Fashion Q&A

Q: My sister has this wild idea that if you wear lip gloss in the sun, your lips will get sunburned. I don't see how, do you?

A: That's actually not so wild an idea. Because your lips do not produce melanin, the pigment in the skin that acts as a natural sunscreen, they are defenseless against the sun's ultraviolet rays. Applying clear, shiny lip gloss is rather like holding a magnifying glass to your lips: It magnifies the damaging effects of the sun.

Prolonged exposure without protection can lead to skin cancer of the lips, which can be fatal because it spreads by way of lymphatic drainage to the lungs and other vital organs. To protect your lips from UV exposure, follow these tips:

--Layer lip gloss over a lip balm that contains sun protection.

--Use lipstick with a built-in SPF (sun protection factor) of 15 or higher and a matte finish.

--Apply SPF cosmetics, including lip products, at least 20 minutes before going out in the sun to give the active ingredients time to take effect.

--Wear a broad-brimmed hat that shades your entire face.

--Avoid sun exposure between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m., when the sun's rays are strongest.

Q: My husband and I will attend a "destination wedding" in Mazatlan, Mexico, in October. The invitation indicates the late-afternoon ceremony will be on the beach, and the outdoor reception will be on an adjacent seaside terrace. The only mention of attire is at the bottom of the invitation, where it says, "Bring your flip-flops!" What should we wear? And how cold will it be? I understand it is fairly chilly there in October.

A: Mazatlan is on Mexico's Gold Coast, where the climate is tropical and the lifestyle laid-back. Average temperatures in October are about 81 degrees Fahrenheit, several degrees warmer during the day and a bit cooler at night, when the sea breeze kicks in. October also is the start of the dry season, so no need to pack rain gear.

The reference to the beach and flip-flops on the wedding invitation suggests casual attire would be appropriate — a summer dress or a skirt and blouse for you, with perhaps a light wrap for later in the evening, and a tropical shirt or guayabera paired with linen or cotton pants for your husband. But to be on the safe side, why not ask the bride or her mother for suggestions?

And here's a tip for all you couples planning destination weddings or unconventional nuptials: Give your guests some what-to-wear guidance. A simple "suggested attire" enclosure with the invitation or a few hints on your wedding Web site is all that's needed.