Our dentist in Vegas cares about more than just teeth. Our entire team wants to help keep your whole mouth healthy, including your lips! Many people forget to protect their lips from the sun. But just like your skin, your lips can get sunburned and damaged.
Regular oral cancer screenings at Miracle Dental are the best way to catch skin and oral cancers early. So, give our dentist in Las Vegas, NV, a call at (702) 456-0056 to protect your smile and health!
Using SPF on your lips is so important. In today’s post, our dentist in Vegas explains how sun exposure can cause dryness, cracking, and even increase the risk of lip cancer.
The Dangers of Sun Damage to Lips
The sun’s UV rays can be very harmful to your lips. Unlike the rest of your skin, lips have very little melanin, which is what helps protect your skin from the sun. This means that your lips burn easily, resulting in painful, chapped lips, wrinkles, and even serious health risks.
Our dentist in Vegas has seen many patients with lip damage caused by the sun. Long-term sun exposure can lead to a condition called actinic cheilitis, which causes dry, scaly patches on the lips. If untreated, it can turn into lip cancer. Protecting your lips with SPF can help prevent these problems!
What Kind of SPF Should You Use?
Not all SPF products are good for your lips. Some regular sunscreens taste bad and can be irritating to delicate lip skin.
Instead, use a lip balm or lipstick with SPF 15 or higher. Look for a product that blocks both UVA and UVB rays. Water-resistant options are great if you sweat a lot or swim often.
Our dentist in Vegas recommends applying SPF lip balm every two hours, especially when outside. If you eat or drink, reapply right away. Don’t forget to use SPF even on cloudy days – UV rays can still cause damage!
Tips to Keep Lips Healthy
Using SPF is just one way to keep your lips in top shape. Here are some more tips from a dentist in Vegas:
- Drink plenty of water to keep your lips smooth and hydrated.
- Use a lip product with moisturizing ingredients, like shea butter or coconut oil.
- Avoid licking your lips. This dries them out even more.
- Wear a wide-brimmed hat for extra sun protection.
- Check your lips often for any unusual spots or sores.
Why SPF Matters in Vegas
If you live in or visit Las Vegas, you know how strong the sun is here. The desert climate makes it even easier for lips to become chapped and damaged. That’s why SPF lip balm is a must-have for everyone in Vegas!
Make SPF a Daily Habit
Don’t wait until your lips are hurting to start using SPF. Protect them every day! A little SPF can prevent a lot of pain and problems later.
Our dentist in Vegas always reminds patients that a healthy smile includes healthy lips. So, grab an SPF lip balm and keep your lips safe from the sun!
Prevent Sun Damage – Visit a Dentist in Vegas Today!
By following these simple tips, you can enjoy the sunshine without worrying about lip damage. But don’t forget to schedule oral cancer screenings at Miracle Dental in Las Vegas, NV, to catch the early signs of cancer. Click here for an appointment, or call our team at (702) 456-0056 to request a check-up and screening now!
