What is lip pigmentation?
Natural lip colour varies a lot from person to person, and naturally darker lips are normal and need no treatment. Lip pigmentation means a change: lips that have darkened over time, or patches that are darker than the rest of the lip.
It can show up as:
- An overall darkening of the lips
- Darker patches or an uneven border
- Dark spots on one area of the lip
- Dry, darker lips that look dull
What causes lip pigmentation?
Lip pigmentation has many possible causes, which is why it's worth understanding yours:
- Sun exposure: one of the most common causes. Lips are often forgotten when applying sunscreen.
- Smoking: long-term smoking is linked to darker lips and gums.
- Lip licking and dryness: constant licking dries and irritates the lips.
- Lip products: some lipsticks, balms or toothpastes can cause low-grade allergic or irritant reactions that lead to darkening.
- Hormones: melasma can sometimes extend to the upper lip area.
- Medicines and health conditions: some medicines, vitamin deficiencies and medical conditions can affect lip colour.
- Genetics: some people naturally have more pigment in their lips.
In rare cases, a dark spot on the lip can be a sign of a condition that needs medical attention. That's why any new or changing spot should be checked.
How dermatologists treat lip pigmentation
A dermatologist will first look for the cause, for example ruling out an allergy to a lip product, a medicine side effect or a medical condition. Treatment may then include:
- Removing the trigger: stopping an irritating product, quitting smoking or treating a deficiency.
- Topical treatments: gentle lightening products suited to delicate lip skin.
- In-clinic procedures: for stubborn pigmentation, a dermatologist may suggest options such as lasers or gentle peels.
Lip skin is delicate, so strong acids and harsh treatments aren't suitable for home use. Lip pigmentation tends to fade gradually, so expect steady improvement rather than quick results.
Daily care that helps
Protect your lips from the sun
Use a lip balm or lipstick with SPF 30 or higher, and reapply through the day.
Keep lips moisturised
A hydrating, fragrance-free balm helps protect the lip barrier.
Stop licking your lips
Saliva dries lips out and can make darkening worse.
Check your lip products
If darkening started after a new lipstick, balm or toothpaste, stop using it and see if lips improve.
Avoid harsh scrubs
Over-exfoliating can irritate lips and make pigmentation worse.
Don't smoke
Quitting helps your lips and your overall health.
