How a Popular Cosmetic Could be Causing Health Problems
The majority of people are aware that they need to apply a good quality sunscreen to areas such as the back, legs and neck when they head off to the beach in summer. However, the same individuals might not be aware that the delicate skin on the lips needs the same, if not more, protection. Recent research has shown that women who apply lip gloss before leaving the house could be putting themselves at an even greater risk.
The Link between Lip Gloss and Skin Cancer
According to the April 2008 study, “Solar Radiation, Lip Protection and Lip Cancer Risk” by Janice M. Pogoda and Susan Preston-Martin, applying lip gloss without an SPF can cause an increased number of UV rays to penetrate directly through the skin, instead of being reflected off the skin’s surface. At worst, it is thought that the resulting skin damage can lead to potentially fatal forms of skin cancer.
Pharmacies, along with other health and beauty professionals have started to take note of such research. In New Zealand, Care Chemist, the country’s fastest growing community pharmacy group, has launched a campaign to highlight the link between skin cancer and wearing lip gloss in the sun. All 24 stores are involved in the initiative. In the USA, dermatologists such as Dr. Christine Brown, based at Baylor University Medical Centre in Dallas are also supporting the studies and are trying to educate the public on how susceptible lips can be to the harsh rays of the sun.
Why and How Does Lip Gloss Encourage Sun Damage?
Many women assume that lip gloss will create enough of a barrier to protect their skin from the sun. However, this is simply not the case. The ultra-shine of the glosses causes a magnifying effect, which actually attracts the sun.
Sun damage can also lead to premature ageing, making the already thin skin on the lips even thinner, which can cause rips and tears. Brown spots and actinic keratosis, a small scaly patch of skin that can morph into a wart-like bump, if left untreated are other possible side effects.
How to Main a Healthy, Attractive Pout
Fortunately, there a number of things that can be done to protect the skin, without giving up entirely on fashion and beauty.
- Wear a lip gloss containing sun block of at least SPF 30. Failing that, use a layer of SPF 30 sun protection under any shiny lip glosses and balms.
- Consider using lipstick instead, preferably one containing sun screen.
- Reapply sun protection regularly, especially if swimming, sweating or outside a lot.
- Remove dead skin cells by brushing lips carefully with a toothbrush and small amount of Vaseline. This will leave lips smooth and beautiful.
- Try to avoid licking the lips as this will dry them out and remove any sun protection that has been put on.
- Apply an intensive lip moisturising product before going to bed. Dry, weathered lips will be revived overnight.
The lips are more vulnurable than skin to chronic sun damage and are also more prone to developing serious cancers. However, with some care and smart shopping, it is possible to look good in the sun without worrying about putting this delicate part of the body at risk.
Read more about skin care and beauty at Suite 101: How to Choose Eco-Friendly Beauty Products http://beauty-products.suite101.com/article.cfm/how-to-choose-eco-friendly-beauty-products
No comments:
Post a Comment