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Causes and Treatment For Dark Skin Around The Mouth

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Your skin is a canvas that tells the story of your health and lifestyle. However, if you’ve noticed dark skin around the mouth, it might be leaving you puzzled and self-conscious. In this article, we’ll unravel the reason why the skin around your mouth is dark, exploring causes, effective remedies, prevention strategies, and ultimately, restoring confidence in your skin’s natural radiance.

Dealing with hyperpigmentation around the mouth can be a frustrating experience, but fear not – you’re not alone, and there are effective solutions. In this comprehensive article, we’ll delve into the causes of hyperpigmentation, strategies for prevention, and targeted treatments by dermatologists to help you achieve a radiant, even skin tone.

What are the reasons for dark skin around the mouth?

Let us see the causes of dark skin around the mouth.

Hyperpigmentation:

Dark skin around the mouth regularly stems from hyperpigmentation, an overproduction of melanin brought on via elements like sun exposure, inflammation, or hormonal fluctuations.

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Post-inflammatory Hyperpigmentation:

Battle scars from acne or pores and skin inflammation can result in inflammatory hyperpigmentation, leaving continual darkish marks.

Hormonal Imbalance:

Hormones play a widespread role. Pregnancy, menstruation, or hormonal imbalances can affect melanin production, affecting the skin around your mouth.

Excessive Sun Exposure:

Excessive sun exposure is a key participant. UV rays stimulate melanin synthesis, causing darkening around your mouth. Applying a broad-spectrum sunscreen is important to avoid pigmentation.

Smoking:

Smoking isn’t just dangerous for your lungs; it can additionally contribute to dark skin around the mouth. Chemicals in tobacco disrupt blood flow, collagen production, intensifying pores and skin discolouration.

Weather Conditions:

Dark spots around the lips can also result from sun exposure, skin darkening from burns, or any other type of injury. If you lick your lips and the region around them too often in really cold conditions, it can discolor and darken your skin.

Certain medications:

Certain medications have the tendency to induce pigmentation, which can potentially have an impact on the lips and surrounding tissue. Among these are anti-malarial drugs and tricyclic antidepressants. Hyperpigmentation is another adverse consequence that can result from chemicals found in some ointments.

Two more dangerous causes of pigmentation are hemochromatosis and Addison’s illness. Dark spots around the mouth, in the knuckles and toes, around the lips, within the cheekbones, and in joints such as the knees and elbows can all be signs of Addison’s disease.

Vitamin Deficiency:

Hyperpigmentation of the skin is linked to deficiencies of vitamins B12 and D. A key contributing factor to melasma in adults was shown to be a vitamin D deficiency in a 2018 study.

Trauma To The Skin

Hyperpigmentation in brown or black areas may appear after the skin heals if you have a significant accident, acne outbreak, burn, or infection around your mouth. The accompanying discolouration typically goes away after a few months. Lip balms and toothpaste can also trigger contact dermatitis, which can result in this kind of discolouration.

Who is more prone to have dark skin around the mouth?

The general risk of hyperpigmentation is higher in people with dark skin. The face, chest, and other regions most exposed to UV radiation may develop more spots as you get older.

If you don’t use sunscreen regularly, you run a higher chance of sun-damaged skin leading to discolouration around your mouth. It is possible that during the summer, any discoloration around the mouth gets worse. A greater amount of sun exposure is probably to blame, as it can increase melanin production and aggravate pigmentation.

Medical Treatment For Dark Skin Around The Mouth

Let us see how to get rid of dark skin around the mouth.

dark skin around the mouth-treatment

Exfoliation

Exfoliation is a crucial step in skincare, especially for individuals with dark skin experiencing hyperpigmentation around the mouth. Regular exfoliation helps to slough off dead skin cells, promoting cellular turnover and revealing fresh, even-toned skin. For dark skin, this process can be particularly beneficial as it aids in reducing the appearance of hyperpigmentation, dark spots, and uneven skin tone.

OTC Skin-Brightening Creams

Creams that brighten the skin can be useful in lessening the dark circles around the mouth. Seek for components like niacinamide, arbutin, glabridin (a licorice extract), kojic acid, vitamin C, grape seed extract, azelaic acid, or curcumin. They prevent tyrosinase production, which is necessary for the skin to produce melanin. Consult a doctor for proper instructions.

Medically Prescribed Ointments

See a dermatologist if you’ve tried other treatments and nothing has helped. A doctor could recommend a hydroquinone-containing ointment. The black patches vanish more quickly (in a week or so) when this medication inhibits the cells that produce pigment and slows down the formation of tyrosinase.

Laser Treatment

dark skin around the mouth-laser toning

Laser treatment for dark skin around the mouth can be an effective solution to address hyperpigmentation and uneven skin tone. Lasers work by targeting excess melanin in the skin, breaking it down and stimulating the body’s natural healing processes.

Pigmentation is treated with one specific procedure called a Fraxel laser therapy. It is a tiny laser that is applied topically to encourage the regeneration of collagen and elastin. It works well in lightening dark spots and resurfacing the skin tone.

Chemical Peels

dark skin around the mouth-chemical peels

Chemical peels are a skincare treatment that involves the application of a chemical solution to the skin, which causes controlled exfoliation and peeling. This process helps to remove dead skin cells, stimulate cell turnover, and promote the growth of new, healthier skin. When addressing the dark skin around the mouth and hyperpigmentation, chemical peels can be particularly beneficial.

AHAs, like glycolic acid, work on the skin’s surface, promoting gentle exfoliation and aiding in improving texture and tone. BHAs, such as salicylic acid, penetrate deeper into the pores, making them effective for addressing issues like acne-related pigmentation.

How To Prevent Dark Skin Around The Mouth?

Preventing dark skin around the mouth involves a combination of protective measures, skincare practices, and lifestyle choices. Here are some tips to help minimize the risk of pigmentation around the mouth area:

Sun Protection:

UV radiation is a major contributor to pigmentation issues. Use a broad-spectrum sunscreen with at least SPF 30 daily, even on cloudy days, and reapply every two hours when exposed to sunlight. Consider using a lip balm with SPF to protect the skin around the mouth.

Avoid Harsh Scrubbing:

Gentle exfoliation is beneficial, but aggressive scrubbing can irritate the skin and worsen pigmentation. Choose mild exfoliating products and use them in moderation, following the recommended guidelines.

Use Topical Antioxidants:

Incorporate skincare products containing antioxidants like vitamin C into your routine. These can help protect the skin from environmental damage and contribute to a more even skin tone.

Maintain a Healthy Diet:

Eat a balanced diet rich in antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals. Foods like fruits, vegetables, and whole grains can support overall skin health.

Manage Hormonal Changes:

Hormonal fluctuations, especially during pregnancy or while taking oral contraceptives, can contribute to pigmentation. If relevant, discuss these concerns with a healthcare provider.

Choose Gentle Skincare Products:

Avoid harsh chemicals and irritating ingredients that can exacerbate pigmentation. Opt for products formulated for sensitive skin and those addressing hyperpigmentation concerns.

Stay Hydrated:

dark skin around the mouth-stay hydrated

Proper hydration supports skin health. Drink adequate water daily to help maintain skin moisture and elasticity.

Address Allergies:

Allergic reactions to certain toothpaste, lip balms, or other oral care products can cause pigmentation issues. Be mindful of any changes in skincare or oral care products and consult with a dermatologist if needed.

Regular Checkups:

Keep an eye on any changes in pigmentation and consult with a dermatologist if you notice unusual discoloration or if pigmentation concerns persist.

Avoid Smoking:

Smoking can contribute to skin damage and pigmentation issues. Quitting smoking can have positive effects on overall skin health.

When To Consult A Dermatologist?

With time or after stopping certain medications, some types of discolouration around the mouth may go away. A dermatologist may be necessary for the treatment of more persistent causes, including sunspots and melasma.

Conclusion

The adventure to brighter, greater even-toned skin around your mouth involves knowledge of the causes, enforcing powerful treatments, and adopting preventative measures. By addressing hyperpigmentation, hormonal impacts, and way of life factors, you can unveil a radiant complexion that sincerely displays your inner energy. Consult with a dermatologist on MFine for personalised guidance on your course to skin self-belief.