Shiny lips may boost skin cancer risk

If you slip a shiny lip gloss or lipstick in your purse, don't forget a tube of lip balm with a SPF factor of 30. According to this article in HealthDay, the move could lower your risk of skin cancer.

Beyond an admiring gaze, those pretty, shiny lips may be attracting negative attention -- ultraviolet rays from the sun -- which could increase your risk for skin cancer. While many of us have wisely stopped slathering baby oil on our bodies before cooking in the sun, we're still glossing our lips. A recent study revealed less than 25 percent of Americans apply sun protection on their smackers.

Luckily, you can keep the shine with a simple precautionary step. Apply a SPF30 lip balm underneath the pretty, shiny stuff. Reapply often. I don't know about you, but this is my low-supply season for SPF30 lip balm. I really have to scrounge around to find a tube. Next time you're at the pharmacy, pick up a three pack of SPF30 lip balm before heading to the lipstick aisle. Scatter them where you'll reach for them most -- in your car, in your purse, in your office desk. Set yourself up for beautiful, healthy lips this summer!