Taos Trails: Altitude Sun Cracking Lip Lasers?

By Franklin Everett Shaw

January 10, 2026

The wind whips through the canyons of Taos, carrying with it the scent of sage and the sting of dry air. The sun, a relentless presence at 7,000 feet, beats down with an intensity that can leave even the most seasoned hiker feeling parched and… well, chapped. Forget your Instagram filters; the real filter you need in Taos is a heavy-duty lip balm.

This isn’t your average drugstore lip care routine. We’re talking about a battle against the elements, a fight for moisture in a land where water is precious. This is your survival guide to conquering chapped lips in the high desert of Taos, New Mexico.

The problem in Taos isn’t just dry air; it’s a triple threat. High altitude means thinner air, leading to faster dehydration. The intense sun exposure, amplified by the altitude, further dries and damages the delicate skin on your lips. And finally, the dry desert winds act like a constant, abrasive exfoliant, stripping away any remaining moisture.

So, what’s a hiker to do?

First, let’s talk prevention. This is where you win the war before it even begins.

• SPF is your BFF: Forget SPF 15. You need a lip balm with at least SPF 30, and preferably higher. Look for broad-spectrum protection to shield against both UVA and UVB rays. Reapply religiously, every two hours, or more often if you’re sweating or drinking.

  • Example: Consider Badger Balm SPF 30 Unscented Lip Balm. It’s readily available online and at many outdoor retailers. It uses zinc oxide for sun protection, a mineral sunscreen that’s generally considered safer than chemical sunscreens.

• Hydration, Hydration, Hydration: You’ve heard it before, but it’s even more critical in Taos. Drink before you feel thirsty. Carry a hydration pack or water bottles and sip consistently throughout your hike.

  • Pro Tip: Add electrolytes to your water. This helps your body absorb the water more effectively. Nuun tablets are a great option.

• Nighttime is Repair Time: Before bed, slather on a thick layer of a moisturizing lip balm. Look for ingredients like shea butter, cocoa butter, or lanolin. This allows your lips to recover overnight.

  • Example: Lanolips 101 Ointment Multipurpose Superbalm is a cult favorite for a reason. It’s pure lanolin, which is incredibly moisturizing and helps to heal cracked skin.

But what if the damage is already done? You’re halfway up Wheeler Peak, and your lips feel like sandpaper. Don’t despair!

Here’s your emergency treatment plan:

• Exfoliate Gently: Resist the urge to pick at the dry skin. Instead, gently exfoliate with a soft toothbrush or a damp washcloth. This removes the dead skin cells and allows your lip balm to penetrate more effectively.

  • Caution: Be extremely gentle. Over-exfoliating can make the problem worse.

• Honey, I Healed the Lips: Raw honey is a natural humectant, meaning it draws moisture from the air into your skin. It also has antibacterial properties, which can help prevent infection in cracked lips. Apply a thin layer of raw honey to your lips and let it sit for 15-20 minutes before rinsing off.

  • Taos Specific: Look for locally sourced honey from Taos Bee Company. Supporting local businesses and getting a high-quality product is a win-win.

• DIY Beeswax Balm: Beeswax is a natural emollient, meaning it creates a protective barrier on your skin, preventing moisture loss. You can make your own lip balm using beeswax, coconut oil, and shea butter.

  • Recipe: Melt equal parts beeswax, coconut oil, and shea butter in a double boiler. Pour into small containers and let cool.

• Avoid Irritants: Certain ingredients can actually make chapped lips worse. Avoid lip balms with menthol, camphor, or eucalyptus, as these can be drying. Also, be mindful of flavored lip balms, as the artificial flavors can sometimes irritate sensitive skin.

  • Common Mistake: Thinking that the tingling sensation from menthol is a sign that the lip balm is working. It’s not; it’s just irritating your lips.

• Humidify: If you’re staying in a hotel or rental with dry air, use a humidifier. This adds moisture to the air, which can help prevent your lips from drying out.

  • Practical Tip: If you don’t have a humidifier, you can place a bowl of water in your room. It’s not as effective, but it’s better than nothing.

Let’s address some common challenges and pitfalls:

• Challenge: Forgetting to reapply lip balm.

  • Solution: Set a timer on your phone to remind you to reapply every two hours. Keep a lip balm in your pocket, backpack, and car so you always have one handy.

• Challenge: Licking your lips.

  • Solution: This is a tough habit to break, but it’s crucial. Licking your lips actually dries them out more. Try to be mindful of when you’re doing it and consciously stop yourself. Carry a water bottle and sip frequently to keep your lips moist.

• Challenge: Allergic reactions to lip balm ingredients.

  • Solution: If you experience any redness, itching, or swelling after using a lip balm, discontinue use immediately. Look for hypoallergenic lip balms with minimal ingredients.

• Challenge: Severely cracked and bleeding lips.

  • Solution: If your lips are severely cracked and bleeding, see a doctor or dermatologist. They may recommend a prescription ointment or cream to help heal the skin.

Finally, remember that prevention is key. By taking proactive steps to protect your lips, you can enjoy your hiking adventures in Taos without the discomfort of chapped lips. So, pack your SPF 30+ lip balm, stay hydrated, and get ready to explore the beauty of the Land of Enchantment. Your lips will thank you.