Houston Heat: Sunscreen Lies Cracking Lips?

By Franklin Everett Shaw

December 30, 2025

It’s not just about slapping on some ChapStick and hoping for the best. Houston’s sun and heat are relentless, and your lips are often the first to suffer. We’re talking cracked, burned, and peeling – not a good look, and definitely not comfortable.

Here’s your Houston-specific guide to keeping your lips healthy and happy, even when the weather is trying its best to ruin them.

First, let’s tackle some common sunscreen myths that are especially relevant in our Texas climate. Many people think a single application in the morning is enough. Wrong. The Texas sun laughs at that. Reapplication is key, especially after sweating (which, let’s face it, is constant here) or drinking. Another myth? That darker skin tones don’t need sunscreen. Everyone needs protection from UV rays, regardless of skin color. Melanin offers some protection, but it’s not a shield. Finally, the biggest myth of all: that SPF 15 is sufficient. In Houston, aim for SPF 30 or higher, and make sure it’s broad spectrum, protecting against both UVA and UVB rays.

Now, let’s talk ingredients. Not all lip balms are created equal. For Houston’s intense heat, you need ingredients that provide both hydration and a protective barrier. Look for lip balms containing:

Zinc oxide or titanium dioxide: These are mineral sunscreens that physically block UV rays. They’re also generally less irritating than chemical sunscreens.
Shea butter or cocoa butter: These are emollients that help to soften and moisturize the lips.
Beeswax or candelilla wax: These create a protective barrier to prevent moisture loss.
Hyaluronic acid: This humectant attracts moisture to the lips, keeping them hydrated.
Vitamin E: An antioxidant that helps to protect the lips from damage caused by free radicals.

Avoid lip balms with ingredients like:

Camphor or menthol: These can feel cooling initially, but they can actually dry out your lips in the long run.
Fragrances or dyes: These can irritate sensitive skin.
Alcohol: This is a drying agent.

Application is just as important as the ingredients. Don’t just swipe on some lip balm once in the morning and forget about it. Think of it like this: you wouldn’t just apply deodorant once on a hot Houston day, would you?

Here’s a step-by-step guide to proper lip balm application:

Exfoliate: Gently exfoliate your lips 1-2 times per week to remove dead skin cells. You can use a lip scrub or a soft toothbrush.
Apply liberally: Apply a generous layer of lip balm to your lips, making sure to cover the entire surface.
Reapply frequently: Reapply lip balm every 1-2 hours, or more often if you’re sweating or drinking.
Apply before sun exposure: Apply lip balm with SPF 30 or higher at least 15 minutes before going outside.
Apply at night: Apply a thick layer of lip balm before bed to help your lips stay hydrated overnight.

A common mistake is only applying lip balm when your lips already feel dry or cracked. Prevention is key. Start applying lip balm regularly before you experience any discomfort. Another pitfall is using expired lip balm. Sunscreen ingredients degrade over time, so check the expiration date and replace your lip balm regularly.

Choosing the right sunscreen can be tricky. Look for a lip balm with broad-spectrum protection and an SPF of 30 or higher. Mineral sunscreens (zinc oxide and titanium dioxide) are generally a good choice, as they’re less likely to cause irritation. Water resistance is also important, especially if you’re going to be sweating or swimming.

Consider these real-world scenarios:

Spending the day at Discovery Green: Reapply your lip balm every hour, especially after drinking.
Attending an Astros game: Wear a hat to provide extra shade for your face and lips.
Working outdoors: Keep a lip balm with SPF in your pocket and reapply it frequently throughout the day.
Running errands: Even short trips outside can expose your lips to harmful UV rays. Apply lip balm before you leave the house.

Houston offers several resources for skin health information. The American Academy of Dermatology has a local chapter in Houston that provides information and resources on skin cancer prevention and treatment. Many dermatologists in the Houston area offer free skin cancer screenings. Take advantage of these resources to learn more about protecting your skin and lips from the sun.

Don’t underestimate the power of hydration. Drinking plenty of water helps to keep your skin and lips hydrated from the inside out. Carry a water bottle with you and sip on it throughout the day.

Protecting your lips in Houston’s harsh climate requires a proactive approach. By debunking common sunscreen myths, choosing the right lip balm ingredients, and applying it properly, you can keep your lips healthy, hydrated, and protected from the sun. Remember, prevention is always better than cure.