We all know how important it is to protect ourselves from the sun, but it’s easy to forget that our lips need protection too. Sunburn doesn’t just hurt—it can increase the risk of serious conditions like skin cancer.
Our lips are one of the most sensitive parts of our body, yet many people overlook the need to protect them. While some make sure to use quality lip care products, such as lip balms with sun protection, others neglect this crucial step, leaving their lips vulnerable.
Read on to learn about sunburned lips, why they’re so sensitive, and how you can keep them safe from the sun.
Why Are Lips So Prone to Sunburn?
Lips are especially sensitive to the sun’s UV rays because they have a thin layer of skin and very little melanin—the pigment that helps protect against UV damage. Since your lips are always exposed when you’re outside, they are one of the most vulnerable parts of your body. Applying a protective lip balm before heading out can shield your lips from harmful UV rays.
Symptoms of Sunburned Lips
You might not notice sunburned lips immediately, as the effects of sun exposure can take up to 24 hours to appear. Common symptoms include:
- Redness
- Swelling
- Tenderness
- Blisters filled with fluid
Typically, sunburn lasts 3-5 days, but more severe cases can take longer to heal, and you may even need to consult a doctor.
How to Prevent Sunburned Lips
There’s no safe way to tan—tanning is just your body’s response to sun damage. To protect yourself, try to avoid direct sunlight between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. If you need to be outside during these peak hours, use sunscreen on your face, SPF moisturizer on exposed skin, and a sun-protective lip balm.
When choosing a lip balm, look for products with ingredients like cocoa butter, shea butter, manuka honey, lavender essence, zinc oxide, Vitamin E, and broad-spectrum CBD. Apply a generous layer of lip balm at least 30 minutes before sun exposure and reapply after eating or drinking.
If your lips do get sunburned, avoid sun exposure while they heal and stay hydrated. Drink plenty of water, as burned skin can draw moisture from your body, leading to dehydration. Sports drinks can also help keep you hydrated.
Taking these simple precautions can help keep your lips soft, healthy, and protected from the sun!
