{"id":708,"date":"2026-05-07T21:33:02","date_gmt":"2026-05-07T21:33:02","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.dgdental.com\/blog\/?p=708"},"modified":"2026-05-14T21:34:55","modified_gmt":"2026-05-14T21:34:55","slug":"what-to-know-about-sun-exposure-and-oral-health","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.dgdental.com\/blog\/what-to-know-about-sun-exposure-and-oral-health\/","title":{"rendered":"Are Your Lips at Risk? What to Know About Sun Exposure and Oral Health"},"content":{"rendered":"
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As the seasons roll into warmer weather, you might be excited about having the sun shining brightly. While you plan on spending plenty of time outside, it\u2019s important that you protect your skin. You may have sunscreen on hand, but don\u2019t forget about your face! In fact, your lips may be at risk of conditions like oral cancer if you aren\u2019t careful. Here\u2019s what you need to know to protect your smile<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n

How Can the Sun Affect My Lips?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

While the sun may feel great against your skin, the ultraviolet rays can be trouble. While you likely take steps to protect your body, don\u2019t forget about your lips. In fact, they may be even more vulnerable to radiation as they are thinner and lack melanin. They may become sunburnt, but you also risk developing oral cancer. More than 50.000 patients are affected by this condition yearly, so it\u2019s important you take steps against it.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

What Can I Do to Protect My Smile from the Sun?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Although the thought of oral cancer can be worrying, there are easy ways you can protect your smile. Firstly, use an SPF lip balm. Just like sunscreen, this product helps shield against sunrays. Try to find one that\u2019s SPF 30 or higher, as there is a difference in how much radiation reaches your skin compared to those with a lower number.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

You can also invest in a wide-brimmed hat. This will keep the sun out of your eyes but also protect your lips and face. Not only that, but try to stay indoors or in the shade during peak hours. Mid-morning and mid-afternoon are often the hottest times of the day, so it\u2019s best to keep that in mind.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

How Can I Soothe Sunburnt Lips?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Although you do your best to protect your lips, what should you do if they get sunburned? Here are some handy tips to try:<\/p>\n\n\n\n