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HOW TO CARE FOR MILD SUNBURNT LIPS
Sunburnt lips are caused by unprotected exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun. Because lips have a much weaker protective moisture barrier than other parts of the body, they are more vulnerable to irritation and sunburn. Most people also neglect to protect their lips from the sun when outdoors, which exacerbates the risk. In this article we’ll discuss symptoms and ways to remedy mild sunburnt lips and how to prevent the harmful effects of UV radiation on the delicate lip area.
IDENTIFYING SUNBURNT LIPS: WHAT DOES IT LOOK LIKE?
Sunburnt lips may manifest as redness (a deeper red than the skin’s natural tone), discomfort or itching sensations, dryness, visible skin flakes and some peeling skin. You may also notice your lips are more sensitive to heat or spicy foods, or you may feel heat radiating from your lips. In more serious cases, blisters and can form.
It’s important to note that these symptoms can also be indicative of other skin concerns. If dark spots, blisters, or discomfort don't go away after a couple of weeks, speak to a healthcare professional.
HOW TO RELIEVE SUNBURNT LIPS
Just like any sunburn, the intensity can range from mild redness and dryness, to more serious cases that can cause discomfort or develop dark or unusual spots that require medical attention. If you’re experiencing mild sunburn on your lips, there are a few steps you can take to alleviate any discomfort and help the skin recover.
APPLY COLD WATER, ICE CUBE OR COOL COMPRESS
Apply a cold compress or an ice pack wrapped in a towel to your lips to help with irritation. You can also place a cold water-soaked cloth against your lips and leave for 5-10 minutes.
COMFORT THE SKIN WITH VITAMIN B5
Vitamin B5, also known as Pantothenic acid or Panthenol, is incredibly beneficial for sunburnt lips due to its multi-faceted properties. Here's a breakdown of how it can help:
- Hydrating: deeply moisturises the lips by attracting and retaining moisture, preventing dryness and tightness.
- Regenerative: accelerates skin repair, promoting faster recovery of damaged skin.
- Counteracting: counteracting redness and inflammation, which provides significant relief from discomfort and pain.
- Protective: It strengthens the skin barrier, helping to prevent further damage and reduce moisture loss from compromised lips.
- Soothing: alleviates irritation, calming the itching and burning sensations often associated with sunburn.
RESTORE MOISTURE IN THE LIPS
Use a hydrating lip balm containing shea butter to nourish and restore hydration, which is often affected by UV radiation. You can also use a formula containing emollients like petrolatum that create a protective layer around the skin to prevent water loss.
HYDRATE THE SKIN FROM WITHIN
A hydrated body translates to hydrated skin, so drink plenty of water to support skin hydration.
AVOID FURTHER SUN EXPOSURE
If your skin is already irritated, more sun exposure can worsen it. Extensive sun exposure also increases the risk of developing more serious skin cancers. Try to avoid exposing your lips to further UV radiation by avoiding peak UV hours.
INCORPORATE AN SPF LIP BALM
Prevent recurrence by using a broad-spectrum, high SPF sunscreen suitable for the lips, or an SPF lip balm to moisturise and protect. Good skincare habits will support recovery as well as improve the overall condition and appearance of your lips in the long term.
CAN I EXFOLIATE SUNBURNT LIPS?
Avoid exfoliating the lip area when you first notice sunburn, as it will likely exacerbate irritation. Once your skin has recovered, however you may still be left with dryness and skin flaking, which you can address by gently exfoliating. Use a soft, damp face towel to gently remove dead skin cells, or a very gentle lip scrub (a sugar scrub is a good option), followed by a moisturising lip balm.
WHAT TO AVOID WHEN YOUR LIPS ARE SUNBURNT
If your lips are sunburnt, avoid:
· Strong exfoliating products until the skin has fully recovered.
· Picking at or peeling flaking skin from the lips.
· Regular sunscreen products not formulated for the lip area.
· Hot, spicy or acidic foods that can increase irritation.
HOW LONG DOES IT TAKE FOR SUNBURNT LIPS TO RECOVER?
In very mild cases, sunburn will go away within 3-5 days, with proper care. But more serious cases may take longer and require medical attention. Sunburn that hasn’t gone away after a few weeks should be discussed with a healthcare professional.
HOW TO PREVENT SUNBURNT LIPS
Preventing sunburnt lips is significantly easier than treating them, and it starts with choosing the right lip protection products.
1. Use a dedicated broad-spectrum, high SPF lip balm with adequate protection.
2. Apply your SPF lip balm 15 minutes before sun exposure
3. Reapply every two hours, or more frequently after eating, drinking, or swimming
USE SPF LIP BALMS YEAR-ROUND, NOT JUST IN SUMMER
Many regular lip products, like lipstick or non-SPF balms, don’t provide adequate sun protection. In fact, some lip products containing petrolatum or oils can actually intensify UV damage, making an SPF lip balm essential.
OTHER WAYS TO PREVENT SUNBURNT LIPS
Beyond high SPF lip balms, consider these additional strategies to protect your lips:
1. Wear a hat with a wide brim to shade your face and lips
2. Seek shade during peak sun hours (10 a.m. to 4 p.m.)
3. Consider physical barriers like scarves in extreme conditions
4. Stay hydrated to maintain lip moisture from within
5. Be especially vigilant about protecting your lower lip, which receives more direct sunlight
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WHY USE RETINOL VS VIT C, BHA'S & MORE
Retinol, a derivative of vitamin A, is highly efficacious skincare ingredient used across a range of products. Known for its ability to help minimise signs of ageing, accelerate skin cell renewal, stimulate collagen synthesis and encourage skin firnmess, retinol can be beneficial for all skin types.
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