People often forget to protect their lips from the sun, even though they are one of the most delicate parts of their body. Too much time in the sun can cause painful and unattractive sun blister on lips, which are also called cold sores. Not only do these blisters hurt, but they can also be embarrassing and make you feel less confident. You can keep your lips from getting sunburned, though, if you know what to do.
Cold sores or fever blisters are another name for sun blisters on the lips. They are small spots that are usually on or near the lips and are filled with fluid. They are caused by HSV-1, which is the herpes simplex virus. People who are prone to cold sores are more likely to get them when they are out in the sun. When your lips are in the sun for too long, the immune system may not be able to fight off the HSV-1 virus as well, which can cause blisters to form.
Strategies To Prevent Sun Blisters On Lips
Use Lip Balm With Sunscreen: Putting on lip balm with sunscreen is one of the best ways to keep your lips from getting sunburned. Sun protection factor (SPF) lip balms should have at least 30 or more. Apply the lip balm generously before going outdoors, and reapply it frequently every two hours or more if you’re swimming or sweating.
Wear A Wide-Brimmed Hat: Wearing a wide-brimmed hat that covers your face and lips is another way to keep your lips safe from the sun. This adds another layer of defense against UV rays that are bad for you and lowers your risk of getting sunburned or blisters.
Avoid Peak Sun Hours: The sun’s rays are best between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m., so try to stay out of the sun for long periods during those times. If you have to be outside during these times, try to find shade and come inside for a while to protect your lips from the sun.
Stay Hydrated: For healthy lips, it’s important to keep your body moist. Drink plenty of water throughout the day to prevent dehydration, making your lips more susceptible to sun damage and blister formation.
Choose Lip Products Wisely: Be mindful of the lip products you use, as some may contain ingredients that can irritate your lips or make them more sensitive to the sun. Avoid lip balms or lipsticks with fragrances, dyes, or harsh chemicals. Opt for natural, hypoallergenic lip products that nourish and protect your lips without irritating them.
Eat A Balanced Diet: To keep your skin healthy all over, even on your lips, you need to eat a range of foods that are high in vitamins and nutrients. Incorporate foods high in vitamins C and E, as well as zinc, into your diet, as these nutrients have been shown to support skin healing and protect against sun damage.
Be Mindful Of Medications: Certain medications, such as antibiotics and acne treatments, can make your skin more sensitive to the sun. Talk to your doctor or nurse about any medicines you’re taking to find out if they raise your risk of getting sunburned or blisters on your lips from the sun.
Treat Cold Sores Promptly: If you do develop sun blisters or cold sores on your lips, it’s essential to treat them promptly to prevent further discomfort and the spread of the virus. Antiviral creams and ointments that you can buy over the counter can help shorten the time that cold sores last and ease their symptoms. Also, don’t pick at or pop the blisters because that can cause infections and scars.
Conclusion
Protecting your lips from the sun is very important if you want to keep them healthy and beautiful. By using these tips and being proactive about sun protection, you can enjoy being outside without having to worry about getting lip blisters from the sun. To keep your lips safe and healthy, don’t forget to protect them from the sun all year, not just in the summer.