Taos Trails: Altitude Sun Burning Summer Lips?

By Franklin Everett Shaw

December 29, 2025

The sting of sunburn on your lips is a special kind of misery, especially when you’re trying to enjoy the stunning vistas and outdoor adventures that Taos, New Mexico, offers. But don’t let it ruin your trip! The high altitude and intense sun here demand a proactive approach to lip care. This isn’t just about aesthetics; it’s about preventing discomfort and potential long-term damage.

Let’s dive into how to keep your pout protected in this unique environment.

First, understand the Taos Factor. Taos sits at a lofty 6,969 feet above sea level. This altitude means the atmosphere is thinner, filtering less UV radiation. You’re closer to the sun, plain and simple. The sun’s intensity increases by approximately 4% for every 1,000 feet of elevation gained. That’s a significant jump compared to sea level.

Combine this with New Mexico’s dry climate, and you have a recipe for chapped, sunburnt lips. The dryness depletes your lips’ natural moisture barrier, making them even more vulnerable to UV damage.

Prevention is paramount. Your first line of defense is a high-quality SPF lip balm. But not just any lip balm will do. Look for these key features:

• Broad Spectrum Protection: This means the balm protects against both UVA and UVB rays. UVB rays are primarily responsible for sunburn, while UVA rays contribute to premature aging and skin cancer.
• SPF 30 or Higher: The Skin Cancer Foundation recommends an SPF of 30 or higher for adequate sun protection. Don’t skimp on this!
• Water Resistance: If you’re skiing, hiking, or engaging in any activity where you might sweat or get your face wet, water resistance is crucial. Reapply frequently, especially after eating or drinking.
• Moisturizing Ingredients: Look for ingredients like shea butter, cocoa butter, beeswax, or vitamin E to keep your lips hydrated. Avoid balms with drying ingredients like menthol or camphor, especially for daily use.

Where to find the right stuff in Taos? Check these local spots:

• Cid’s Food Market: This local grocery store often carries a selection of natural and organic lip balms with SPF. Look for brands like Badger Balm or Alba Botanica.
• Taos Pharmacy: Your standard pharmacy will have a range of options, including brands like ChapStick (look for their SPF versions) and Blistex.
• Op.Cit. Books: Surprisingly, this bookstore sometimes carries locally made lip balms with natural ingredients and SPF. It’s worth a look for a unique souvenir that also protects your lips.
• Taos Mountain Outfitters: If you’re heading up to the ski slopes, this is a good place to find high-performance lip balms designed for extreme conditions.

Don’t just apply it once in the morning. Reapply your SPF lip balm religiously throughout the day, especially after eating, drinking, or any activity that might rub it off. Think every two hours, or even more frequently if you’re sweating or swimming.

Hydration is your internal defense. The dry air in Taos will suck the moisture right out of you. Drink plenty of water throughout the day to keep your lips hydrated from the inside out. Carry a reusable water bottle and sip on it constantly.

Consider adding electrolytes to your water, especially if you’re active. Electrolytes help your body retain fluids, combating dehydration. You can find electrolyte tablets or powders at most grocery stores and pharmacies in Taos.

What if you still get burned? Despite your best efforts, sunburn can happen. Here’s how to treat it:

• Cool Compress: Apply a cool, damp cloth to your lips for 10-15 minutes several times a day. This will help reduce inflammation and pain.
• Aloe Vera: Pure aloe vera gel is a fantastic soothing remedy. You can find it at most pharmacies and grocery stores. Make sure it’s pure aloe vera, without added fragrances or alcohol, which can further irritate the skin.
• Honey: Raw honey has antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties. Apply a thin layer to your lips and let it sit for 15-20 minutes before rinsing off. Local honey from Taos is even better!
• Avoid Picking or Peeling: As tempting as it may be, don’t pick at the peeling skin. This can lead to infection and scarring. Let the skin heal naturally.
• Stay Out of the Sun: Give your lips a break from the sun until they’re fully healed. Wear a wide-brimmed hat and seek shade whenever possible.

Common mistakes to avoid:

• Using Expired Lip Balm: SPF degrades over time. Check the expiration date on your lip balm and replace it if it’s expired.
• Licking Your Lips: This might seem counterintuitive, but licking your lips actually dries them out more. Saliva contains enzymes that break down the skin’s natural oils.
• Using Flavored Lip Balm: Flavored lip balms can be tempting, but they often contain ingredients that can irritate sensitive skin. Stick to plain, fragrance-free options.
• Forgetting to Protect the Edges: Don’t just apply lip balm to the center of your lips. Make sure to cover the entire surface, including the edges, which are often the most vulnerable to sunburn.

Real-world scenario: Imagine you’re spending the day hiking to Williams Lake, a beautiful alpine lake near Taos Ski Valley. You’re at over 11,000 feet elevation, the sun is intense, and you’re sweating from the exertion. You apply your SPF 30 lip balm in the morning, but forget to reapply it throughout the day. By the time you get back to your car, your lips are burning and swollen.

The solution? Immediately apply a cool compress and aloe vera gel. Drink plenty of water and avoid any further sun exposure. Reapply aloe vera frequently throughout the evening and the next day. Learn from your mistake and pack your SPF lip balm in your backpack for future hikes, setting a reminder on your phone to reapply every two hours.

Don’t let sunburnt lips ruin your Taos experience. By understanding the unique challenges of this high-altitude environment and taking proactive steps to protect your lips, you can enjoy all that this beautiful region has to offer without the pain and discomfort of sunburn. Remember, prevention is key, and a little bit of planning can go a long way in keeping your lips healthy and happy.