With record-setting temperatures afflicting many places this summer, you have probably heard plenty of reminders about how important it is to protect yourself from sunburns. Sadly, though, many people seem to forget about their lips. Why is it so important to protect your lips from the sun, and how can you do so? Read this blog post to find out.
The Importance of Protecting Your Lips
Just like the skin on the rest of your body, your lips are vulnerable to burns, premature signs of aging, and even cancer. In fact, because the skin on your lips is thinner and more delicate than the surrounding skin, it is even more susceptible to problems. The bottom lip is especially likely to suffer because of the angle at which the sun hits it.
How to Protect Your Lips from the Sun
It is not difficult or expensive to protect your lips from the sun. Here are some practical steps that you can take:
Use SPF Lip Balm
Regular sunscreen can make your lips feel dry and irritated, so it is best not to use it on such a sensitive area. Instead, use a lip balm with SPF. It would be best to choose a product that features broad spectrum SPF 30 (rather than SPF 15) so you can enjoy the most thorough protection possible against the sun’s UVA and UVB rays.
Reapply Your SPF
It is common for people to apply SPF before they leave their house. However, they often forget to reapply it at appropriate intervals. Regular sunscreen should be reapplied approximately every two hours (more often if you are sweating a lot or swimming). SPF lip balm may need to be reapplied every hour. Try setting a reminder on your phone so you stay protected all day long.
Wear a Hat
A hat provides an easy and fashionable way to cast shade on your face and lower your risk of skin damage. Try to find one with a SPF of 50 or greater. Many sunhats and baseball caps work well for sun protection.
Stay Inside During the Hottest Part of the Day
Radiation from the sun tends to be greatest during the middle portion of the day, from late in the morning until around 4 P.M. or so. If possible, try to stay indoors during that period. If you choose to go out, it would be wise to spend most of your time in the shade.
Your lips are a valuable part of your smile! Do all you can to protect them from the sun’s harsh rays.
Meet the Practice
The skilled practitioners at Northborough Dental Associates are proud to provide general oral health services for our community. If you need to be screened for oral cancer, or you have other concerns about your smile’s well-being, we are prepared to serve you. Get in touch with our friendly team at 508-571-0358.