Sun protection for lips: the forgotten spot
Published · updated
Most people stop at the lip line when applying sunscreen — yet lip skin is among the most sun-sensitive areas of all. It contains almost no melanin, the skin's own UV protection.
Why lips barely protect themselves
Melanin doesn't just give skin its colour — it also absorbs part of the UV radiation. Lip skin contains very little of it, so its natural protection is minimal, whatever your skin type.
Regular sunscreen is no solution on lips: it doesn't stay put and isn't meant for the mouth area. That is what lip care with an SPF is for.
When protection matters most
In the mountains, UV radiation increases with every step in altitude, and snow and water reflect it on top. Hikes, ski days, the pool and the lakeside are the classic moments for lip care with SPF.
As with any sun protection: reapply regularly — after eating, drinking and swimming especially.
