Taos Teens: Altitude Sun Crashing Zinc Now?

By Franklin Everett Shaw

February 15, 2026

The sun in Taos, New Mexico, doesn’t play around. It’s not just a little warmth; it’s an intense, high-altitude radiation bath that can wreak havoc on your skin, especially for active teens spending hours outdoors. Ignoring this reality is a recipe for premature aging, painful sunburns, and increased skin cancer risk.

Taos’s unique environment demands a proactive approach to sun protection. We’re not talking about a casual dab of whatever’s on sale at the grocery store. We’re talking about a strategic defense plan, tailored to the specific challenges of this high-altitude, sun-drenched landscape.

Here’s how Taos teens can shield themselves from the sun’s harsh rays:

Zinc Oxide: Your First Line of Defense

Forget chemical sunscreens that absorb UV radiation. They often contain ingredients that can irritate sensitive skin and have questionable environmental impacts. Zinc oxide is a mineral sunscreen that creates a physical barrier, reflecting the sun’s rays away from your skin.

Why Zinc Oxide? It’s broad-spectrum, meaning it protects against both UVA and UVB rays. It’s also incredibly gentle, making it ideal for sensitive skin, and it’s environmentally friendly.
Product Recommendations in Taos: Head to Cid’s Food Market or Taos Pharmacy. Look for brands like Badger Balm, Thinkbaby (despite the name, it’s great for teens!), or Blue Lizard Australian Sunscreen. These are readily available and offer high percentages of zinc oxide (20% or higher is ideal).
Application is Key: Don’t skimp! Apply a thick, even layer at least 15 minutes before heading outside. Reapply every two hours, or more frequently if you’re sweating or swimming. Pay special attention to often-missed areas like your ears, the back of your neck, and the tops of your feet.

Timing is Everything: Dodge the Peak Hours

The sun’s intensity varies throughout the day. The hours between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. are the most dangerous, especially in Taos, where the altitude amplifies UV radiation.

Strategic Scheduling: If you’re planning a hike, bike ride, or any outdoor activity, aim for early mornings or late afternoons. The light is often better for photos then, too!
Embrace the Shade: Seek out shade whenever possible. Trees, umbrellas, and even buildings can provide valuable protection. If you’re at Kit Carson Park, take advantage of the shaded picnic areas.
Cloud Cover is Deceiving: Don’t be fooled by clouds. UV radiation can penetrate clouds, so you still need to protect your skin even on overcast days.

High-Altitude Sun Poisoning: Know the Signs

Sun poisoning is a severe sunburn that can cause a range of symptoms, including blistering, fever, chills, nausea, and dizziness. At high altitudes, sun poisoning can develop more quickly and be more severe.

Early Detection is Crucial: Pay attention to your skin. If you notice any redness, itching, or burning, get out of the sun immediately.
Hydration is Your Friend: Drink plenty of water. Dehydration can worsen the effects of sun poisoning.
Seek Medical Attention: If you experience any of the more severe symptoms, such as blistering, fever, or dizziness, seek medical attention immediately. Holy Cross Hospital in Taos is equipped to handle sun poisoning cases.
Unique High-Altitude Considerations: The thinner air at high altitude can make it harder for your body to cool down, increasing the risk of heatstroke, which can exacerbate sun poisoning symptoms. Be extra vigilant about staying hydrated and avoiding strenuous activity during the hottest part of the day.

Beyond Sunscreen: A Holistic Approach

Sunscreen is essential, but it’s not the only tool in your arsenal.

Protective Clothing: Wear long sleeves, pants, and a wide-brimmed hat whenever possible. Darker colors absorb more UV radiation than lighter colors.
Sunglasses are a Must: Protect your eyes from UV radiation with sunglasses that block 100% of UVA and UVB rays.
Lip Balm with SPF: Don’t forget your lips! Use a lip balm with an SPF of 30 or higher.
Dietary Considerations: While not a replacement for sunscreen, some studies suggest that consuming foods rich in antioxidants, like berries and leafy greens, may help protect your skin from sun damage.

Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them

Under-Application: Most people don’t apply enough sunscreen. Use at least one ounce (about a shot glass full) to cover your entire body.
Forgetting to Reapply: Sunscreen wears off over time, especially if you’re sweating or swimming. Reapply every two hours, or more frequently if needed.
Relying on Makeup with SPF: Makeup with SPF is not a substitute for sunscreen. It’s often applied too thinly and doesn’t provide adequate protection.
Ignoring the UV Index: Check the UV index before heading outside. The higher the UV index, the greater the risk of sun damage. You can find the UV index on most weather apps or websites.

Real-World Scenario: The Taos High School Soccer Team

Imagine the Taos High School soccer team practicing for hours under the intense Taos sun. Without proper sun protection, they’re at high risk of sunburn, sun poisoning, and long-term skin damage.

The Solution: The coach should mandate sunscreen application before every practice and game. He should also schedule practices for early mornings or late afternoons whenever possible. Players should wear hats and sunglasses during breaks and stay hydrated.
Product Recommendations: The team could bulk-purchase a zinc oxide sunscreen like Thinkbaby or Badger Balm to ensure everyone has access to adequate protection.
Education is Key: The coach should educate the players about the risks of sun exposure and the importance of sun protection.

The Long-Term Payoff

Protecting your skin from the sun is an investment in your future health. By adopting these strategies, Taos teens can enjoy the outdoors without risking long-term damage. It’s about being smart, proactive, and understanding the unique challenges of this beautiful, sun-drenched corner of New Mexico. Don’t let the sun dictate your life; take control and enjoy all that Taos has to offer, safely.