Taos Trails: Altitude Sun Burning Lips Faster?
By Franklin Everett ShawThe sun feels amazing on your skin, especially after a long winter. But that golden glow can quickly turn into a painful burn, especially on your lips. And if you’re hitting the trails around Taos, New Mexico, you’re facing a double whammy: high altitude and intense sun. Don’t let sunburnt lips ruin your hike. This guide will give you the knowledge to protect your pout and treat it right if the sun gets the upper hand.
Hiking in Taos presents unique challenges. The altitude, often exceeding 7,000 feet, means the atmosphere is thinner. This thinner atmosphere filters less UV radiation, leading to a higher risk of sunburn, even on cloudy days.
Your lips are particularly vulnerable. They lack melanin, the pigment that protects your skin from the sun’s harmful rays. This makes them incredibly susceptible to burning, cracking, and peeling.
Prevention is always better than cure. So, let’s dive into how to shield your lips from the Taos sun.
First, choose the right lip balm. Look for a lip balm with a Sun Protection Factor (SPF) of 30 or higher. It should also be broad-spectrum, meaning it protects against both UVA and UVB rays.
Specifically, consider these readily available options in Taos:
Badger Balm SPF 30 Clear Zinc Sunscreen Lip Balm: This balm uses zinc oxide for sun protection, a mineral sunscreen that’s gentle on sensitive skin. You can find it at natural food stores like Cid’s Food Market.
Sun Bum SPF 30 Sunscreen Lip Balm: A popular choice known for its moisturizing properties and pleasant flavors. Check out local pharmacies like Walgreens or Smith’s.
Neutrogena Norwegian Formula Lip Moisturizer SPF 15: While technically SPF 15, it’s better than nothing and readily available at most drugstores in Taos. Reapply frequently.
Don’t just buy it; use it correctly. Apply lip balm liberally and frequently. Reapply at least every two hours, or more often if you’re sweating or drinking.
Think of it like this: every time you reapply sunscreen to your face, reapply to your lips too. Don’t forget to apply before you even start your hike.
Consider the time of day. The sun’s rays are strongest between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. If possible, plan your hikes for earlier or later in the day to minimize sun exposure.
Seek shade whenever possible. Take breaks under trees or rock overhangs to give your lips a rest from the sun.
Wear a wide-brimmed hat. While it won’t directly shield your lips, it will reduce the overall amount of sun exposure to your face.
Even with the best precautions, sunburns can happen. So, what do you do if your lips start to feel tight, dry, and painful?
First, get out of the sun. Find a shady spot and stay there.
Apply a cool compress. A damp cloth can help soothe the burning sensation.
Hydrate, hydrate, hydrate. Drink plenty of water to help your body heal.
Avoid picking or peeling your lips. This can lead to infection and scarring.
Now, let’s talk about natural remedies. Taos is known for its holistic approach to health, and there are several natural options for soothing sunburnt lips.
Aloe vera: This is a classic remedy for sunburns. Apply pure aloe vera gel to your lips to help cool and heal the skin. You can find aloe vera plants or gel at many local stores.
Coconut oil: This is a natural moisturizer that can help soothe and protect sunburnt lips. Apply a thin layer of coconut oil to your lips several times a day.
Honey: Honey has antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties. Apply a thin layer of honey to your lips to help heal the burn and prevent infection.
If your sunburn is severe, seek professional medical advice. A dermatologist can prescribe stronger treatments, such as topical corticosteroids, to reduce inflammation and pain.
Dr. Emily Carter, a dermatologist practicing in Taos, emphasizes the importance of early intervention. “If you notice your lips are starting to burn, don’t wait. Apply a cool compress and a moisturizing balm immediately. The sooner you act, the less severe the burn will be.”
Common mistakes to avoid:
Using expired lip balm: Sunscreen ingredients degrade over time, making them less effective. Check the expiration date on your lip balm and replace it if it’s expired.
Applying lip balm only once: One application is not enough. Reapply frequently, especially after eating, drinking, or sweating.
Using flavored lip balm: Flavored lip balms can attract you to lick your lips more often, which can dry them out and make them more susceptible to sunburn.
Ignoring the signs of sunburn: Don’t wait until your lips are severely burned to take action. Pay attention to your body and take steps to protect your lips at the first sign of burning.
Hiking the Taos trails is an incredible experience. Don’t let sunburnt lips ruin your adventure. By taking the necessary precautions and knowing how to treat a burn if it happens, you can enjoy the beauty of New Mexico without the pain. Remember to choose the right lip balm, apply it liberally and frequently, and seek shade whenever possible. And if you do get burned, act quickly with cool compresses, hydration, and natural remedies. Your lips will thank you.