Most people know that using sunblock is an important step in sun protection. However, many give little thought to the importance of protecting lips from sun damage. In fact, due to their vulnerability, lips need specialized protection, even more so than many other parts of the body. Harmful ultraviolet rays, also known as UV rays, and common bad habits can increase sun damage to lips. Proper daily care can help to protect the lips from from cracking, chapping, sunburns and resulting discomfort.
General Recommended Daily Care of Lips and What to Look for in Sun Protection
- Apply a lip balm of at least SPF 15, with broad spectrum protection against UV rays.
- Use a waterproof SPF lip balm if participating in activities at the beach or poolside and reapply as directed.
Good Habits for Protecting Your Lips from Sun Damage
- Apply and reapply SPF lip balm during and after sun exposure. Like regular sunscreen, it is generally recommended that SPF lip balm be reapplied approximately every two hours.
- If you will be outside in high altitudes, get in the habit of using sun protection more frequently, as skin is more vulnerable to sun damage at higher altitudes. The sun is more intense at higher altitudes and can cause skin damage rapidly.
Avoid these Bad Habits and Incorrect Rationale for Protecting Your Lips from Sun Damage
- Licking lips: A common bad habit in an attempt to retain moisture is licking the lips. Instead of helping with the dryness, saliva actually intensifies sun exposure to the lips, potentially resulting in more sun damage.
- Wearing shiny and high gloss lipstick: These types of lipsticks oil the lips, intensifying and directing UV rays to the lips.
- "It's winter! I don't need to protect my lips from the sun!" Snow can reflect about 80 percent of sun rays and can result in skin damage. UV rays are powerful throughout the year, and UVA rays are at constant levels all year long.
- "I don't like to wear lipstick!" Even if lipstick is not your custom, colorless lip balms with SPF are available and should be used by men, women and children alike to avoid sun damage.
Keeping in mind these few precautions and developing good habits for skin care will help protect your lips from sun damage while enjoying your time in the sun.
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Brandy Pearce - As a seasoned traveler, dental professional, educator and jewelry designer, Brandy's articles are insightful, interesting, and full of ...
