Taos Teens: Altitude Sun Stealing Lip Balm Youth?
By Franklin Everett ShawHave you ever felt like you’re battling the sun just by walking to class in Taos? The New Mexico sun, especially at 7,000 feet, is no joke. It’s not just your skin that’s at risk; your lips are incredibly vulnerable, and for teens, who are often outdoors and maybe not the best at remembering sunscreen, the damage can add up fast.
Living in a high-altitude environment like Taos presents unique challenges when it comes to sun protection. The thinner atmosphere means less UV radiation is absorbed, leading to increased exposure and a higher risk of sun damage, even on cloudy days. This is especially critical for teens, whose skin is still developing and potentially more susceptible to long-term harm. Let’s dive into how to keep those teen lips healthy and protected.
The science is pretty straightforward. UV radiation increases with altitude. For every 1,000 feet you ascend, UV levels rise by approximately 4-5%. Taos, sitting at over 7,000 feet, experiences significantly higher UV radiation than lower-altitude locations. This means that even a short walk to school or a quick ski run can lead to sunburned lips if they’re not properly protected.
Now, let’s talk lip balm. Not all lip balms are created equal, especially when it comes to sun protection. You need to look for a lip balm with a Sun Protection Factor (SPF) of 30 or higher. SPF measures the amount of time it takes for sun-exposed skin to redden compared to unprotected skin. An SPF of 30 blocks about 97% of UVB rays, which are the primary cause of sunburn.
Here’s a breakdown of some lip balms you can find locally in Taos, and how they stack up:
ChapStick Sun Defense: Often readily available at local pharmacies like Walgreens or Smiths. It usually has an SPF of 25, which is okay, but not ideal for Taos’ intense sun. It’s also petroleum-based, which can be drying for some.
Blistex Medicated Lip Balm: While great for soothing chapped lips, the SPF is typically around 15. This is insufficient for high-altitude sun protection.
Sun Bum SPF 30 Sunscreen Lip Balm: A better option. It’s readily available at Target in Santa Fe (a short drive) or online. It’s broad-spectrum, meaning it protects against both UVA and UVB rays, and it’s often made with moisturizing ingredients like shea butter and vitamin E.
Badger Balm SPF 30 Lip Balm: Another excellent choice, often found at natural food stores like Cid’s Food Market in Taos. It’s made with organic ingredients and provides broad-spectrum protection.
EltaMD UV Lip Balm SPF 31: This is a medical-grade option, often available at dermatology offices or online. It’s fragrance-free, paraben-free, and provides excellent protection.
The key is to read the label. Don’t assume a lip balm has SPF just because it’s marketed for outdoor use. Look for the SPF number clearly displayed on the packaging. Also, check for “broad spectrum” protection, which means it protects against both UVA and UVB rays. UVA rays contribute to premature aging and skin cancer, while UVB rays cause sunburn.
Getting teens to actually use lip balm consistently is another challenge. Here are some tips:
Make it accessible: Keep lip balm in multiple locations – backpack, purse, car, bedside table. The easier it is to reach, the more likely they are to use it.
Appeal to their preferences: Let them choose the flavor or scent. If they like it, they’re more likely to use it. Sun Bum, for example, has fun flavors like coconut and mango.
Lead by example: If they see you using lip balm regularly, they’re more likely to follow suit.
Educate them: Explain the risks of sun damage and the importance of protecting their lips. Show them pictures of what sun damage looks like long-term. Teens are more likely to take action if they understand the consequences.
Make it a habit: Encourage them to apply lip balm every morning before leaving the house, and reapply throughout the day, especially after eating, drinking, or participating in outdoor activities.
Address concerns about appearance: Some teens might be hesitant to use lip balm because they think it looks greasy or shiny. Opt for matte or sheer formulas.
Consider tinted lip balms: For teens who wear makeup, a tinted lip balm with SPF can provide both color and protection.
Don’t forget about winter: The sun’s rays are just as strong in the winter, especially when reflected off the snow. Encourage them to use lip balm year-round.
One common mistake is thinking that one application of lip balm is enough for the entire day. SPF wears off over time, especially after eating, drinking, or sweating. Reapplication is crucial, ideally every two hours, or more frequently if they’re swimming or sweating heavily.
Another pitfall is using expired lip balm. The active ingredients in sunscreen can degrade over time, making it less effective. Check the expiration date on the packaging and discard any lip balm that’s past its prime.
Finally, remember that lip balm is just one part of sun protection. Encourage your teens to also wear hats, sunglasses, and sunscreen on other exposed skin.
Living in Taos means embracing the outdoors, but it also means taking extra precautions to protect yourself from the sun. By choosing the right lip balm and encouraging consistent use, you can help your teens keep their lips healthy and protected for years to come. Don’t underestimate the power of a good lip balm – it’s a small investment that can make a big difference in their long-term health.