Everyone knows they’re supposed to wear sunscreen outside. Makeup products are packed with SPF, and people are slowly becoming more aware of the importance of blue light protection. What about your lips, though? Do you need SPF on your lips, or is it another overhyped idea?
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Do You Need SPF On Your Lips?
Yes, you need to invest in SPF for your lips. The skin on your lips is known for being more delicate than the rest of your body, making it more susceptible to damage. You can wind up with sunburns or worse. According to the Cleveland Clinic, fair-skinned men are more likely than anyone to get cancer on their lips.
Why You Need SPF Lip Products
Your lips are rarely covered when you protect yourself from the sun. They get more sunlight than most other body parts because everyone puts sunscreen everywhere else. The harsh UV rays can cause severe damage to your lips.
Sunburns
One of the most common side effects of not protecting your lips is sunburn. Like the rest of your body, your lips can get sunburnt. They may not turn beet red, but they’ll get darker, burn, and become irritated. Your lips may peel like chapped lips. Severe sunburns can result in swelling and blisters.
Delicate Skin
The skin on your lips is more delicate than the skin on the rest of your body. It also lacks protective features, meaning it’s more susceptible to damage than other body areas. Your lips may get sunburnt or show signs of premature aging before anywhere else because the skin is so thin. This study takes a deep dive into the delicate skin of your lips.
Premature Aging
Lips can show signs of premature aging like the rest of your body. However, aging shows up a tiny bit differently on your lips. It’s common for lips to lose volume as you age. You may notice they aren’t as plump as they used to be. Lips can also develop small lines resembling vertical wrinkles or fine lines. Using an SPF on your lips can help prevent the signs of premature aging.
No Melanocytes
The skin has meanocytes that help the body produce melanin. Melanin gives skin pigment, such as a tan or sun spots. However, it also helps protect the skin from the sun. Thin lip skin doesn’t have the same protective melanocytes you find in other body areas.
Water Content
Lips don’t have the same protective layer that keeps water locked inside for hydration. They also have a lower water content than other areas, such as the cheeks. Saliva is their main source of hydration. Because of that, the lips can easily become dehydrated and chapped, making them more susceptible to damage.
No Oil Glands
Our skin naturally produces oil, which is packed with antioxidants to help protect the skin. The lips, on the other hand, don’t have oil glands. This results in them lacking moisture and additional protection. SPF and lip balm or products can help give them the protection they need.
Skin Cancer
Most people don’t realize it’s possible to get skin cancer on the lips. You can get small tumors on the lips that require treatment, and they’re hard to treat. The best weapon against cancer is preventing it before it happens.
Can You Put Sunscreen On Your Lips?
Most people slather sunscreen all over their face and body, so it makes sense to wonder if you can simply put a swipe across your lips to protect them. While you can, it’s not the best idea. Regular sunscreen is known for being toxic. People accidentally ingest anything they put on their lips. We also subconsciously lick our lips throughout the day, which will taste disgusting. Instead, invest in sunscreen products for your lips.
Our Picks
SPF 15 Coconut Lip Balm
This lip balm, made in Florida, doesn’t use ingredients like petroleum. Instead, Florida Glow utilizes extra virgin olive oil, beeswax, and aloe vera to protect and nourish the lips while providing protection from harsh UV rays. It doesn’t leave a gross film on your lips and helps keep your pout kissably soft.
Why You’ll Love It
- Nourishing
- Softens lips
- SPF included
- Affordable
- Cruelty-free
Burt’s Bees SPF 30 Lip Balm (Island Getaway)
Three mineral sunscreen lip balms can help keep your lips protected for months. Names like Coco Loco, Beaches & Cream, and Tropic Like It’s Hot help you take summer vibes everywhere you go. The water-resistant formula is perfect for a day in the sun. Infused with shea butter, Burt’s Bees lip balms keep your lips hydrated while providing necessary protection.
Why You’ll Love It
- Made with reef-friendly ingredients
- Water-resistant
- Infused with almond oil and Vitamin E
- Nourishing and hydrating
Do You Need SPF On Your Lips
Yes, your lips need protection from harsh sun rays. The skin on your lips is delicate and prone to damage. You may suffer from premature aging, cancer, and sunburn. Using a lip balm or a product with SPF instead of regular sunscreen on your lips is best. Check out the rest of the site to learn more!
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