3 simple ways to get rid of dark, pigmented lips

3 simple ways to get rid of dark, pigmented lips

There is natural variation between people in their lip colour. A pigment called melanin gives the skin its colour.

Less melanin creates a lighter skin tone, whereas more melanin means a darker skin tone. If the skin begins producing more melanin than usual, it can lead to hyperpigmentation.

Hyperpigmentation causes patches of skin to develop that are darker than the skin around them. A common example of hyperpigmentation is age spots. This condition is related to sun exposure, and many people believe it to be harmless. It can affect almost any area of the body, including the lips.

Lip balm with Sun protection factor

Sun exposure without protection causes an increase in the production of melanin. Our bodies respond this way because the melanin is trying to protect our cells from sun damage. Invest in a lip balm which contains a Sun Protection Factor (SPF) of at least 30. It should be reapplied every two to three hours for optimal protection from the sun’s rays.

Aloe vera gel

If you can get your hands on the raw plant, you can use raw aloe vera gel straight from it.

How aloe vera gel works is through a compound in the gel which inhibits melanin production. On a daily basis, apply a thin layer of the gel onto your lips, and then rinse it off once it has dried. Remember to moisturise your lips with an SPF 30 lip balm afterwards.

While using the raw plant, you need to be careful it can get bitter.

Also Read: Benefits of using Rosewater for the skin

Tumeric

Turmeric acts as a melanin inhibitor which will help alleviate the appearance of hyperpigmentation on your lips.

Mix together a small amount of turmeric with milk to create a paste and apply it onto your lips. Rinse it off after about five minutes and follow it up with a lip balm containing SPF 30.

Hydrate

Make sure to stay hydrated. This is the only way of avoiding dry and chirped lips which can really look bad on a person.