Do Lips Get Sunburned? Everything You Need to Know About Lip SPF

You know the secret on everyone’s lips? It’s quite literally what *most of us* are always forgetting – applying a layer of lip SPF! While perfecting your everyday suncare routine is defs worth celebrating, there’s no getting around it – our lips are often overlooked. 

So, do lips need sunscreen, or will regular SPF do the job? Let’s find out. 

Do lips need sunscreen? 

The answer is heck yes! Our lips are highly susceptible to sun damage. This is because they lack the melanin that provides some sun protection to other skin areas. (Melanin is basically the body’s natural defense against UV damage.) Skipping lip SPF can lead to dryness, sunburn, and over time, may contribute to collagen degradation and an increased risk of skin cancer. 

Are we talking UVA rays or UVB rays?

We’re talking about both. 

UVA rays are largely responsible for:

• premature ageing

• fine lines

• … and a decrease in elasticity.

On the other hand, UVB rays cause sunburns and are a major contributor to the development of skin cancer. 

But, it’s not just the sun and heat to worry about – wind and cold air can also play games on our skin (rude, tbh). SPF lip balm provides both protection and hydration. That’s why year-round lip protection with SPF is essential. Can you hear the *alarm* bells? They’re saying that you need to start prioritizing those lippy lips of yours (it’s about damn time!).

Can I apply face sunscreen on my lips?

While it’s not *quote unquote* dangerous to use regular sunscreen on your lips, it’s often not recommended, as it doesn’t always provide the right level of protection for this sensitive area. And, depending on the type of sunscreen you use, it might not be suitable for the lip area (i.e., it might not taste very good, or it might leave a white cast). You wanna make sure you’re covered – which is why a lip SPF is the top choice. 

Choosing the right lip SPF

Step one on your list is knowing your skin type – because you might need to be on the lookout for a sensitive skin or fragrance-free lip SPF. You’ll need a minimum of SPF 30 for daily use on your lips, but SPF 50 is often recommended as the top choice.

As for ingredients – look for hydrating ingredients like beeswax, shea butter or coconut oil, or, if you’re dealing with super dry, chapped lips – glycerin, petrolatum or squalane works well. 

What about the rest of my body? 

For that bod of yours, we’ve got plenty of suncare products to come – including our Whipped SPF50 Sunscreen that’s doing great things for both face and body in Australia. 

Who, us? Sundae is the balm to your lips, but in the world of bodycare, of course! While we haven’t released a lip-smackin’ SPF lip balm – (yet!) –we’re working hard to bring our sunny suncare range to you. Watch this space.

Loved this blog? Here’s some further reading (dw, these are waaaay more fun than your last homework assignment. Hehe).

• How To Re-Apply Sunscreen Over Makeup

• Your Ultimate Guide to Sun Protection

• After Sun Skincare 101

Happy Sundae x

Always read the label and follow the directions for use. Sunscreen is only one part of sun protection. Avoid prolonged high-risk sun exposure. Re-apply frequently.

Written By: Lizzie Waley (Sundae Co-Founder & Body Care Enthusiast) | LinkedIn

Fact Checked: Charnnie Frimpong (Sundae Content Marketing Manager) | Linkedin