Spending time out in the sun makes summer enjoyable for so many people. Whether swimming in a pool, visiting the beach, or grilling out with family and friends in the backyard, the outdoors beckons to children and adults alike. But have you considered how to protect yourself when basking in the sun’s rays? Sunscreen is a natural option, especially for your arms, legs, and back, but what about your lips? Do you know what could potentially happen if you neglect this sensitive area? Keep reading to discover the dangers of oral cancer and 3 ways to safeguard your smile.
What is the Link Between Oral Cancer and Sun Exposure?
Your lips are a highly sensitive area that can burn when exposed to too much direct sunlight. While UVA and UVB rays both affect the skin, UVB is the culprit behind sunburns and skin damage.
Over time, when lips are left unprotected, damaged skin cells can result in the formation of oral cancer. There are two types that can form: a precancerous condition (actinic cheilitis) or lip cancer (squamous cell carcinoma).
Since the skin on your lips is significantly thinner and void of melanin – a pigment that helps protect against UV rays – it’s far too easy for them to be harmed.
How Should You Protect Your Lips?
While nothing says you should avoid the sun altogether, it’s important that you take special precautions. You can do this by:
- Choosing the Right Time for Sun Exposure: The sun’s harmful rays are often the most dangerous during peak daylight hours, which are usually between 10 a.m. and 3 p.m. Try to swim in the morning or late afternoon to minimize your exposure.
- Wear Lip Protection: Find a lip balm that contains at least an SPF 30+ rating. This will deliver an estimated 97% protection against UVB rays. However, be sure that you reapply it regularly (every two hours).
- Style Up Your Swimsuit with a Big Hat: Wearing a wide-brimmed or floppy hat can give your lips and face much-needed protection from the sun. Most are stylish and enjoyable to wear, making them a great addition to anything you might wear to the pool or beach.
Don’t risk your overall health by forgetting to protect your lips. Give them the same amount of care as you do the rest of your body while spending the majority of your time outdoors this summer.
About the Author
Dr. Rebecca Long is a trusted dentist near Austin who completed her dental doctorate at the University of Illinois at Chicago College of Dentistry. Overseeing a talented group of administrative and clinical staff at Westlake Hills Dental Arts, she aims to provide her patients with useful tips designed to safeguard their smile year-round, especially during the summer. While enjoying the outdoors and sunshine, Dr. Long offers ways to protect one’s lips and oral health so that more serious problems do not occur later on. If you need help to learn what you can do to prepare for your vacation or summertime festivities, contact us via our website or call (512) 328-0155.