**Taos Toxins: Altitude Hiding Sunscreen Youth Harm?**
By Franklin Everett ShawThe desert sun feels different here. It’s not just the heat; it’s the intensity, the way it seems to bore right through you. And up here in Taos, New Mexico, nestled high in the Sangre de Cristo Mountains, that sun, combined with the thin air, creates a unique challenge for your skin. You might diligently apply sunscreen, thinking you’re protected, but the reality is, you’re likely still aging faster than you would at sea level. This isn’t fear-mongering; it’s science, and it’s something every Taos resident needs to understand to protect their skin.
The problem isn’t just the sun; it’s the altitude. At over 7,000 feet, the atmosphere filters less UV radiation. This means you’re exposed to a significantly higher dose of both UVA and UVB rays, even on cloudy days. UVA rays penetrate deep into the skin, damaging collagen and elastin, the proteins that keep your skin firm and youthful. UVB rays are responsible for sunburn, but they also contribute to skin aging and increase the risk of skin cancer.
Think of it this way: for every 1,000 feet you ascend, UV radiation increases by approximately 4-5%. That means in Taos, you’re getting roughly 30% more UV exposure than someone at sea level. That’s a huge difference.
But it’s not just the increased UV. The dry air at high altitude dehydrates your skin, making it more vulnerable to sun damage. Dehydrated skin is less able to repair itself, accelerating the aging process. This combination of intense sun and dry air creates what I call “Taos Toxins” – environmental factors that actively work against your skin’s health.
So, what can you do? The answer isn’t just “wear sunscreen.” It’s about understanding how to wear sunscreen effectively in this unique environment, choosing the right sunscreen, and adopting complementary protective measures.
First, let’s talk sunscreen application. Most people don’t apply enough. The general recommendation is about one ounce (a shot glass full) for your entire body, and a nickel-sized dollop for your face. Reapply every two hours, or more frequently if you’re sweating or swimming. This is crucial in Taos, where the sun’s intensity demands constant vigilance.
A common mistake I see in Taos is people applying sunscreen only in the morning. The sun is strongest between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m., so reapplication throughout the day is non-negotiable. Keep a travel-sized sunscreen in your car, your purse, or your backpack, and make it a habit to reapply every couple of hours. Set a timer on your phone if you need to.
Another mistake is relying solely on the SPF number. SPF measures protection against UVB rays, but it doesn’t tell you anything about UVA protection. Look for “broad spectrum” sunscreens, which protect against both UVA and UVB rays.
Now, let’s talk about the type of sunscreen. In Taos, I strongly recommend mineral-based sunscreens containing zinc oxide and/or titanium dioxide. These ingredients are physical blockers, meaning they sit on top of the skin and reflect UV rays. They’re also generally considered safer and more environmentally friendly than chemical sunscreens, which absorb UV rays.
You can find excellent mineral sunscreens at the Taos Food Co-op, Cid’s Market, and even the local Walgreens. Look for brands like EltaMD, Blue Lizard, or Thinksport. These are readily available and offer excellent broad-spectrum protection. Don’t skimp on price; invest in a good quality sunscreen.
But sunscreen alone isn’t enough. You need to think about complementary protective measures. Clothing is your first line of defense. Wear wide-brimmed hats to shield your face and neck. Sunglasses are essential to protect your eyes and the delicate skin around them. Consider wearing long sleeves and pants, especially during peak sun hours. Look for clothing with a UPF (Ultraviolet Protection Factor) rating for even better protection.
Lifestyle adjustments are also important. Stay hydrated. Drink plenty of water throughout the day to combat the dry air. Eat a diet rich in antioxidants, which can help protect your skin from damage. Consider taking a daily antioxidant supplement, such as vitamin C or vitamin E.
Avoid tanning beds. This should be obvious, but it’s worth repeating. Tanning beds emit harmful UV radiation that significantly increases your risk of skin cancer and premature aging.
Finally, be aware of your surroundings. The sun reflects off snow, water, and sand, increasing your UV exposure. If you’re skiing in Taos Ski Valley, or spending time near the Rio Grande, take extra precautions.
Let’s consider a real-world scenario. Imagine you’re spending the day hiking in the Taos Gorge. You apply sunscreen in the morning, but you forget to reapply. You’re wearing a t-shirt and shorts, and you don’t have a hat. By the end of the day, you’re sunburned and your skin feels dry and tight. This is a recipe for accelerated aging.
Instead, imagine this: You apply a generous amount of mineral sunscreen before you leave the house. You pack a travel-sized sunscreen in your backpack and set a timer on your phone to remind you to reapply every two hours. You wear a wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses. You wear a lightweight, long-sleeved shirt and pants. You drink plenty of water throughout the day. You’re still enjoying the same hike, but you’re protecting your skin from the “Taos Toxins.”
The key takeaway is this: protecting your skin in Taos requires a proactive and multi-faceted approach. It’s not enough to just slap on some sunscreen and hope for the best. You need to understand the unique challenges of this environment and take steps to mitigate them. By following these tips, you can enjoy the beauty of Taos without sacrificing the health and youthfulness of your skin. Don’t let the “Taos Toxins” win. Take control and protect your skin.