Poolside Drinks Might Be Ruining Your Sunscreen

What could be better than lounging poolside, sipping on a summer cocktail in the sunshine? All of that plus extra sun protection, considering that citrusy drinks could be sabotaging your sunscreen. As it turns out, the citric acid in your summer beach drink can actually dissolve the active ingredients in many sunscreens, leaving you vulnerable to the sun's harsh rays.

Oh, and did you add some lemon or lime garnish? Unfortunately, those citrus treats can lead to increased skin sensitivity in sunlight. “The presence of the citrus drink on the lips in the direct sunlight actually makes the skin more sensitive, which cancels out the sunscreen’s effects,” New York City dermatologist David Bank stated in a report by Allure.

So, what's a margarita loving gal to do? The trick to having your cocktail and drinking it too is in loading up on extra sun protection, especially when dealing with areas coming in contact with your sweet poolside drink (i.e. your pretty pucker). David Bank and Allure recommend SPF lip products that contain zinc oxide or titanium dioxide, as those ingredients tend to be the most resistant to summer cocktail breakdown.

Need some summer lip inspo? Check out some of these super safe, SPF lip products below for a carefree, Margaritaville summer!

Yves Saint Laurent Rouge Pur Couture SPF 15 Lipstick

With titanium dioxide and a dozen, creamy bold colors, your pucker will be protected (and fabulous) after drinks at that rooftop bar. $36

eos Smooth Lip Balm Sphere

A cult-classic that is dermatologist trusted because of its zinc oxide magic ingredient. $10.99 for a pack of four

Burt's Bees Tinted Lip Balm in Hibiscus

For the days you just want just a hint of color, but full sun protection. Plus, it has a scent bound to be just as sweet as that summer cocktail. $6.99

Nars Pure Sheer SPF Lip Treatment

A super hydrating protectant balm that was made to be layered with any of the lipsticks in your beauty arsenal. $25

Canus Goat's Milk Lip Balm

A natural, spearmint-scented breath of fresh air in a lip balm aisle full of sticky petroleum formulas. $2.49

Shiseido SPF 36 Sun Protection Lip Treatment

Who said that SPF lip balms always leave a gross, white residue? This ultra nourishing goodie from Shiseido promises to banish the tell-tale white film and replace it with pure, super SPF, moisturizing goodness. $22

Perricone MD's No Lipgloss Lipgloss

This super cool lip product actually mimics the natural color and shine of the area inside your lips, while its zinc oxide protects from the super hot sun. Perfect for your toned-down, beachy beauty look! $30

Images: samsmith/Flickr, Courtsey of Brands