The skin on the lips is particularly delicate and often overlooked in sun protection routines, making it vulnerable to sun damage. When exposed to excessive ultraviolet (UV) radiation, lips can sunburn, leading to swelling and discomfort. This article explains the causes, symptoms, and management strategies to protect and heal your lips.
Why Lips Swell from Sunburn
Lips swell from sunburn primarily due to an inflammatory response triggered by UV radiation damage. Both UVA and UVB rays penetrate the delicate outer layers of the lip skin, which are thinner and contain less protective melanin compared to other areas of the body. The body responds by increasing blood flow to the affected area, a process known as vasodilation, where blood vessels widen.
Increased blood flow brings immune cells and inflammatory mediators to the injury site. These mediators cause fluids to leak from the blood vessels into the surrounding tissues of the lips, leading to fluid accumulation. This fluid accumulation manifests as visible swelling. The inherent thinness of lip skin, coupled with its lack of sweat and oil glands, contributes to its heightened susceptibility to damage and subsequent swelling, often making the lower lip more vulnerable due to greater sun exposure.
Identifying Sunburnt Lips
Identifying sunburnt lips involves recognizing signs and symptoms that typically appear within hours of sun exposure. Beyond noticeable swelling, the lips may appear redder or darker than their normal tone, feeling warm, tender, or sore to the touch. This tenderness can make everyday activities like eating, drinking, or talking uncomfortable.
As the sunburn progresses, the lips might also experience dryness, cracking, and peeling. In more severe cases, small, fluid-filled blisters can develop. These sunburn blisters are typically white and differ from cold sores, which often tingle, burn, or itch and may be pus-filled.
Treating Sunburnt Lips
Treating sunburnt lips focuses on alleviating discomfort and supporting natural healing. Applying cool compresses to the lips, such as a washcloth soaked in cold water, can help reduce heat, pain, and inflammation. Keeping the lips hydrated is also important; moisturizers containing ingredients like aloe vera, shea butter, or soy can soothe and protect the skin.
Over-the-counter anti-inflammatory medications, such as ibuprofen or aspirin, can help manage pain and reduce swelling. Avoid products containing petroleum jelly, menthol, camphor, or strong fragrances, as these can trap heat or further irritate damaged lip skin. Staying well-hydrated by drinking plenty of water also supports healing, as sunburn can lead to dehydration. Medical attention should be sought for severely swollen lips, a swollen tongue, rash, signs of infection like pus or fever, or if symptoms persist or worsen.
Preventing Lip Sunburn
Preventing lip sunburn involves consistent measures to shield the delicate lip skin from UV radiation. Using an SPF lip balm is crucial. It is recommended to use a lip balm with at least SPF 30, which blocks approximately 97% of UVB rays.
Frequent reapplication of SPF lip balm is essential, every two hours, or more often after eating, drinking, or swimming. The constant movement of the lips through talking and eating can cause the product to wear off quickly. Wearing a wide-brimmed hat provides shade for the entire face, including the lips. Limiting direct sun exposure, especially during peak UV hours (typically 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.), also reduces the risk of sun damage.