Experts Warn: Aquaphor Can Cause Severe Lip Sunburns
Joan McKenzie Wilburn, a 20-year-old from Dallas, found herself in excruciating pain after using Aquaphor, a popular petroleum-based product, on her lips during a sunny spring break trip to Mexico. Little did she know that this seemingly harmless lip balm could lead to a severe case of lip sunburn, resulting in dehydration, swelling, blisters, and even fever and chills.
The Dark Side of Aquaphor: A Cautionary Tale
Wilburn shared her harrowing experience with BuzzFeed News, recounting how her lips swelled, blistered, and bled after continuous use of Aquaphor under the scorching sun. She even compared her appearance to someone who had undergone a botched lip filler treatment, causing her extreme embarrassment. Despite the temporary illusion of “free lip injections,” Wilburn adamantly advises against using Aquaphor in sunny conditions.
The TikTok Trend Gone Wrong
In a bizarre turn of events, the internet has embraced the dangerous practice of applying Aquaphor for lip enhancement, with 2.1 billion views on TikTok showcasing users attempting the trend. Some individuals eagerly anticipate trying this method to achieve plumper lips without resorting to injections or lip plumpers. However, dermatologists and Aquaphor’s spokesperson have issued stern warnings against this risky behavior.
The Science Behind Lip Sunburns
Dermatologists caution against using petroleum-based products like Aquaphor or Vaseline on the lips without SPF protection, as they lack the necessary shield against harmful UV rays. The delicate nature of lip skin, with only three to four layers compared to 15-16 layers elsewhere, makes it more susceptible to sun damage and potential skin cancer. Chronic sun exposure can lead to conditions like actinic cheilitis and even squamous cell carcinoma, emphasizing the importance of sun safety.
Protecting Your Lips: Expert Advice
To prevent lip sunburns and related complications, experts recommend using SPF lip balms, avoiding petroleum-based products in the sun, and adopting cooling measures like cold compresses for post-sunburn relief. Additionally, maintaining hydration, applying broad-spectrum sunscreen, and refraining from peeling skin or popping blisters are crucial steps in promoting lip health and preventing skin cancer.
In conclusion, the ordeal of lip sunburns caused by Aquaphor serves as a cautionary tale, urging individuals to prioritize proper sun protection and skincare practices. Let Wilburn’s experience be a reminder to always safeguard your lips from the sun’s harmful rays and prioritize your skin’s health. Stay safe, stay protected, and never underestimate the power of sunscreen.
