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here’re people who struggle with dark lips despite being non-smokers. You may be surprised to learn that smoking is not the only cause of dark lips. As a matter of fact, many factors can contribute to this frustrating cosmetic issue. Dark lips result from many factors, some of which aren’t popular. Here, we’ll explore the causes of dark lips and offer helpful tips on how to prevent and treat them.
If your lips are noticeably darker than the surrounding skin, you’ve got dark lips. This can be due to hyperpigmentation, which is the overproduction of melanin in the skin. Dark lips can also appear dry, cracked, or chapped, which can further contribute to their bad appearance. There are many misconceptions about what causes dark lips, such as the belief that it only affects smokers or individuals who are ill. However, this is far from the truth. Other factors such as sun exposure, hormonal changes, certain medications, and even genetics, can also play a role in the development of this condition. Let’s discuss the details.
What causes dark lips?
Various factors can cause dark lips, such as genetics, sun exposure, hormonal changes, medications, and lifestyle habits.
#1. Genetics
Dark lips may run in families, and individuals with naturally dark skin may also have darker lips. If your granny, parent, or distant relative had dark lips, it might be that you are more likely to go the same route due to your genetic makeup.
#2. Sun exposure
Excessive sun exposure can cause darkening of the lips. The lips are delicate and prone to sunburn, which can lead to hyperpigmentation.
#3. Hormonal changes
Pregnancy, menstruation, or menopause can also cause darkening of the lips. This is due to the increase in melanin production during these periods.
#4. Medications
Certain medications, such as chemotherapy drugs, antipsychotics, and antibiotics, can cause darkening of the lips as a side effect.
#5. Lifestyle habits
Smoking is an obvious lifestyle choice that darkens the lips. If you’re not one, then other habits like overconsumption of coffee, tea, or wine can be the culprits. You could become easily dehydrated, and this can also cause dark lips; which in turn can lead to dry and chapped lips.
How do I prevent dark lips?
If you are interested in preventing black lips, here are some measures to take note of:
- Avoid sun exposure: Since excessive sunlight can cause hyperpigmentation, one of the best ways to prevent dark lips is to avoid sun exposure. You can do this by wearing a lip balm with SPF or by wearing a hat when you are outside.
- Use a lip balm with SPF: A lip balm with the right ingredients can do wonders for your lips. Using one with SPF can protect your lips from the harmful effects of the sun. Look for a lip balm with at least SPF 15.
- Stay hydrated: Drinking plenty of water can help keep your lips hydrated, supple and prevent them from drying out.
- Avoid certain lifestyle habits: Stay away from smoking and excessively drinking coffee, tea, or wine as these can cause dehydration and dry out your lips, leading to their darkening.
- Exfoliate your lips: Regular exfoliation can help remove dead skin cells and prevent your lips from getting darker. You can use an over-the-counter lip scrub or make your own using sugar and honey. (See this article on how to make your own lip scrub).
How to treat my dark lips?
If you already have dark lips, there’s still hope. There are various treatments available, including topical creams, natural remedies, and cosmetic procedures.
- Topical creams: They reduce the production of melanin, which is responsible for darkening the skin. They include hydroquinone, tretinoin, and kojic acid.
- Natural remedies: Various natural remedies can be used to treat dark lips. Some examples include lemon juice, almond oil, beetroot juice, and honey. These remedies work by exfoliating the lips and reducing pigmentation.
- Cosmetic procedures: Dark lips can also be treated with dermabrasion, chemical peels, and laser procedures. These procedures function by eliminating the outermost layers of the skin and encouraging the development of new, lighter skin cells. It is crucial to remember that these therapies might not be effective for everyone and might have negative effects. Before beginning any treatment, it is best to speak with a dermatologist.
The final take is that retaining your lips’ natural color and preventing darkening requires proper care. Always remember how crucial healthy lips are to your entire appearance. Take good care of your lips and you’ll be glad you did.
Featured image: Prostock-Studio/iStock
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