For beach lovers, sunbathers and outdoor enthusiasts! Summer has arrived and it’s time to sunbathe. but before you do that Let’s talk about an important part of your summer beauty routine that is often overlooked: your lips! Yes, you heard it right. Lips are often the unsung heroes of our beauty routines. And it’s often forgotten when it comes to sun protection. While we apply sunscreen on the face and body. Our lips are not protected from the sun’s harmful UV rays. But don’t be afraid because we have some tips to prevent and treat sunburned lips.
Sunburned lips can seem like something that never happened to you. But that’s not the case. Many people don’t even know that their lips can get sunburned and mistake them for chapped lips. But there are differences between the two. Let’s see how to distinguish between chapped lips and sunburned lips.
Chapped lips vs sunburned lips
“Cracked lips are often the result of dehydration. severe weather or excessive licking of the lips Sunburned lips are often caused by unprotected exposure to the sun’s harmful UV rays. This can lead to pain, swelling and peeling,” said Dr. Sudheendra G Udbalker, Consultant Dermatologist, Fortis Hospital, Bengaluru.
Chapped lips are a common problem that occurs when lips are dry and dehydrated. This can be caused by exposure to cold or dry air. as well as certain medications and medical conditions. Chapped lips can also lead to a condition called cheilitis, which is an inflammation of the lips.
Sunburned lips, on the other hand, are caused by exposure to the sun’s UV rays. Its symptoms are red, swollen, and painful, while chapped lips can be treated with a moisturizing lip balm. But sunburned lips require more specific treatments to relieve symptoms.
How to prevent sunburned lips?
Preventing sunburned lips is the best way to avoid the discomfort and pain associated with this condition. Here are some tips to help prevent sunburned lips:
1. Use a lip balm with SPF.
How do you take care of your skin before sun exposure? Lips need SPF care, too. Look for a lip balm with an SPF of at least 15 and apply it all over your lips before going out. A study published in the Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology (AAD) found that lip balm with SPF significantly increased lip protection from UV rays compared to lip balm without SPF. Apply this balm every two hours or after swimming or sweating.
2. Wear a hat
A hat with a wide brim can help cover your face and protect your lips from the sun. Studies have shown that wearing a hat with a brim of at least 3 inches can significantly reduce the amount of UV rays reaching the face and lips.
3. Find shade
If possible, stay indoors during the hottest part of the day. This is usually between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m., as this is the best way to prevent all kinds of sun damage.
4. Avoid tanning beds.
Tanning beds also emit UV rays, which can damage your skin and increase your risk of skin cancer. According to a study in the AAD, using tanning beds increases your risk of developing skin cancer, including melanoma.
READ MORE: Khloe Kardashian Puts Skin Cancer Back In The Spotlight: Know About The Condition
How to treat sunburned lips?
If you end up with sunburnt lips There are some things you can do to ease the discomfort and promote healing. Here are some tips for treating sunburnt lips:
1. Cold compress
Applying a cold compress to your lips can help reduce inflammation, redness, and pain. A study published in the Journal of Clinical and Diagnostic Research found that cold compresses can help relieve pain and inflammation associated with various types of oral ulcers. including sunburnt lips
2. Drink lots of water.
Staying hydrated is essential for maintaining healthy skin and lips. Drinking lots of water can help reduce dryness and inflammation. and promotes healing. However, it is advisable to stay hydrated during the hot summer months. But your lips need moisture too.
3. Avoid picking at the lips.
Picking your lips can slow the healing process and increase your risk of infection. Constant picking and biting can lead to a condition known as cheilitis, an inflammation of the lips. AAD study found that lip picking can lead to a vicious cycle of inflammation and damage.
4. Use Aloe Vera
There is nothing more soothing and cooling than aloe vera gel. Aloe vera gel can help soothe inflamed skin and promote healing. Aloe vera gel is effective in treating various skin conditions. including burns, wounds and inflammation
5. Avoid lipstick or lip gloss.
Some lipsticks and lip glosses may contain ingredients such as pigments and certain waxes that can dry out or irritate your lips. If you are experiencing sunburn on your lips These products should be avoided until your lips have healed.
