Do you know that your eyes and lips are two areas that can first show cosmetic changes from sun exposure? Today we are talking about all the important reasons why you should apply sunscreen to your eyelids and lips! Plus a summer sundress for the win!
Why You Should Apply Sunscreen to Your Eyelids
According to research, approximately 5-10% of skin cancers develop in the eye region. Yikes! Many of us (myself included), often forget to apply sunscreen in this area. And yet this area of skin is often very thin and sensitive.
The eyelid area can be the most susceptible to showing signs of aging, causing fine lines which turn into deep wrinkles, skin tone changes, puffiness and sagging. Generally the eyelid area is the first place on the body to reflect aging.
In the worst case scenario that a cancer does occur in the eye area, it can be tricky to diagnose and complicated to remove without affecting your cosmetic appearance. It’s important we keep our eyelids protected!
It’s a common frustration when sunscreen gets into the eyes. Everyone has experienced that stinging sensation before – yikes. Find a product that works for you.
My dermatologist recommends this product specifically for the eye areas. With SPF 50, it exceeds the American Academy of Dermatology recommendations. This product also has cosmetic benefits, such as promotion of even skin tones and increased firmness of the skin.
To apply sunscreen around the eyes one tip is to use a mini beauty blender. This helps your eyelids gently absorb the product and avoid tugging on that sensitive skin!
For the face in general, Blue Lizard Face is a great option.
In addition to sunscreen, hats and sunglasses with UV protection can also provide an additional barrier. Look for sunglasses that provide 100% protection to both UVA and UVB light.
Why You Should Apply Sunscreen to Your Lips
With frequent sun exposure, lips can quickly demonstrate signs of aging. Collagen, which keeps our lips defined and plump, can be altered causing lips to lose volume and gain wrinkles.
Early signs of lip damage from sun exposure can cause abnormal pigmentation and sores. A day in the sun can lead to blisters and inflammation from sunburn. And unfortunately, even one bad sunburn to kids can put them at risk for cancers later in life.
Skin cancer of the lip is not uncommon. When it occurs, there is a higher chance for cancer to occur on the lower lip due to its greater exposure to sunlight. Males are much more likely to get skin cancer than women (ladies, hoping you will share this with your men!).
Prevention needs to start early. While many people are aware of the general need for sunscreen, very few actually apply any sun protection to their lips. To protect your lips, apply a lip balm with at least SPF 15. Studies have shown that despite the listed SPF rating, the actual rating is much lower. Why? Most of us do not apply the lip product as frequently or thickly as required to get the listed SPF protection. So slather that stuff on!
One product I have been using religiously is this tinted lip treatment with SPF 15. I started applying this in the fall and noticed my lips stayed hydrated through the winter months. With a thick application, it adds a little tint to lips. Because of my love for this product, I have accumulated this in five shades! My most frequently used shade is Bloom.
On my wishlist is a higher SPF product as we enter the summer months: this lip balm with SPF 30. It includes Vitamin C and E, both of which can be beneficial for the skin and post-sun exposure.
About the outfit:
Kick your average maxi dress up a notch with this summery floral maxi dress. The top half is elegant with cascading ruffles and delicate fabric. I love the bare shoulder and tailored waist for its feminine fit. The dress has a tie in back with keyhole detail so I paired with a white bandeau. This dress is fancy enough to be worn to an outdoor wedding or casual when paired with sandals.
If you like these Sunday Sun Day posts, be sure to subscribe to emails or read last week’s post about taking a pill that can be protective for your skin.
Live your life joyfully so,
Ashley
ps Bonus tip: Sunscreen products with SPF 30 or greater may be covered in your Health Savings Account! Keep receipts for redemption.
Save this graphic to Pinterest to remember important guidelines!
