Now that summer is finally here, the sun is shining and temperatures are rising. While it’s essentially irresistible to get outside and enjoy it, it’s a good idea to keep your oral health in mind as you do so. The summer weather can cause any number of problems for your teeth and gums, not to mention your lips.
If you want to keep your lips smooth this summer, it’s important that you protect them from the sun as much as you possible can. Here are a few things you can do to make that easier.
Use a Lip Balm with SPF
One of the most straightforward and effective methods is using a lip balm that contains Sun Protection Factor (SPF). Look for a lip balm with at least SPF 15 or higher for adequate protection. Apply it generously and reapply every two hours, or more often if you’re swimming or sweating. Lip balms with SPF not only shield your lips from the sun but also keep them moisturized, preventing them from becoming dry and cracked.
Wear a Wide-Brimmed Hat
A wide-brimmed hat provides excellent protection by creating shade over your entire face, including your lips. Hats with a brim of at least three inches can significantly reduce direct sun exposure. This is especially beneficial during peak sun hours, typically between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m., when UV radiation is strongest. Pairing a wide-brimmed hat with other sun protection measures, like SPF lip balm, can enhance your overall protection.
Seek Shade and Avoid Peak Sun Hours
Limiting your direct sun exposure is another practical way to protect your lips. Seek shade whenever possible, especially during peak sun hours. This can include staying under umbrellas, trees, or other shaded areas. If you need to be outdoors during these times, try to minimize the duration and combine it with other protective measures, such as wearing a hat and applying SPF lip balm. Staying in the shade reduces the risk of sunburn and long-term damage to your lips.
About Our Practice
At Hill Avenue Dental, we believe that oral health is about more than just teeth; it touches every part of our lives and is essential to helping you be your best self. That being the case, we not only help our patients when they’re in pain, we also form strong relationships with them based on integrity, shared knowledge, and mutual respect. When you visit our practice, you’ll find a team of people who really care about you and your needs.
If you have any questions about how you can protect your oral health this summer, we can be reached at our website or by phone at (715) 392-5161.