This condition can be caused by sun damage, inflammation, and other skin injuries. lips can be dark because of may reasons including infections and vitamin deficiency, please meet your doctor for finding the cause. EJ; NCCJLSLM. It is important to take care of your lips to keep them naturally pink. Since the lips are made of skin layers as well, they also contain melanocyte cells. (3). Published 2016. To understand the cause of your darkened lips, the doctor will do the following: If the doctor suspects any lesion to be malignant, he may order a biopsy of the tissue for further diagnosis. Natural home remedies can effectively lighten your lips. However, other colors such as bluish or yellowish discoloration may also occur. Melanocytes are specialized pigment cells that produce melanin in smaller quantities than elsewhere on the skin. In addition, taking certain medication like ACE inhibitors, an injury to the face, or angioedema can cause puffy lips. Published 2005. If there is an infection, antimicrobials may be prescribed. Published 2010. de Melo Filho MR, da Silva CAD, da Rocha Dourado M, de Oliveira Pires MB, Pêgo SPB, de Freitas EM. Some component of lipstick is the most common reason. It is more likely to be seen with cheaper cosmetics that have certain dyes which are not recommended for use on human skin. (8), Dark lips can also occur as a side effect of chemotherapy or radiation therapy. The smoke from tobacco products contains a harmful black material called tar that can stain your lips to look black in color. A 2013 study Trusted Source of smokers found that all of the... Trauma or injury. Approaches to the evaluation of lip hyperpigmentation. Dehydration is one of the causes for drying of the lips and turning to dark color. Dental research journal. Are the spots on my lips indicative of cancer? Lodish MB, Stratakis CA. Published 2012. Melanosis caused by tobacco use commonly resolves on its own in 3 years after smoking cessation. Cyanosis is a serious condition that needs to be investigated further and the cause treated appropriately. Lips darkening can be a result of unhealthy habits, diet issues or medical factors. This is the reason that the lips are a pink to red color. Oral mucosa pigment changes in heavy drinkers and smokers. Lentigo is a flat brown to black spot (several spots ~plural : lentigines) that can affect the skin and lips. Are you taking contraceptive pills or any hormonal therapy? Also, the heat from the cigarettes can burn the delicate skin of vermilion zone of the lips to form black marks. It is advised to be aware of the factors that can cause darkening of the lips, such as allergens and sunlight, and avoid them. Published April 2013. Can my allergies result in hyperpigmentation of the lips? Quitting or limiting consumption of these products can … Published 2019. If you are a regular smoker or alcoholic drinker, those may be the causes of dark lips. If you spend more time outdoors then the chances of getting darker lips increases. How many glasses of water do you drink daily? There are different remedies to lighten the lip color and lip care products have also become the talk of the town. An allergic response to certain products like toothpaste, lipstick, etc. Melasma is hyperpigmentation of the skin associated with increased melanin deposition. While such changes are usually reversible, they may be symptomatic of an underlying problem. If it doesn’t, see a board-certified dermatologist. The two more common causes is contact dermatitis and atopic dermatitis both of which have an immune-mediated hypersensitivity (allergy) component to it. Familial cancer. Therefore, it is imperative to consult a doctor if you notice the development of dark spots or lesions on your lips. The differential diagnosis of familial lentiginosis syndromes. This article will reveal natural and effective ways to lighten dark lips. Measurement of Reduced Gingival Melanosis after Smoking Cessation: A Novel Analysis of Gingival Pigmentation Using Clinical Oral Photographs. Dark lips can also occur as a side effect of chemotherapy or radiation therapy. Betel leaf and areca nut chewing as well as tobacco chewing may cause an intense redness of the lips but over years this can also lead to a dark discoloration of the lips. Peutz-Jeghers syndrome is a genetic condition characterized by the presence of gastrointestinal polyps (read more on intestinal polyposis syndromes) and hyperpigmentation of the skin and mucosal membranes. It is often related to iron-deficiency anemia but any type of anemia can be responsible. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/1875424/. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3417307/. While lips naturally darken with age, pigmentation on the lips can often indicate medical problems. The following factors can contribute to darkening of the lips: Excessive exposure to sun rays without any sunscreen can stimulate an overproduction of melanin, leading to hyperpigmentation of the lips. 7. Initially this may present as paleness and eventually the blue tinge becomes evident. Dry lips appear white or pale with cracking but in severe cases this can extend to the skin around the lips causing a darker brown outer border. Sun exposure or hyperpigmentation (Lips can become sunburned or darken if not wearing an SPF sunscreen) 2. In general, the first step in treatment is to avoid the causative factor. Stain from foods or drinks as in tea or coffee is another cause. (9), At times, the changes in hormone levels during pregnancy may cause melasma, which can manifest as dark patches on the lips. The lips itself almost never reaches a full black color. Cyanosis is a bluish discoloration of certain parts of the body associated with a higher than normal level of deoxygenated blood. Topical retinols and retinoid treatments can help clear hyperpigmentation. December 7, 2020 - Updated on January 20, 2021, Symptoms Associated With Darkening of the Lips, Medical Treatment for Hyperpigmented Lips, Risk Factors Affecting Darkening of the Lips, What Causes Sun Damage and How Can It Be Treated, According to a Skin Specialist, 10 Benefits of Vitamin E for Hair and Skin, How to Get Smooth Skin With Clinical and Natural Treatments, 10 Skin Benefits of Turmeric and Ways to Use It, DIY Turmeric Face Masks for Acne, Wrinkles, Scars, and Dark Circles, Home Remedies to Strengthen Brittle Nails, Home Remedies to Prevent Dark Lips and Treat Them, What Are the Causes and Medical Treatment Options for Dark Spots, Melasma: Causes, Symptoms, and Medical Treatment, Freckles: Types, Causes, and Medical Treatment, Possible Causes of Dark Circles and Treatment Options. In certain cases, melanin production or the number of melanocyte cells may increase, turning your lips black, blue, brown, or gray. In order to get rid of this habit, one must stop smoking and should take up some natural ways to get pink lips. The lips are frequently exposed to allergens, ultraviolet radiation, and pollutants. Smoking, alcohol taking and … Many factors: The darkening of the lips and mucosa could be due to a genetic condition called peutz-jeghers. Darkening of the lips can be the result of hyperpigmentation. Repetitive licking of lips. Moreover, if you experience oral ulceration, inflammation, itching, and flaking or notice the development of spots in other parts of the body as well, make sure to consult a doctor at the earliest, as these symptoms may result from a severe medical problem. So you need to use a good lipstick and never use an expired one. Palate hyperpigmentation caused by prolonged use of the anti-malarial chloroquine. Skin lightening creams may also be used. It tends to form symmetrical patches with no itching or other symptoms of a rash. This includes : Discoloration of the skin and lips may be associated with eating disorders such as anorexia nervosa and bulimia due to nutritional deficiencies. Laugier-Hunziker syndrome Laugier-Hunziker syndrome is a benign skin condition that causes dark brown spots, called macules, on the lips and … The doctor may prescribe corticosteroids and topical calcineurin inhibitors if the cause is an inflammatory response. Which is accompanied by intestinal polyps. Some lip care cosmetic contains a high amount of chemical which can affect the sensitive skin of the lips and discolor it. Published 2001. Some of the main causes of dark lips are excessive exposure to direct sunlight, an allergic reaction, use of low-quality cosmetics, chewing tobacco, excessive smoking, high caffeine intake, and hormonal imbalances. Published 1991. The nicotine from smoking could highly … Causes of Dark Lips: As it is said precaution is always better than cure. Dermatitis is a broad term that refers to skin inflammation due to any number of causes. Published October 2013. Jaundice is a yellow discoloration of the skin caused by an excess of bilirubin associated with liver or biliary disease. 1. Vitamin E, medically called alpha-tocopherol, is a fat-soluble vitamin that acts as a potent antioxidant agent. This condition is associated with a very high risk of intestinal cancer. Sunspots on your lips can be in a form of dry dark spots, white patches, freckles, and wrinkles. If you know the causes of the problem of your dark lips then you can work to uproot the cause, instead of looking for a temporary solution. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5029232/. Head and neck pathology. Anemia is one of the common causes of lip discoloration particularly in women during the reproductive years. Lemon has natural beaching properties which may help to lighten lips. The cytotoxic drugs used during cancer treatment can cause the lips to turn dark overtime. destroy the health of your lips and make them dark in appearance. 6. Most conversations around healthy, beautiful skin revolve around how it looks, blemishes, and skin color, while another key aspect –... Turmeric is a common household spice that is part of different cuisines. Smoking and chewing tobacco ( as it contains nicotine ) 3. Anemia is one of the common causes of lip discoloration particularly in women during the reproductive years. AJ; VVMM. The yellowing is most prominent on the skin and whites of the eyes (sclera) but may also stain the inside of the mouth (buccal lining). Kunachak S; Kunachakr S; Kunachakr S; Leelaudomlipi P; Wongwaisayawan S; An effective treatment of dark lip by frequency-doubled Q-switched Nd:YAG laser. In terms of how to lighten lips (how to get rid of dark lips), aloe vera helps thanks to a flavonoid called aloesin. If you are searching for a product that will ensure to promise pink and luscious lips. It is one of several distinguishing features of crack cocaine and crystal meth users. Dryness Lips look better and beautiful when the natural moisturizer for the lips is the right amount. Smoking can cause your lips and gums to darken. Sreeja C, Ramakrishnan K, Vijayalakshmi D, Devi M, Aesha I, Vijayabanu B. Nouveau S, Agrawal D, Kohli M, Bernerd F, Misra N, Nayak CS. What Causes Dark Lips? This is more common in cigarette smokers and mouth breathers as the movement of air in and out of the mouth expedites moisture loss. Antipsychotic drugs used in the treatment of certain psychiatric conditions. This is also more likely to occur in cold climates and windy weather. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30964234/. Other causes of yellowish discoloration may include hypocarotenemia which is associated with excess beta carotene derived from foods, pernicious anemia, Wilson’s disease and other causes of copper toxicity. Melanin is the coloring pigment released by melanocyte cells present in the skin layers. (1), Trauma can also lead to the development of melanoacanthoma, which appears as a deeply pigmented area. Published December 20, 2017. Journal of cosmetic dermatology. Cigarette smoking, alcohol abuse and regular narcotic use may all cause discoloration of the lips. The lips may also be affected by sunburn. Brown spots on lips can be due to many of reasons among them aging, sunshine exposure, smoking, cancer and others we have comprehensively covered. The human lips (labia oris) is the junction between the outer facial skin and inner buccal mucosa that lines the mouth cavity. Over or long term use of cosmetics, using expired products and not removing lipstick at night can leave dark tones on the lips. Step 1 Exfoliate daily with a mild and gentle facial scrub to lift dead skin cells and help fade dark areas around the mouth. Natural Ways Get Rid of Dark Lips: 1. The darkened skin patches (lentigines) is in most cases accompanied by darkening of the mucosal lining in the mouth (buccal mucosa). (1). Therefore, environmental factors such as those mentioned above can quickly affect the lips, often causing pigmentation or lesions. Published 2009. The possible causes of dark lips include the following: 1. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2856363/. There are many ways to lighten dark lips that don’t require buying expensive products or treatments. Oral pigmentation: A review. Published March 2012. The intensity of the discoloration chiefly depends upon the degree of degradation and the lesion age. This flavonoid can inhibit the pigmentation process, and cause lightening. In terms of bulimia, repetitive vomiting and the corrosive action of stomach acid may inflict ongoing damage on the lips and possibly lead to discoloration over the long term. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/22715817/. A number of toxins may cause discoloration of the skin and possibly the lips, particularly metals such as copper, bismuth, mercury and silver. While pigmentation is rarely a cause for concern, you must consult your doctor if you notice development of lesions or spots or if the spots are increasing in size and spreading to other body parts. These include: Any trauma to the lips may cause them to turn bluish black. Most cases of discolored lips are associated with brownish to brownish-gray hue. Chemotherapy drugs used in the treatment of cancer. Causes help you with precautions. https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/abs/10.1111/j.1601-0825.2007.01391.x. Tadakamadla J, Kumar S, Nagori A, Tibdewal H, Duraiswamy P, Kulkarni S. Effect of smoking on oral pigmentation and its relationship with periodontal status. (10). It can be associated with environmental causes, mechanical, chemical or electromagnetic damage, skin disorders, systemic diseases and lifestyle factors. Although atopic dermatitis is uncommon on the lips, sometimes skin lesions on the face close to the lip may extend onto the lip surface. Indian dermatology online journal. This means that the oxygen levels in the blood are very low. Hormones released during pregnancy or while receiving hormone therapy can cause melasma or dark patches to form on the facial region including the upper lip. Dark lips can also be caused by regular smoking. Cigarette smokers may have darkening of the lips and inner lining of the mouth known as smoker’s melanosis. However, they may contain toxic metals such as mercury, which can cause heavy metal poisoning. The following are possible causes of black lips, or hyperpigmentation of the lips: Smoking. The yellowing is not as prominent on the lips as it is on the other parts of the skin and sclera. So keep drinking required amount of water, not only for your lips but for your whole body as well, as water has many amazing benefits. Chinese medical journal. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/15567368/. Excessive smoking can cause a type of pigmentation known as a smoker’s melanosis . Cold sore on lips The infection of a cold sore is one of the dry lips causes that can affect you. Skin-lightening agents like hydroquinone. Combined with its fewer layers of skin than the rest of the face, the color of the lips is also largely dependent on the underlying tissue color and blood flow. Indian journal of dermatology. This site provides content for informational purposes only. What topical remedies can I try to lighten the spots on my lips? https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3311937/. The color of skin is determined by the amount of natural pigment known as melanin. Some common cause of dark skin on upper lip and dark upper lip will include the following: Hyperpigmentation is the darkening of an area of the skin as a result of increased melanin production. Illicit substances that are smoked are more likely to contribute to dark lips. Some drugs like phenothiazines may also be used for treating nausea and vomiting. Sun damage on your lips can also result in the development of sunspots or premature age spots. Pentenero M, Broccoletti R, Carbone M, Conrotto D, Gandolfo S. The prevalence of oral mucosal lesions in adults from the Turin area. The more likely dermatitis is contact dermatitis particularly in women and with the use of cosmetics such as lip gloss, lipstick and lip liners. Some people... Everyone desires strong, smooth nails on their fingers and toes. Everyday habits like smoking, not having enough water etc. Take your medical history and family history, Perform a physical examination of lips for the pattern, color, and distribution of pigmentation and the appearance of lesions, Perform a dermatologic examination of the mouth, hair, nails, and whole body in general. Sometimes it may be inherited. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/11231240/. Dark lips may be a result of the following factors: Increased exposure to the sun can increase the melanin production in your skin, thereby causing pigmentation. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6531998/. A bruise can form on one or both lips following an injury. Dental clinics of North America. International journal of dermatology. By using this website and the comment service you agree to abide by the comment terms and conditions as outlined on this page, Common Health Problems in Older Adults (Chronic Diseases After 50), Cloth Face Masks for COVID-19 Effectiveness, Best Choice, Layers, Material, Metallic Taste in the Mouth – Causes and Warning Signs, COVID-19 and Diabetes Link and Risks for Diabetics, Loss of Smell and Taste – Causes of Both Sensory Impairments, Copyright © 2021 Healthhype.com | Sitemap, Bones, Joints, Muscles and Connective Tissue Diseases. Home / Skin & Beauty / More Skin Conditions. Drinking excessive coffee ( as it contains caffeine ) 4. Emergency medical attention is necessary if blue lips are associated with a diminished level of consciousness, cold and clammy skin and difficulty breathing. Causes : 1. Benign spots or lesions can be managed with the help of: Malignant pigmentation is generally treated with Mohs micrographic surgery or excision. Mehta V, Nayak S, Balachandran C. Pigmented contact cheilitis to paraphenylenediamine. Journal of the National Medical Association. It may be associated with long term sun exposure (solar lentigines, also known as actinic lentigines or liver spots) or with systemic diseases (non-solar lentigines) like Peutz-Jeghers syndrome. Do I need to consult a dermatologist or endocrinologist? Congratulations! Dark lips: If you are into the habit of smoking then you will find that your lips are turning dark in colour. Tetracyclines like minocycline which are broad spectrum antibiotics and other types of antibiotics may also be responsible for lip discoloration. Acta clinica Croatica. Read the causes and take the precautions. Smoking is the leading cause of turning the lips dark by snatching the pink colour. Published August 2015. Alawi F. Pigmented lesions of the oral cavity: an update. Dark lips can also be caused over a certain period with pigmentation around the lips area. Excessive dryness of lips. Melanoacanthoma: Uncommon presentation of an uncommon condition. (2), ALSO READ: What Causes Sun Damage and How Can It Be Treated, According to a Skin Specialist, This is one of the most common reasons for darkening of the lips. Moreover, the skin of your lips is thinner than that of other body parts, making it highly sensitive. Lip swelling can be cause for concern since it often implicates an allergic reaction. This condition is common in people with a dark skin tone. Published September 2011. In severe cases this discoloration may be slightly blue and becomes more pronounced with cold weather. While it has a predilection for the forehead and cheeks, it may also occur on the lips, particularly the upper lip. 5. Cosmetics- Causes of dark lips also include the use of cosmetics. Find all the causes, best treatments as well as home remedies that can help. Your chapped lips could be caused by something aside from dry weather. Bandyopadhyay D. Topical treatment of melasma. (7), Allergic reactions to chemicals in cosmetics or toothpaste, such as cheilitis, may lead to darkening of the lips. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2807702/. Certain types of illicit alcohol and home brews may use acidic substances to speed up fermentation which can lead to a dark spots on the lips. What Causes Dark Lips? https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4606629/. It can also be characteristic of smoker’s melanosis. (1), This refers to the development of a blue, black, or gray lesion on the lips or other parts of the mouth due to the deposition of amalgam filling. Dark spots around the lips is also known as hyperpigmentation. The solar types is partly due to sun damage of the skin which is a common problem. It occurs on any surface of the skin that is exposed to sun but on the face in particular. Once you inhale a cigarette smoke, the nicotine and tar transfers on the lips, which causes the discolouration eventually. Lifestyle habits. Anemia is a lower than normal concentration of … Published December 2012. Hormonal changes are one of the primary causes for lip discoloration in women. Kato T, Takiuchi H, Sugiyama S, et al. However, the skin on the lips with its lower melanin content may not be affected as significantly. Lifestyle and Habits Your lifestyles may also leave a dark tint on your lips. 4. The outer layers are largely similar to skin except that the lips has fewer layers. Here are the causes of the dark lips. Published June 16, 2016. Your skin is important not only for your outward appearance but also because it reflects your internal health. then you can be treated. Skin health is largely dependent on adequate moisture and the lips with its fewer layers of skin easily loses its natural moisture. An allergic reaction, yeast infection, or something more serious can make your lips feel dry and uncomfortable. Drinking too much alcohol can also disrupt the balance of toxins in the body and cause dark spots to appear on the lips. Since the lip color is partly imparted  by the blood flowing through the lips, a deficiency of hemoglobin or red blood cells will affect the lip color accordingly. Because you have just … Certain medical conditions can also cause hyperpigmentation of the lips. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3775277/. may also cause hyperpigmentation in your lips. Causes of dark Lips are: Sunlight: Prolong exposure to sunlight leads to the darkening of lips. If you are a smoker, dark lips might be a consequence of smoking. Smoking. Thanks Thanks Dry lips can eventually crack (chapped lips) and if it persists it can contribute to slight discoloration of the lips. Indian journal of dermatology. Darkening of the lips may often be accompanied by the following symptoms: The treatment for dark lips depends on the underlying cause. International journal of environmental research and public health. Dermatologic surgery: official publication for American Society for Dermatologic Surgery [et al.]. The skin of the... 2. This only occurs in long term cigarette smoking and will resolve once smoking is discontinued. The following factors can predispose you to dark lips: It is common for the lips to darken with age. The information provided is not intended for use as medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. However, your lips can also darken without any changes in melanin content. If you are suffering from the darkening of the lips, then this article is for you.

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