Raise your hand if you think your lips are one of the prominent features of your face! But just like the rest of your body, your lips can get exposed to a hyperpigmentation problem and thus, leaving a dark effect, gloomy complexion and a somber look on your face. And no matter how much lipstick you layered on top, you can’t seem to kiss them goodbye. 

Lip pigmentation—or hyperpigmentation—is a common problem especially for Asian face, considering the erratic weather we live in, and environmental fouling surrounding us. If you’re constantly searching for remedies or the best products to treat your lip pigmentation problem, you’ve come to the right place. Beauty Insider brings you the best tips to lighten your dark lip.

(Source: unsplash)

What Is Lip Pigmentation? 

Lips darkening is a common problem faced by Asian women. And sometimes, we tend to ignore the early stages of dark-coloured lips until it is too late. Lip pigmentation is often a process which leads to a total discolouration of the lip. Ever seen those dark, purple and colourless lips on someone? Or maybe you’ve experienced those unpleasant and not-very-appealing looks on your lips? Yes, that’s total lip discolouration. 

We’ve all been born naturally with a soft, pink, luscious pout but over time, our lifestyles and habits tend to change which leads to our lips becoming cracked and dark. However, keep in mind that the reason behind lip pigmentation can be caused by two major influences—your unhealthy lifestyle habits or there could be an underlying health condition. 

What Causes Lip Pigmentation? 

Just like the rest of your skin—your lips, which also tend to be one of the most sensitive areas—can get exposed and damaged by the UV rays. And since the genesis of people of colour skin types are different from Westerners, the pigmentation is caused by the development of melanin production. But aside from sun exposure, wearing the wrong lip products or an excessive intake of tobacco can be the force behind your lip pigmentation problems. 

1. Sun Exposure 

UV rays, or ultraviolet rays are known to be one of the most dangerous factors in damaging the outer layers of your skin. And this applies heavily to your lip area as well. Sun protection or sunscreen should not only be used on your body, make sure that your lips products also consist of a heavy amount of SPF to protect your lips from sun damage. Find a lip treatment or a lip balm with at least SPF 30 in it. 

2. Excessive Smoking 

See, there’s a reason why some people can spot a heavy smoker from miles away. Just look at their lips. An excessive amount of smoking can encourage the growth of melanin around your lips. Because nicotine and chemical elements in your tobacco are shrinking and narrowing your blood flow, they starve the nutrients on your skin which leads to not only your lips, but your gums to darken as well. 

3. Medical Treatment

Certain medications or medical treatments like chemotherapy or radio-theraphy can also cause your lips to darken. When you are exposed to too many treatments or rely on certain medications, your immune system can somewhat stop your adrenal gland from creating enough essential hormones. The process can lead you to having dark lips or dark gums problems.

4. Pregnancy 

When your hormone levels are changing, so does the appearance of your body. If you are in an early stage of pregnancy and you start to notice some changes in your features, it is completely normal. Not only do you notice dark patches on your lips, but also around your nipples and cheek areas. The state of your skin could turn back to normal after giving birth. 

(Source: Unsplash)

How To Lighten Dark Lips? 

Having dark lips is such a turn off, right? But as we explained earlier, while some people develop discoloration on the lips due to lifestyle factors, some may face it due to underlying health conditions, which is medical treatment or medications. 

So, you could or could not treat your lip pigmentation problems—depending on the factors—but hey, there’s no harm trying, right? The best part is, instead of investing in expensive products that may contain harmful chemicals, why not try a safer approach which is a home remedy? 

1. Coconut Oil 

Known to help restore moisture into your skin, provide hydration and bring elasticity, Coconut Oil is one of the most good ingredients in aiding your discoloration and chapped lips. You can apply the coconut oil straight away to your lips or find a lip balm that contains coconut oil extract. For natural use, before you go to bed at night, just dab some coconut oil all over your lips, careful not to swallow the product! 

2. Aloe Vera 

Aloe Vera contains aloin, it is literally a powerful force to fixing any dried out skin cells or hyperpigmentation. When applied directly to your lip, aloe vera can help nourish your skin to the deepest layers. Just like coconut oil, you can dab some aloe vera extract on your lips and leave it on overnight. The next morning, you will wake up with a more luscious and kissable pout!

3. Cucumber Slice

Yes, not only cucumber can assist with depuffing dark eyes, but also brighten your lips. Cucumbers are naturally rich in water, so they provide total moisture and hydration for the sake of your skin health. Here’s a tip: cut a few slices of cucumber and rub them all over your lips. You can also blend them with water and apply the paste right on to your lips. Your choice!

(Source: Unsplash)

4. Honey & Lemon

A hydration citrus combined with a total hydration honey? Your lips will thank us. For this remedy, add one tablespoon of honey and one tablespoon of lemon water in a bowl. Mix them together until the paste becomes thick. Directly apply to your lips and leave it for about 30 minutes before rinsing off with lukewarm water. Keep doing this as often as you can and you will see the difference it makes to your lips. You’re welcome. 

5. Strawberries 

Berries are known to provide Vitamin C and act as antioxidant remedies. Follow these steps: Smash a few strawberries (or if you want, you can blend them, but make sure the paste is not too runny), add some oil of your choice (coconut oil, olive oil or jojoba oil), and mix them altogether. Apply it on your lips for about an hour or so. Rinse with lukewarm water. 

6. Turmeric Powder 

Famous among the Indians, turmeric powder has antiseptic remedies which can help you achieve the brighter skin you desire. To create an antidote for dark lips, mix the turmeric powder with milk, make sure the paste thickens before gently massage them for about three to five minutes. Once dried, rinse them off. 

7. Sugar Exfoliator 

Okay, there’s a reason why most lip scrub and exfoliator products are made of sugar. Because believe it or not, sugar can help eliminate dead skin cells and thus, stimulates blood flow and enhances skin renewal. Bringing all those luminosity back to your skin. To create your own lip scrub, just mix some sugar with an oil of your choice. Swipe it all on your lips and kiss them dark lips goodbye! 

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