Hyper pigmentation is associated with excessive amount of melanin pigment which is responsible for the dark color of the skin. Melanin is naturally produced below the skin and is associated with the extent of exposure to the sun. There are simple ways of preventing exposure to the sun which in turn can help in reducing hyper pigmentation under the lips; however there are factors other than exposure to sun that are responsible for lip hyper pigmentation
Causes of Lip Hyper Pigmentation
Some of the common causes associated with hyper pigmentation of the lips are,
- Excessive and prolonged exposure to ultra violet radiations of the sun is the most common cause associated with hyper pigmentation under the lips
- Age spots also referred to as liver spots are relatively permanent in nature and associated with exposure to the sun.
- Hormonal changes can also result in hyper pigmentation. Hormonal changes during pregnancy or associated with use of hormone replacement therapy is associated with darkening of the skin and results in spots under the lips often referred to as melasma or chloasma
- Excessive smoking and tobacco consumption can result in darkening of the lips and associated with black spots
- Viral infections like herpes can result in dark spots on the lips, which are associated with inflammation and irritation. These spots are temporary in nature and resolve quickly after the underlying infection is under control
Lip Hyper pigmentation Treatment
There are wide ranges of treatment options available for the management of lip hyper pigmentation which includes lazer resurfacing or using chemical peels to restore the actual color of the skin. However in addition to this expensive and modern technology, there are simple home remedies that can be beneficial in reducing lip hyperpigementation,
- Local application of freshly squeezed lemon juice is considered beneficial. Lemon juice is rich in Vitamin C which is loaded with anti-oxidants and reduces dead and damaged skin. In addition, citric acid acts as strong natural bleach, which helps in restoring the normal color of the lips.
- Local application of Aloe Vera with Turmeric is considered beneficial. Turmeric has anti-septic properties while aloe provides a soothing effect on the lips. Further Aloe can manage lip chapping which is also a common cause for cracked and dark lips
- Increase the intake of fruits like lemon, lime, oranges, strawberries, etc. These fruits are loaded with Vitamin C, which helps fight free radicals and reduces skin damage. This is especially important among smokers, since they are exposed to a host of harmful toxins.
- Local application of creams containing Vitamin E and Vitamin A are very beneficial. These creams help in restoring the normal pigmentation of the lips.