The problem of dark lips, pigmented, or black is very common. And, the truth is that many of us long for soft, smooth and pink lips. If this happens to you, you are probably wondering, why do my lips darken? Why does the so-called lip discoloration occur? They could be due to lack of proper care as well as an unhealthy lifestyle. If you want to know more about why lip darkening occurs and how you can treat it, read on! Here we will tell you everything you need to know about the dark lips.
Causes of dark lips and how to avoid them
Smoke
All lip beauty tips say that nicotine causes lip darkening and lip discoloration. Otherwise, smoking is also known to cause cancer and other diseases.
The caffeine
Excessive consumption of tea and coffee can blacken the lips in addition to staining the teeth. Therefore, limit your caffeine intake to prevent your lips from turning a darker shade.
sun exposure
Sun exposure also causes darkening of the lips as there is an increased amount of melanin pigment in the lips. Be sure to use lip products with SPF/UV protectors if you’ll be spending time outdoors.
Reaction to lipsticks
Prolonged and excessive use of lipsticks and lip cosmetics, especially those of lesser quality, can also cause lip pigmentation. Use lipsticks sparingly (apply them only when you need them most) and always buy lip products from reputable brands.
Be sure to check the expiration date and don’t use expired lipsticks or lip products. Look for one or more of these ingredients in your lipsticks: shea butter, clarified butter, vitamin E, and jojoba oil. These moisturize your lips and prevent them from drying out.
Always remove lip makeup with a good lip makeup remover or olive/almond/coconut oil.
licking lips
Dermatologists advise us not to suck or lick our lips to keep them moist. If not taken care of, this will dry them out even more, leading to darkening of the lips. Even the habit of biting the lips should be avoided, as there is a risk of damaging them.
an unhealthy diet
Vitamin deficiency can also lead to lip discoloration. Therefore, maintain a healthy diet and eat plenty of fruits and vegetables. The intake of vitamin C is also essential to eliminate lip pigmentation; therefore, eat foods rich in this vitamin.
If the pigmentation of the lips is also genetic. So, in case you have black or dark lips from birth, there is not much to do except maybe a cosmetic surgery.
Tips to lighten dark lips
The treatment of hyperpigmentation is usually an aesthetic decision. Laser treatments and chemicals are often used to treat them. Many hyperpigmentation treatments work by inhibiting an enzyme that produces melanin.
However, you may be able to find a natural lip lightener that suits your needs. Here are a few you can consider:
Lemon
A 2002 study suggests that citrus peel may act as a melanin inhibitor. Every night, just before you go to sleep, cut a lemon and gently rub the juicy part on your lips. The next morning, rinse your lips with cold water. Repeat this routine every night until you see results. It may take 30 days.
Before going to bed, cut a slice of lemon and dip it in sugar. Rub your lips with the sugared lemon. The next morning, rinse your lips with warm water.
Lime
Lime is another citrus fruit that may have anti-melanin production properties. In a small bowl, mix 1 1/2 teaspoons fresh lemon juice, 1 teaspoon honey, and 1 teaspoon glycerin.
Gently apply the mixture to your lips before going to bed. Wash your lips the next morning.
Turmeric
According to a 2010 study, turmeric may act as a melanin inhibitor. In a small bowl, mix 1 tablespoon of milk and enough turmeric powder to make a paste.
With a wet fingertip, rub the paste on your lips. Leave it in place for about five minutes before gently rinsing it off with cool water. After you dry your lips, apply your favorite moisturizer.
Aloe
An older study suggests that a compound in aloe vera inhibits melanin production. Once a day, apply a thin layer of fresh aloe vera gel to your lips. Once it’s dry, rinse it off with lukewarm water.
Grenade
A 2005 study found that pomegranate extract can lighten skin hyperpigmentation. To make this remedy, make a paste with
1 tablespoon of pomegranate seeds, 1 teaspoon of rose water and 1 tablespoon of fresh dairy cream. Gently massage the paste on your lips for about three minutes, then rinse your lips with cold water. Repeat every day.
Other natural tips to treat dark or black lips:
- Apply almond oil to your lips before going to bed as it helps lighten your lips thus reducing discoloration.
- You can also mix lemon/lime juice with almond oil and apply for the same purpose.
- Daily application of cucumber juice would also help lighten dark lips.
- Another proven remedy is to regularly apply a mixture of lemon juice, glycerin, and honey and leave it overnight.
- Make a paste by mixing five medium-sized crushed strawberries and 2 teaspoons of baking soda. Gently apply this paste to your lips before bed, then rinse it off with cool water the next morning.
- In a blender, grind the beets into a fine paste. Apply beetroot paste on the lips twice a week. Leave it in place for 5 to 10 minutes, then rinse it off. Once your lips are clean and dry, apply a thin layer of Vaseline.