Glossary entry

Photodamage.

Definition

What it means.

Skin damage caused by ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun. Lips are particularly susceptible to photodamage because they have very thin skin, no melanin for natural UV protection, and no oil glands. Chronic photodamage to the lips can cause dryness, premature aging, and actinic keratosis. Numbrrrz does not contain SPF and is not a sunscreen; use a lip SPF in the sun.

UV Protection

Shielding skin from ultraviolet radiation, which causes sunburn, premature aging, and increases skin cancer risk. Lips are particularly vulnerable to UV damage because they have thin skin and minimal melanin. Numbrrrz does not contain SPF and is not a sunscreen. For direct sun exposure, layer a mineral SPF product over Numbrrrz.

SPF (Sun Protection Factor)

A measure of how well a product protects against UVB radiation from the sun. SPF lip balms contain chemical or mineral UV filters. Numbrrrz does not include SPF, focusing instead on pure organic hydration and nourishment. For sun protection, we recommend layering a mineral SPF lip product over Numbrrrz to get both hydration and UV protection.

Oxidative Stress

A condition where the body has more free radicals than antioxidants can neutralize, leading to cell damage. In lip skin, oxidative stress causes premature aging, dryness, and reduced elasticity. Environmental factors like UV light and pollution increase oxidative stress. Antioxidants in lip care products, like the Vitamin E in Numbrrrz, help combat this damage.