When considering sun protection, most individuals focus on the skin of the face, arms, and legs. However, one often overlooked—and highly vulnerable—area is the lips. Due to their thin skin and limited melanin, the lips are especially susceptible to ultraviolet (UV) damage. At our practice, we are committed to supporting whole-mouth health, and this includes educating patients about the risks associated with sun exposure to the lips and the importance of early detection of oral skin cancers.

Why Are the Lips at Risk?

The lower lip, in particular, is frequently exposed to sunlight, as it tends to protrude and is less likely to be shaded naturally. This area is a common site for actinic cheilitis, a precancerous condition resulting from prolonged sun exposure. If left untreated, actinic cheilitis can progress to squamous cell carcinoma, a form of skin cancer.

Common signs of sun damage on the lips include:

• Persistent dryness or cracking that does not resolve
• Pale, scaly, or crusted patches
• Localized thickening or swelling
• Sores or ulcers that fail to heal

These symptoms can easily be mistaken for chapped lips, cold sores, or minor irritation, which underscores the importance of regular dental examinations and professional oral cancer screenings.

Preventive Measures for Lip Protection

1. Utilize Lip Balm with SPF Protection
2. Apply a lip balm that contains SPF 30 or higher, offering broad-spectrum protection against both UVA and UVB rays. Reapplication should occur every two hours, particularly following meals, drinking, or swimming.
3. Limit Sun Exposure During Peak Hours
4. UV rays are strongest between 10:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. Minimizing outdoor activity during these hours can reduce the risk of UV-related damage.
5. Wear a Wide-Brimmed Hat
6. A hat with a brim of at least three inches can provide adequate shade for the face and lips, offering an additional layer of protection from the sun.
7. Maintain Proper Hydration
8. Adequate hydration supports overall skin health and can help prevent the lips from becoming excessively dry or cracked.
9. Monitor for Changes
10. Any persistent lesion, discoloration, or change in the texture of the lips warrants prompt professional evaluation. Early diagnosis significantly improves treatment outcomes for oral and lip cancers.

Our Role in Your Oral Health

As part of every comprehensive dental examination, our team performs a complete soft tissue screening, which includes the lips, tongue, cheeks, floor of the mouth, and oropharynx. Our objective is to identify any abnormalities early and provide the necessary guidance or referrals for further evaluation.

Sun protection should not be limited to the skin—it is essential for your lips and overall oral health as well. This summer, we encourage you to include lip sunscreen in your daily routine. Preventive care today can have a significant impact on your health in the future.

If you have questions or concerns about changes to your lips or oral tissues, please do not hesitate to contact our office. We are here to help you maintain a healthy and confident smile.