When we talk about sun protection, we immediately think of the skin on our face and body, often neglecting one of the most vulnerable parts of our face: the lips.
Yet, the skin on the lips is one of the thinnest and most sensitive, with physiological characteristics that make it particularly susceptible to damage caused by ultraviolet (UV) rays.
Protecting the lips from the sun is therefore not just a matter of aesthetics, but a fundamental act for health.
Why lip skin is more fragile
The lips are covered by a very thin mucous membrane, lacking a horny layer and almost completely devoid of melanin, the pigment that protects the skin from UV rays.
This means they have no natural defense against sun exposure.
Moreover, the lips do not contain sebaceous glands, which makes them unable to hydrate themselves: they therefore tend to dry out and become chapped easily, especially in extreme weather conditions such as intense sun, wind, or dry cold.
Visible damage: chapping, redness, and dehydration
The most common effect of the sun on the lips is dehydration.
After prolonged sun exposure, the lips may become dry, feel tight, develop small cracks or blisters, and appear red or sore.
In more severe cases, true solar cheilitis may develop, a chronic inflammation that can also cause persistent peeling.
The cumulative effect of these exposures over time can compromise the structure of the lip tissue.
Invisible damage: actinic cheilitis and cancer risk
One of the long-term effects of unprotected sun exposure is actinic cheilitis (also known as actinic cheilosis), a precancerous lesion that mainly affects the lower lip.
It appears as chronic dryness, color changes, persistent fissures, or scabs.
This condition should not be underestimated, as it is considered a precursor to squamous cell carcinoma, a malignant skin cancer.
According to the Skin Cancer Foundation, the lower lip is 12 times more likely to develop skin cancer than the upper lip, due to its more direct exposure to sunlight.
Who is most at risk
Everyone should protect their lips from the sun, but some groups are more vulnerable: those who work or exercise outdoors, athletes (especially skiers, cyclists, runners, and sailors), people with fair skin, and children, whose skin is thinner and more reactive.
Those who regularly use photosensitizing products, such as antibiotics or retinoids, should also take extra care.
How to effectively protect the lips
The solution is simple but often overlooked: use a lip balm with sun protection (SPF).
The best products contain broad-spectrum sun filters (against both UVA and UVB), are water-resistant, and also provide moisturizing action.
It is advisable to choose SPF 30 or higher if you are exposed to the sun for long periods, such as at the beach or in the mountains.
The most effective products are those specifically formulated for the lips, which do not contain irritating ingredients or artificial fragrances.
Here are some reliable examples:
Be careful in winter and on cloudy days
Many people think lip protection is only needed in summer, but that’s not true.
Even in winter, especially on snow, UV rays can be very intense due to the reflective effect of the white surface.
Similarly, on cloudy days up to 80% of UV rays can penetrate the clouds: protecting your lips remains essential all year round.
Natural and complementary remedies
In addition to balms with sun filters, it’s helpful to keep your lips constantly moisturized with soothing and nourishing natural ingredients such as shea butter, coconut oil, jojoba oil, and vitamin E.
Some of these ingredients are already found in sun-protection lip balms, but they can also be used in the evening, after sun exposure, to repair and nourish the lips.
In addition, good overall hydration is essential: drinking water regularly helps keep the skin and mucous membranes well hydrated from within.
Warning signs not to ignore
If your lips appear altered for more than two weeks (scabs that won’t heal, continuous peeling, suspicious hardening, or color changes), it is important to consult a dermatologist.
In the presence of suspected actinic cheilitis, a biopsy may be necessary to rule out cancerous conditions.
Teaching children prevention
Teaching children from a young age to protect their lips is an important act of health education.
Using a sun stick in the mountains, at the beach, or at the park should become a simple and natural habit, just like applying sunscreen on the face.
There are gentle products specifically designed for them, fragrance-free and with physical filters suitable for their sensitive skin.
Protecting the lips from the sun is a simple gesture, but of great importance.
Not doing so can lead to visible consequences such as dryness and chapping, but also to much more serious problems such as actinic cheilitis and skin cancer.
Incorporating a lip balm with SPF into your daily routine is a small gesture that makes a big difference, not only in summer but all year round.
Lips deserve the same attention we give to facial skin: delicate, sensitive, and precious, they must be cared for and protected with consistency and awareness.