Do we need sunscreen on the lips, too?

For the past years, there has been a great appreciation for applying sunscreen or sun protection factor (SPF) on the skin, especially with local and international brands incorporating this key aspect into their products.

But if you're new in the skincare scene, here's the 101 on why sunscreen is essential, as told by registered and licensed dermatopathologist Dr. Erin Tababa-Santos during Issy & Co.'s skincare workshop earlier this month.

According to Dr. Erin, who goes by the username @thenerdyderma on socials, there are two reasons why sunscreen is essential in our daily routine. First, cosmetic-wise, it helps reduce the appearance of fine lines, sun spots, and dark spots.

According to Dr. Erin, if you have a medical condition like melasma or you're actively treating acne, "those dark spots [from those skin conditions] are prevented from coming out," and the ones that you already have on the face will fade faster with the help of sunscreen.

Meanwhile, on the medical side, Dr. Erin added that Filipinos are prone to developing skin cancer with the type of climate we have in the Philippines, which is like summer all year round.

"The sun or the [harmful] UV rays can trigger skin damage and in the long run, pwede siya maging risk [to developing] skin cancer," the doctor said, adding that the use of sunscreen could protect us from those severe risks.

Now, for the multi-million dollar question, is SPF necessary on the lips too?

Without batting an eyelash, Dr. Erin answered, "Of course! Kasi, it's also skin."

"And compared to our cheeks, lips is actually thinner, so dapat 'di natin siya maiiwan [when applying sunscreen]," she added.

Understanding that Filipinos have limited to no access to lip products with sunscreen, local homegrown brand Issy & Co. introduces Solar Balm—a hybrid lip balm and sunscreen formulated with SPF 30 PA+++ which offers hours of sun protection on the lips.

The new product also promises to lock in lip hydration and moisture with its jojoba seed oil and meadowfoam seed oil ingredients as main emollients.

The Solar Balm, which retails for PHP349, comes in two finishes: glow, which leaves a glossy sheen on the lips, and natural with its semi-matte finish. – RC, GMA News