How to Avoid Sunburn in Higher Altitudes
So you’re headed to the mountains, looking forward to the beauty and the welcome relief of the cool, clear air of those higher altitudes. Sounds like a dream come true, doesn’t it? Take some time and do a little preparation so that dream doesn’t quickly turn into a painful sunburn nightmare.It’s so easy to think that sunburn only happens when it’s really hot. But, when you’re in the mountains, at a higher altitude, the ultraviolet rays (UV) can be at a dangerous level 10+ even when the temperature is not extreme. The thinner atmosphere provides less protection from the sun’s UV rays. It is thought that the UV radiation increases by about 4 percent for every 1000 foot increase in altitude. So your chances of getting severe sunburn increase as well. By the time you start to feel a little pain, it’s too late. You’re already beginning to burn. Obviously, this can ruin your vacation. Don’t let it happen to you.
Instructions
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Be aware
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Stop and think about protection from the sun. This is probably the most important step to consider to avoid sunburn at higher altitudes. If you’re new to the mountains you can so easily be lulled into complacency about the effects of the sun.
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Check the UV index forecast. Check an online weather site that allows you to choose your city or ZIP code and then view the skin protection category under the healthy living tab. You will get both the UV index forecast and the dry skin index, a nice little bonus since dry skin can also be a problem at higher elevations. See the link in Resources below.
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Stay indoors between 10 am and 4 pm, if possible.
Since indoor vacations are no fun, take these precautions
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Apply a sunscreen with a 30 SPF (sun protection factor) or higher, at least thirty minutes before you go outside. Don’t forget to apply to your face, especially your nose. Be careful not to get it in your eyes.
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Reapply this lotion often, according to recommended schedule, if you must be outside for long periods of time.
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Protect your lips with a good quality lip balm.
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Wear a hat. The ones with several inches of fabric hanging down are great to avoid sunburn on your neck.
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Wear loose fitting, tightly woven, light weight clothing including long sleeves and long pants. This will give protection from the sun and you’ll still be cool.
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Wear sunglasses. They should be labeled to show that 99-100 percent of UV radiation will be blocked.
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Tips & Warnings
Winter is also a dangerous time for sunburn in higher elevations. If there is snow on the ground, the reflection from the snow will intensify the effects of the sun.
Do not skip the sunglasses. They will protect your eyes. Bigger lenses give more protection.
