Taos Teens: Altitude Sun, Hidden Lip Damage?
By Franklin Everett ShawThe biting wind whips across your face, the sun reflecting intensely off the snow-dusted peaks of the Sangre de Cristo Mountains. You’re enjoying a perfect Taos day, but are your lips? The high altitude and intense sun in Taos, New Mexico, create a perfect storm for sun-induced lip damage, especially for our kids and teens. It’s more than just chapped lips; it’s a real health risk that demands attention.
The sun in Taos isn’t the same as the sun at sea level. At 7,000 feet, the atmosphere is thinner, filtering less UV radiation. This means you’re exposed to significantly higher levels of harmful rays, even on cloudy days. This increased UV exposure is a major contributor to sun-induced lip damage, leading to painful sunburns, premature aging, and even increasing the risk of skin cancer.
So, what exactly is sun-induced lip damage? It’s not just dryness. It encompasses a range of conditions, from mild chapping and peeling to severe sunburn, blistering, and even actinic cheilitis – a precancerous condition. The lips, lacking melanin (the pigment that protects skin from the sun), are particularly vulnerable.
Prevention is paramount. The cornerstone of lip protection is a high-quality SPF lip balm. But not just any lip balm will do. Look for broad-spectrum protection, meaning it shields against both UVA and UVB rays. Aim for an SPF of 30 or higher.
Fortunately, finding the right lip balm in Taos is easy. Pharmacies like Walgreens and Smith’s Marketplace on Paseo del Pueblo Sur carry a variety of suitable options.
Here are a few recommended brands readily available in Taos:
Neutrogena Norwegian Formula Lip Moisturizer SPF 15: While the SPF is slightly lower than our ideal, it’s a readily available and affordable option for everyday use, especially when reapplied frequently.
Aquaphor Lip Repair + Protect SPF 30: This is a great choice for its moisturizing properties and higher SPF. It’s often found near the pharmacy section in Smith’s.
Sun Bum SPF 30 Sunscreen Lip Balm: Known for its pleasant flavors and broad-spectrum protection, Sun Bum is a popular choice, often available at local surf shops and some pharmacies.
Don’t just apply lip balm once in the morning. Reapply frequently, especially before and after outdoor activities, eating, or drinking. Make it a habit, just like brushing your teeth.
Here’s a practical tip: keep a lip balm in multiple locations – in your car, backpack, purse, and by the front door. This increases the chances of remembering to apply it throughout the day.
One common mistake is thinking that lip balm with SPF is only necessary during the summer. The sun’s rays are strong year-round in Taos, even in winter when the sun reflects off the snow, intensifying exposure.
Another pitfall is using expired lip balm. The SPF in sunscreen products degrades over time, so check the expiration date and replace it accordingly.
What if the damage is already done? If you or your teen has already experienced sun-induced lip damage, prompt treatment is crucial.
For mild sunburn, apply a cool compress and a soothing lip balm with ingredients like aloe vera or vitamin E. Avoid picking at peeling skin, as this can lead to infection.
For more severe sunburn with blistering, consult a doctor or dermatologist. They may recommend a topical steroid cream to reduce inflammation and promote healing.
Actinic cheilitis requires medical attention. A dermatologist can diagnose the condition and recommend appropriate treatment, which may include cryotherapy (freezing) or topical medications.
Integrating sun protection into daily routines is key. Make it a family affair. Talk to your teens about the importance of lip protection and lead by example.
Consider these strategies:
Morning Routine: Include lip balm application as part of the morning routine, right after brushing teeth.
School/Activity Bags: Ensure your teen has a lip balm with SPF in their backpack or sports bag.
Car Reminders: Keep a lip balm in the car and make it a rule to apply it before starting the engine.
Family Outings: Pack extra lip balm for family hikes, ski trips, or other outdoor activities.
Let’s talk about a real-world scenario. Imagine your teen, Maria, is on the Taos High School soccer team. She spends hours practicing outdoors, often without remembering to reapply lip balm. Her lips become dry, cracked, and sunburned.
The solution? Maria’s parents can help her establish a routine. They can provide her with a Sun Bum lip balm in her soccer bag and remind her to reapply it during water breaks. They can also educate her about the long-term risks of sun exposure.
Another challenge is convincing teens that lip balm is “cool.” Marketing plays a role here. Opt for brands with appealing packaging and flavors. Encourage them to choose their own lip balm, making them more likely to use it.
Don’t underestimate the power of peer influence. If Maria sees her teammates using lip balm, she’s more likely to follow suit.
Sun-induced lip damage is a serious concern in Taos, but it’s also preventable. By understanding the risks, choosing the right products, and incorporating sun protection into daily routines, Taos parents and teens can keep their lips healthy and protected, allowing them to fully enjoy the beauty of Northern New Mexico. Remember, a little prevention goes a long way in safeguarding against the harsh Taos sun.