Natural Ways To Lighten Dark Upper Lip
Published Jan 11, 2021
Does your dark upper lip bother you? Well, the first thing you should know is that it is usually should not be a cause for concern. However, discoloration of the upper lip can be embarrassing for some.
If you have an awkward dark upper lip, here are some awesome, proven, and tested natural ways you can try to lighten them.
What Causes Dark Upper Lips?
The most common cause of lip discoloration is hyperpigmentation. Hyperpigmentation happens when there is excessive production of melanin – the pigment responsible for one’s skin color. (e.g., tanning of skin when exposed to sunlight.) While it is harmless, it is sometimes an indicator of another medical condition. Here are the causes of hyperpigmentation:
- Pregnancy: Due to hormone level changes, pregnant women are prone to hyperpigmentation.
- Medications: Several drugs can cause hyperpigmentation, such as cytotoxic agents, analgesics, anticoagulants, antimicrobials, antiretrovirals, and many more.
- Smoking: Exposure to nicotine can result in lip discoloration.
- Sun exposure: Exposure to sunlight stimulates the melanocyte-stimulating hormone, which then stimulates the melanin to produce to protect your skin from UV light.
- Medical Condition: Some diseases can make your lips look pale and dark such as Anemia.
How To Lighten Dark Lips Naturally
Citrus Fruit
Grab an orange or lemon, or whatever citrusy fruit you may find at home, and then rub its juicy part all over your lips. Leave it until the next morning, then rinse it with cool water. Wait until you see your desired result. Study says that citrus fruits have a substance that can inhibit the production of melanin.
Turmeric
Turmeric is famous for its ability to treat several skin problems. That being said, it is also a powerful tool in lightening dark areas of the body as it can inhibit the formation of melanin. Before bedtime, mix one teaspoon of turmeric powder with three tablespoons of lime juice until it forms into a thick paste. Apply it over your lips and rinse the next morning with lukewarm water.
Aloe Vera
Aloe vera is popular in the cosmetic industry. It has been used by many as an effective moisturizer in the face and body. But, unknown to many, aloe vera can also be used in treating dark lips. Aloe vera has skin lightening properties called aloin and aloesin, which are proven to have promising results in inhibiting melanin formation.
Apple Cider Vinegar
Apple cider vinegar contains acetic acid, which helps in lightening pigmentation. But before applying it, make sure you mix it with water first to avoid the unwanted and undesirable result.
Cosmetics
If natural home remedies do not work for you, then your other option is to try a different approach that is approved by medical experts. Here are medical treatments you can use to lighten your dark upper lip.
- Chemical Peel
By applying chemical solutions, especially glycolic acid – the most gentle exfoliant for the lips – the top skin layer of your mouth exfoliates, which then promotes the growth of new and unpigmented skin. A dermatologist must do this procedure as the skin on your lips is among the most delicate on your face, and chemical solutions might burn and easily damage it.
- Lip Pigmentation Laser Treatment
Lip lightening laser treatment is a non-invasive treatment used in reducing the darkness of the lips. The heat energy of the laser targets the melanin and reduce its formation. It also exfoliates the top layer of the lips and gives it a new and more natural-looking color.
- Lightening Creams
Lightening creams are also effective in treating dark upper lip, and most of them can be bought over the counter. These topical medications contain skin-lightening chemicals such as hydroquinone and kojic acid.
How To Prevent Your Upper Lip from Darkening
- Apply sunscreen with high SPF
- Avoid too much exposure from the sun
- Apply moisturizer on your lips
- Don’t smoke
Bottomline
The skin of the lips is one of the most delicate parts of your face. And while hyperpigmentation should not be a cause for concern, it can make a person feel embarrassed and lose confidence over time.
Several home remedies can lighten your dark upper lip. But if your case is more severe, you might want to consider medical treatments like the ones mentioned above. However, be sure that these procedures will be conducted by a professional to ensure safety.
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About The Author
As a self described fanatic of beauty and fashion, Judy Ponio loves to write blogs about style and beauty lifehacks. Her blogs are full of useful knowledge surrounding trends in the fashion and beauty world.
