04/17/2009

GLOSS ACT

Women know that their lips require special attention, which is why they treat them with moisturizers, lipsticks, and glosses. Dermatologists are quick to point out, however, that lip products should have a sun protection factor (SPF) in order to protect the lips’ thin skin from sun damage. In fact, using a lip gloss without an SPF may actually increase the risk of developing skin cancer because the shiny glosses may allow more of the sun’s rays to penetrate through to the skin instead of being reflected. Ninety percent of the new skin cancers diagnosed each year are squamous cell carcinomas. While not life-threatening, this form of skin cancer can be disfiguring, which is precisely not what women had in mind.

Most skin cancers can be prevented by avoiding prolonged exposure to midday sun, wearing sunscreen, and wearing protective clothing such as hats with brims. If you notice a lesion on your lips on other areas of your body, please call ELMHURST DERMATOLOGY at 630-832-2111 to schedule an evaluation of your skin. We specialize in identifying and treating a wide array of skin disorders – from surgical treatment of cancer to the medical management of skin conditions such as acne. We consider it a privilege to care for you and your family. Our practice is located at 103 N. Haven, Suite 7, Elmhurst. We accept most medical insurance, Visa, and MasterCard.

P.S. Sun damage can also leave lips thinner and wrinkled due to loss of skin elasticity.