Taos Teens: Altitude Sun Hiding Lip Burn?

By Franklin Everett Shaw

January 11, 2026

The sun in Taos, New Mexico, feels different. It’s not just the dry air; it’s the intensity. Many newcomers, and even long-time residents, underestimate its power, especially when it comes to protecting their skin. Teenagers, often prioritizing style over sun safety, are particularly vulnerable to severe lip sunburns.

This guide is for you, the parents of Taos teens, to help you understand the risks and take proactive steps to protect your children’s lips from the harsh New Mexico sun. We’ll delve into specific sunscreen recommendations, explain how to recognize a severe burn, and share some local, natural remedies to soothe and heal damaged skin.

The Problem: High Altitude and Teen Behavior

Taos sits at an elevation of nearly 7,000 feet. At this altitude, the atmosphere is thinner, meaning less UV radiation is absorbed. This translates to a significant increase in UV exposure compared to lower elevations. For every 1,000 feet of elevation gain, UV levels increase by approximately 4-5%.

Teenagers, often spending hours outdoors skiing, hiking, or simply hanging out, are exposed to this intense UV radiation. Compounding the problem is the common teenage aversion to sunscreen, or inconsistent application. They might think a quick swipe of lip balm with SPF is enough, but it often isn’t.

Recognizing a Severe Lip Sunburn

A mild sunburn is uncomfortable, but a severe lip sunburn can be excruciating and lead to long-term damage. It’s crucial to recognize the signs early.

Look for these symptoms:

Intense redness and swelling: More than just a slight pinkness.
Blisters: A clear sign of a second-degree burn.
Severe pain: Making it difficult to eat or talk.
Crusting and peeling: Indicating significant skin damage.
Fever or chills: In rare cases, a severe sunburn can lead to systemic symptoms.

If you notice any of these signs, it’s essential to take action immediately.

Sunscreen Savvy: Choosing the Right Protection

Not all sunscreens are created equal. For sensitive lips, especially those prone to sunburn, you need a specific type of protection.

Mineral Sunscreens: Look for sunscreens containing zinc oxide or titanium dioxide. These minerals create a physical barrier against the sun, rather than being absorbed into the skin. They are generally less irritating than chemical sunscreens.
High SPF: Don’t settle for anything less than SPF 30. SPF 50 or higher is even better, especially at high altitudes.
Broad Spectrum: Ensure the sunscreen protects against both UVA and UVB rays.
Water Resistance: Choose a water-resistant formula, especially if your teen is active or participating in water sports.
Lip-Specific Formulas: Opt for lip balms or sticks specifically designed for sun protection. These are often formulated with moisturizing ingredients to prevent dryness and cracking.

Specific Product Recommendations (Available in Taos):

Badger Balm SPF 30 Unscented Lip Balm: A readily available mineral sunscreen lip balm.
Thinkbaby SPF 30 Sunscreen Stick: While marketed for babies, this stick is gentle and effective for sensitive skin.
Blue Lizard Australian Sunscreen - Sensitive: A mineral sunscreen that is available at most pharmacies.

Pitfalls to Avoid:

Expired Sunscreen: Sunscreen loses its effectiveness over time. Check the expiration date and discard any expired products.
Insufficient Application: Apply sunscreen liberally and reapply every two hours, or more frequently if swimming or sweating.
Ignoring the Edges: Don’t forget to apply sunscreen to the edges of the lips, where they are most vulnerable.
Relying on Makeup: While some lipsticks and glosses contain SPF, they often don’t provide adequate protection.

Local Remedies: Soothing Burns with Nature’s Help

If your teen does get a lip sunburn, quick action is crucial to minimize damage and promote healing. Taos offers some unique, locally-sourced remedies that can provide relief.

Aloe Vera: Aloe vera is a well-known remedy for sunburns. The gel from the aloe vera plant has cooling and anti-inflammatory properties. You can find aloe vera plants at local nurseries like Taos Herbs. Apply the gel directly to the burned lips several times a day.
Calendula: Calendula is another herb with soothing and healing properties. You can find calendula-infused creams or oils at natural health stores in Taos. Apply gently to the burned area.
Honey: Raw, local honey has antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties. Apply a thin layer of honey to the burned lips to promote healing. Be sure to use raw honey, as processed honey may not have the same benefits.
Cool Compresses: Apply cool, damp compresses to the lips for 10-15 minutes at a time to reduce inflammation and pain.

Step-by-Step Treatment:

Cool Down: Immediately apply a cool compress to the burned lips.
Hydrate: Encourage your teen to drink plenty of water to stay hydrated.
Apply Aloe Vera: Apply a generous layer of aloe vera gel to the burned area.
Moisturize: Use a gentle, fragrance-free moisturizer to keep the lips hydrated.
Avoid Irritants: Avoid using harsh soaps, scrubs, or makeup on the burned lips.
Protect from Further Sun Exposure: Keep the lips covered with a hat or scarf when outdoors.

When to Seek Medical Attention:

Most lip sunburns can be treated at home. However, if your teen experiences any of the following symptoms, seek medical attention:

Severe blistering
Signs of infection (pus, redness, swelling)
Fever or chills
Severe pain that is not relieved by home remedies

Prevention is Key: Educating Your Teen

The most effective way to prevent severe lip sunburns is to educate your teen about the risks and encourage them to adopt sun-safe habits.

Explain the Dangers: Talk to your teen about the dangers of sun exposure, including skin cancer and premature aging.
Make Sunscreen a Habit: Encourage your teen to apply sunscreen every day, even on cloudy days.
Lead by Example: Show your teen that you prioritize sun safety by wearing sunscreen yourself.
Offer Incentives: Consider offering incentives for consistent sunscreen use, such as a small reward or a fun outing.
Peer Pressure: Encourage your teen to talk to their friends about sun safety and to support each other in making healthy choices.

Living in Taos means embracing the outdoors, but it also means respecting the power of the sun. By understanding the risks, choosing the right sunscreen, and adopting sun-safe habits, you can help your teen protect their lips and enjoy the beauty of New Mexico without the pain and long-term consequences of severe sunburns. Remember, a little prevention goes a long way in preserving their health and well-being.