Sun Damaged Lips

Actinic Cheilitis (Sun Damaged Lips)

Concerned About Persistent Dry or Scaly Lips?

Actinic cheilitis, also known as ‘surfer’s lips,’ is caused by long-term sun exposure and can lead to rough, discoloured, or cracked lips. As a precancerous condition, early detection and treatment are essential to reduce the risk of skin cancer.

About Actinic Cheilitis

Actinic cheilitis or ‘surfers lips’ is the lip form of actinic keratosis (sun spots) and is due to chronic sun exposure.

It presents as persistently rough, scaly or cracked lips, subtle white discolouration, or blurring of the border of the lips. It is relatively common in fair skinned adults who have had a significant amount of cumulative UV exposure.

Actinic chelitis is to considered be ‘pre-cancerous’ and illustrates an increased risk of squamous cell carcinoma (SCC).

If left untreated the risk of developing a skin cancer on the lip is about 6-10%. SCC’s on the lips are 11 x more likely to metastasise than SCC’s in other areas. Therefore actinic cheilitis is important to detect and treat early.

at HCDL we specialise in Preventable therapies to reduce your long term risk of skin cancer

carbon dioxide laser is the most effective non-invasive treatment for sun damaged lips.

Before & Afters: Real patient results at HCDL

Why Treat actinic cheilitis with Carbon dioxide (CO₂) laser

Targeted Treatment for Actinic Cheilitis

Carbon dioxide (CO₂) laser therapy offers a precise and effective approach to treating actinic cheilitis. The laser selectively removes damaged tissue from the vermilion border, reducing the risk of progression to squamous cell carcinoma while preserving healthy surrounding skin. This method not only addresses the medical concern but also enhances the cosmetic appearance of the lips.

Laser Vermillionectomy: A Minimally Invasive Alternative

Laser vermillionectomy using CO₂ laser allows for controlled, layer-by-layer removal of the affected lip surface. Unlike traditional surgical vermillionectomy, which requires sutures and results in a longer recovery period, laser treatment promotes natural re-epithelialisation with minimal scarring. It offers patients a more refined aesthetic result with less discomfort and downtime.

Expert Dermatologist-Led Care for Better Outcomes

When performed by a qualified dermatologist, CO₂ laser treatment is tailored to the patient’s skin type, extent of sun damage, and overall health. Dermatologists offer expert diagnosis, safe laser parameters, and comprehensive aftercare—including monitoring for recurrence or further sun damage. This specialist-led approach ensures better clinical outcomes, a lower risk of complications, and optimal long-term lip health. Medicare rebates are available for eligible patients when performed by a Dermatologist.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is laser vermillionectomy?

This is a procedure where the upper surface skin of the lip is removed with a resurfacing laser removing the precancerous cells. There is no surgical excision (cutting or stitches) with this method. This procedure is performed by your dermatologist in one session, under local anaesthetic and takes approximately 45 minutes in total. A surgical vermilionectomy is surgical removal (excision) of the entire lower lip. The inner part of the lip (the wet lip) is folded back to re-create a ‘new’ lower lip. This procedure is performed by a plastic surgeon in hospital and most often requires a general anaesthetic or sedation.

How is laser vermillionectomy performed?

The procedure is performed over several steps and takes approximately 45 minutes in total:

Anaesthetic is used to numb the area prior
Resurfacing laser is used to remove several superficial layers of the lip, the amount removed depends on degree of lip damage present
Infrared LED light therapy performed post laser to enhance recovery and outcomes
Follow-up with HCDL nurse on approximately day 2 to monitor healing and recovery and further LED light therapy

Recovery takes around 5-10 days depending on the depth of lip treated.

Can actinic cheilitis be prevented?

The risk of actinic chelitis can be reduced by minimizing exposure and protecting your lips from ultraviolet (UV) rays. Measures such as avoiding peak UV periods outdoors, applying a lip balm with SPF50+, hats, protective clothing will help reduce the rate of development.

Does actinic cheilitis recur?

It is important to understand that in sun damaged lips and skin it is normal for sun spots to slowly return over time and re-treatment may be needed. This interval is different for everyone. `

What is the cost of CO2 laser vermillionectomy?

The cost to have this procedure depends on the degree of lip damage and amount of skin that needs to be removed with the laser . Costs are discussed during your consultation with your Dermatologist. A Medicare rebate is available for patients who have biopsy proven actinic chelitis and ranges from $405-517. The fee also includes your two LED sessions, follow-up on day 2 and post laser lip care pack.

How do I book in for treatment?

Book in for a consultation with one of our dermatologists. Your dermatologist will discuss your treatment goals with you during your consult. The results will vary depending on your age, degree of sun damage and skin type, as well as what parameters your doctor or nurse uses. For more information about this procedure, including costs for the consultation and treatment contact our team on (02) 4003 7693.

Our team will create a thorough treatment plan tailored to you.

Our Dermatologists and Nurses are here to help you! Our team perform a thorough and expert consultation to help you address a variety of skin concerns and discuss your skincare in detail, alongside the suitability of our cosmetic and laser-based treatments.