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Reading 2 min.
in collaboration with
Dr Gérald Kierzek (Medical Director of Doctissimo)
Your lips are also constantly exposed to the sun and external factors, and can end up on fire. Dr. Gérald Kierzek details the different possible causes and how to protect them.
We don’t think about it much in our daily lives, and yet our mouth and lips are also vulnerable and constantly exposed to external factors. So, when our mouth is particularly red and inflamed, especially in summer, what happens?
A painful sunburn
The first reason could be sunburn, located on the lips that you have not protected or have barely protected.
“Excessive exposure to the sun’s UV rays can cause painful sunburn on the lips, making them red, swollen and sensitive. Lips are particularly vulnerable because they don’t have melanin to naturally protect them.” explains Dr. Gérald Kierzek, medical director of Doctissimo.
What do sunburned lips look like? They can look like several things:
- Severe redness;
- A swelling;
- Blisters, filled with fluid due to exposure to the sun;
- Severe pain that makes it difficult to eat, drink, or speak;
- An itch;
- Acute dryness, peeling and even scabbing as the burn begins to heal.
Oral herpes
Sunburn isn’t the only cause of a red, sore mouth. Cold sores, or cold sores, caused by the herpes simplex virus, can also cause painful swelling and inflammation of the lips, along with small blisters and tingling. “Herpes is very contagious and the lesions usually appear on the lower lip.” warns our expert.
Other factors that cause lip irritation
Other causes can also intervene to make your mouth on fire:
- Food or cosmetic allergies;
- Repeated licking or biting of the lips;
- Cold, wind or dry air;
- Fungal infections such as angular cheilitis;
- Trauma or mechanical irritation (dental appliance)
If you have persistent inflammation of the lips, don’t hesitate: the area is small, but deserves the best care.
“It is important to see a doctor to identify the cause and get appropriate treatment. This may include antivirals for herpes, moisturizers and protectants for sunburn, or antifungals for infections.” recalls our expert.
Finally, remember to protect your lips on a daily basis, especially in summer, under the sun. To do this, don’t skimp on products. According to dermatologist Azadeh Shirazi, consulted by Well And Good, in the heart of summer, lips must be as well preserved as the rest of the face:
- Wear sunscreen or lip balm SPF 30 or higher;
- Otherwise, put sunscreen on your lips;
- Wear a wide-brimmed hat.
And above all, avoid shiny balms or glosses without SPF.”The shine of these products amplifies the sun’s UV rays and intensifies the degree of damage.” You have been warned.