Heading out for a day of fun in the sun? You’ve probably packed your swimsuit, some snacks, sunglasses, and whatever else completes your day of activity and outdoors. If you’re outside a lot, you should always have some sunscreen on you to prevent painfully red skin and the potential dangers of sunburn. But what about your lips? Read on to see why this part of your body shouldn’t be forgotten and how to protect your lips from the sun.
First, Why Do Your Lips Need Sun Protection?
While your lips may not look like the rest of your skin, they are still vulnerable when the sun is out. Because your lips are susceptible to radiation, there is also a risk of skin cancer. Your lips often get overlooked when enjoying some fun in the sun, but neglecting them could lead to sun burn, cracking, dryness, and much worse.
Using Sunscreen on Your Lips
There are special products that you can use on your lips to protect them while avoiding the traditional white sunscreen. Moisturizing SPF lip balm is a great way to prevent sunburn and keep your lips moist. It is recommended that you reapply it every 2 hours to ensure that you’re getting maximum protection. Another easy way to keep your lips looking and feeling great is to make sure you’re drinking lots of water throughout the day!
How Much SPF Do Your Lips Need?
Most sun-protecting lip balms boast SPF 15, which filters around 93% of UVB rays. However, some lip balms even go up to SPF 30, which filters out about 97% of UVB rays according to the American Cancer Society. While 4% may not seem significant, it makes a huge difference when it comes to the amount of radiation your skin meets. That said, if you’re going to be out in full sun, like next to the pool or at a beach, it’s best to choose a lip balm with higher SPF.
Sunburned Lips? Here’s How to Treat Them
Did you forget your lip balm? You may experience redness, tenderness, swelling, or little white blisters – yikes! However, there is no need to worry. For some quick relief, you can dip a washcloth in ice water and rest it on your lips. You can also try applying 100% aloe vera or a different moisturizer (just avoid any product with petroleum). To help with the pain, take over-the-counter anti-inflammatory medication. If your sun burn doesn’t get better after 3 to 5 days, contact a professional.
Now that you know more about protecting lips, don’t let the sun rays get the best of you. Remember these tips to enjoy your daytime activities without putting your smile at risk!
Meet the Dentists
Dr. Dhiren Ahir combines expertise and passion for high quality dentistry to help his Denton patients stay healthy and happy. They provide thorough oral cancer screenings during routine checkups to detect early signs as soon as possible. For any questions, they can be reached through their website or by phone at (940) 514-0333.
