit a dermatologist regularly for skin cancer screenings.

Protecting your skin from the sun is an investment in your future health. By adopting these practical strategies and promoting sun-safe behaviors, teens in Taos can enjoy the outdoors without putting themselves at risk. Remember, a little prevention goes a long way in protecting against the harmful effects of the sun.