Although lip pigmentation is less common than hyperpigmentation, it is still something to be mindful of in terms of skincare. Since skin of color exhibits hyperpigmentation at higher frequency, most people with brown or dark complexion have dealt with it in one way or another, including pigmented lips. This includes sun spots, acne scars, and melasma. Increased melanin deposits in the lip are the source of lip pigmentation, which results in the area becoming darker. Similar to hyperpigmentation, it can be brought on by sun exposure, but other variables that affect the mouth include nutrition, smoking, and food allergies.
The good news is that there is a treatment for this disease. Dr. Ashna Pinto, a consultant dermatologist at Kaya Skin Clinic, explains the typical mistakes that people with lip pigmentation should avoid. Put away your dark lipsticks and concealers and continue reading if that’s how you’re hiding.
Inadequate water intake
To keep your body and lips moisturized throughout the day, make sure you drink enough water. Lips that are properly moisturized are less likely to get dry and crack.
Lack of exfoliation
To keep your lips smooth and free of dead skin cells, exfoliate them on a regular basis. To massage your lips and get rid of any flakiness, use a homemade mixture of sugar and honey or a mild lip scrub.
Dry lip pigmentation
Throughout the day, moisturize your lips with a nutritious lip pigmentation balm or moisturiser. Seek for products that contain moisturizing components such as hyaluronic acid, coconut oil, or shea butter.
Inadequate sun protection
Apply a lip balm with SPF before heading outside, especially during prolonged sun exposure, as lip pigmentation are prone to sun damage. This lessens the risk of sunburn, dryness, and UV-induced changes to pigmentation.
Licking your lips
While licking your lips can momentarily make them drier, it can also have the opposite effect. Because saliva disappears so quickly, your lips get more drier. Rather, use a lip balm to deliver long-lasting moisture.
Drying lip products
Certain lip pigmentation products can be drying, such as matte formulations or some long-wearing lipsticks. Choose lip products that are nourishing and moisturizing rather than dehydrating. Lip discoloration can also result from unidentified allergy to specific components in lipsticks.
Harsh makeup removers
Removing lip makeup should be done gently. After dissolving the product with a gentle makeup remover or a natural oil like coconut or almond oil, remove it with a delicate cloth or cotton pad.
Bad oral hygiene
Keeping your lips healthy and preventing infections are two benefits of practicing good oral hygiene. To maintain general oral health, brush your teeth twice a day, floss frequently, and think about using mouthwash.
Smoking
In addition to its detrimental effects on general health, smoking can alter the lip pigmentation. Giving up smoking might help your lips look better and stay healthier.
Irregular diet
Your lips’ health can be enhanced by eating a well-balanced diet high in vitamins and minerals. Consume fruits and vegetables, which are rich in antioxidants, to help preserve the natural color and vitality of your lips.
Excessive caffeine consumption
Dehydration brought on by caffeine might make your lips darker. Limiting coffee and tea consumption or drinking lots of water to counteract the drying effects of caffeine are two ways to combat this.
Using expired lip products
Old lipsticks and balms may contain microorganisms that cause skin discomfort and discoloration. It could be a good idea to routinely check lip cosmetics and replace them in accordance with their expiration dates. Additionally, be sure to keep them somewhere dry and cool for storage.
