You may be planning to soak up some rays by the pool or beach this summer. If so, you’ll know that you must apply sunscreen for the occasion. After all, you don’t want your skin to burn to a crisp. However, you may be surprised to learn that you should also protect your lips from the sun.
Below is a summary of lip sun protection — why it’s needed and how to accomplish it. Read on to learn the role healthy lips play in a healthy mouth.
Wait, Lips Need Sun Protection?
Yes, they sure do. Giving your lips too much sun can increase your risk of sunburn and oral or skin cancer.
You might not think lips can get sunburned, but they really can. Those that do usually become redder than normal, tender, swollen, or develop white blisters. Such symptoms can also make you reluctant to follow your oral hygiene routine. In that case, your smile would be at risk.
Oral cancer seriously threatens your body, including your oral health. Remember to visit your dentist regularly for oral cancer screenings, as it can be life-threatening if not diagnosed and treated early.
How to Protect Your Lips from Sunburn
You can support good oral health by shielding your lips from the sun’s rays.
The best way to carry out this task is with a sun-blocking lip balm. Find one that goes up to SPF 30, as that level filters out 97% of type B ultraviolet rays. Exfoliate your lips to remove chapped, dry skin as well.
For extra protection, try to keep your lips out of direct sunlight. The hours when sunlight is most intense range from 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. or 11:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. during daylight savings time. If necessary, you could also wear a wide-brimmed hat during the day.
How to Treat Sunburnt Lips
Despite your best efforts, your lips may sometimes burn from the sun. When and if that happens, try these tips to relieve the pain:
- Dip a soft washcloth in ice water and rest it on your lips.
- Apply 100% aloe vera or another moisturizer to help the healing. (Avoid petroleum-based products.)
- Use over-the-counter anti-inflammatory medication.
Lips usually heal from sun damage in about three to five days. See your local doctor if they don’t get better in that time.
From now on, add your lips to your sunscreen application process when you head out for a summer tan. You’ll be glad that you did!
About the Practice
The Dental Group of Jefferson is based in Jefferson, OH. Their offices feature some of the top dental practitioners in Ohio. Led by Drs. Hammond and Pichler, their team uses the latest dental technology to provide patients with exceptional treatments and diagnoses. Such services span preventive, cosmetic, and restorative dentistry, even including emergency dental services. For more information or to book an appointment, they can be reached at their website or by phone at (440)-576-7040.