Q:You've mentioned that foundation and facial powders with SPF don't really work -- is the same true of lipstick with SPF?

A: No. Lip products with SPF are significantly more effective than powders and foundation. Remember, it's not that facial makeup itself doesn't work -- rather that there is no way to apply enough of it to get the SPF stated on the label. (For example, if you applied about 14 times more powder than usual, you'd be covered. Lipstick and lip gloss are much denser than powder and foundation, though, so the average person applies much closer to what they need to apply to achieve the SPF on the label.

While we're on the topic, let me remind everyone out there how important it is to use a lip product with SPF. Lips don't produce sebum, or oil, like skin does, and that leaves them particularly susceptible to sun damage -- in the form of wrinkling, loss of volume, and, of course, skin cancer. New evidence suggests that shiny lip gloss without SPF might actually worsen sun damage to the lips by intensifying UV rays like a magnifying glass. So even if you can't abandon your favorite glossy gloss, it's crucial that you apply a layer of lip balm with SPF first.

Bottom line: A facial powder or foundation with SPF isn't going to cut it. Always use a separate sunscreen on your face. When it comes to lips, the most important thing is to use a product with SPF.

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