**Houston Heatwave: Sunscreen Lies Burning Lips?**
By Franklin Everett ShawThe Houston sun doesn’t play around. It’s a relentless, scorching force that can turn a pleasant afternoon into a painful memory, especially when it comes to your lips. We slather on sunscreen, wear hats, and seek shade, but often forget the delicate skin on our lips, leaving them vulnerable to sun damage.
Houston, we have a problem: sunburnt lips.
This isn’t just about aesthetics; it’s about preventing long-term damage and reducing your risk of skin cancer. This guide is your hyper-local survival kit for keeping your lips healthy and happy under the Texas sun.
First, let’s debunk some common sunscreen myths that might be sabotaging your efforts. Many believe that a single application of sunscreen in the morning is enough. This is false. Sunscreen needs to be reapplied every two hours, especially after swimming or sweating, which is practically a constant state in Houston’s humidity. Another myth is that darker skin tones don’t need sunscreen. While darker skin has more melanin, it’s still susceptible to sun damage and skin cancer. Everyone, regardless of skin tone, needs sun protection. Finally, many people think that SPF in makeup is sufficient. It’s usually not enough. The SPF in makeup is often too low and not applied evenly enough to provide adequate protection.
So, how do you know if your lips are already sunburnt? Look for these telltale signs: redness, swelling, tenderness, blisters, and a dry, cracked feeling. It might even feel like a burning sensation. If you experience these symptoms, treat your lips like any other sunburned skin: apply a cool compress, use a soothing balm with aloe vera, and avoid further sun exposure.
Now, let’s talk prevention. Sunscreen lip balm is your best friend. But not all lip balms are created equal. You need a broad-spectrum SPF 30 or higher. Broad-spectrum means it protects against both UVA and UVB rays.
Here are some readily available SPF lip balms you can find in Houston-area drugstores like CVS, Walgreens, and H-E-B:
Aquaphor Lip Repair with SPF 30: This is a classic for a reason. It’s moisturizing, effective, and widely available. Look for it in the skincare aisle at most drugstores.
Neutrogena Norwegian Formula Lip Moisturizer SPF 15: While the SPF is lower than our recommendation of 30, it’s better than nothing and a good option if you’re primarily indoors. It’s also fragrance-free, which is great for sensitive skin.
Blistex Medicated Lip Balm SPF 15: Another readily available option with a lower SPF. It contains camphor and menthol, which can provide a cooling sensation and help soothe irritated lips.
Sun Bum Sunscreen Lip Balm SPF 30: This brand is becoming increasingly popular and can be found at Target and some drugstores. It comes in various flavors and is known for its moisturizing properties.
CeraVe Healing Lip Balm SPF 30: This is a great option for those with very dry or sensitive lips. It contains ceramides, which help to restore the skin’s natural barrier.
Pro Tip: Don’t just apply lip balm once in the morning. Reapply frequently, especially after eating, drinking, or sweating. Keep a lip balm with SPF in your purse, car, and at your desk so you always have it on hand.
Beyond sunscreen, there are other preventative measures you can take. Wear a wide-brimmed hat that shades your face and lips. Seek shade during the peak sun hours, typically between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. Avoid reflective surfaces like water or sand, which can intensify the sun’s rays.
Here’s a step-by-step guide to applying SPF lip balm effectively:
- Start with clean, dry lips.
- Apply a generous amount of lip balm to cover your entire lip surface, including the edges.
- Reapply every two hours, or more frequently if you’re eating, drinking, or sweating.
- Don’t forget to apply lip balm before going outside, even on cloudy days.
One common mistake people make is only applying lip balm to the center of their lips. The edges are just as vulnerable to sun damage. Another mistake is using expired lip balm. Sunscreen ingredients degrade over time, so check the expiration date and replace your lip balm if it’s past its prime.
Long-term lip care is crucial for maintaining healthy lips in Houston’s harsh climate. Exfoliate your lips gently once or twice a week to remove dead skin cells. You can use a lip scrub or a soft toothbrush. Hydrate your lips by drinking plenty of water. Dehydration can make your lips dry and more susceptible to sun damage. Avoid licking your lips. Saliva can actually dry out your lips, making them more prone to cracking and sunburn. Use a humidifier, especially during the winter months, to add moisture to the air and prevent dry lips.
Living in Houston means embracing the heat, but it also means taking extra precautions to protect your skin, including your lips. By debunking common sunscreen myths, using SPF lip balm consistently, and adopting long-term lip care strategies, you can keep your lips healthy, hydrated, and protected from the sun’s harmful rays. So, grab your SPF lip balm, Houstonians, and enjoy the sunshine responsibly!