3 Essential Lip Care Tips to Prevent & Get Rid of Dark Lips

Lips are only covered with three to five layers of cells, unlike most of the skin which is covered with about 16. This means that the thin skin of our lips is more vulnerable to damage such as darkness, dryness, dullness and discolouration. The outside part, where lipstick is applied, is called the vermillion. The vermillion doesn't have the sweat or oil glands like the rest of our skin. The protective barriers are thin and hence our lips are more susceptible to pollution and UV damage. Lack of moisture leads to discoloured, dark, hyperpigmented lips due to excess melanin production. This happens due to various reasons including sun exposure, smoking, pregnancy, certain medication or other medical issues. Less moisture also leads to dry lips. To combat dryness on lips, we suggest using Vaseline Lip Therapy Aloe Tin. The lightweight formula is made with aloe vera that helps soothe and heal dry lips by locking in moisture. Read on to find out dark lips causes and remedies. We will also discuss how to lighten dark lips at home.

We often use a sunblock to protect our skin from the damage caused by UV rays. But we forget about the most sensitive part, our lips. Excessive exposure to sun rays without any lip protection can stimulate an over-production of melanin, leading to pigmented or dark lips. Notable discolouration is visible in light to medium-coloured skin tones.

Smoking is not only harmful to health but also is a major culprit of dark lips. People who smoke regularly often have dark lines around the lips. As soon as you light a cigarette, nicotine and tar in tobacco transfers on the lips. This encourages melanin production on the skin and causes lips to darken over a period of time.

We all know hydration plays a key role in maintaining healthy skin and hair. But hydration is also important to maintain the beautiful pink colour of our pout. A lack of water in the diet can cause dry, chapped, and irritated lips. So it's important to drink at least eight glasses of water everyday and even more during winters. This cause of dark lips is easy to counterbalance. Our lips suffer the most during winter due to extreme dryness. Dry lips are a major reason for dark and pigmented lips. Hence, keeping our body hydrated from within can help in reducing dry lips.

Other causes for dark lips can be due to medical reasons such as vitamin deficiency, makeup, allergies to lipsticks or toothpaste and any irritation or injury. Dark spots or hyperpigmentation on lips can also be caused when you are on high-dosage medications. During pregnancy, some women may also experience darkness on lips and dark patches on nipples, forehead and even neck. However, these areas usually return to their natural colour post pregnancy. Most people also lick their lips thinking it will solve the issue of dryness. Instead, hyperpigmentation is worsened by lip licking. Saliva enzymes break down the lip colour and expose them to further dry air creating hyperpigmentation to occur

If you have ever wondered: 'how to get rid of black lips?' you're in the right place. Here are some easy tips on how to achieve vibrant lips:

Just like your skin, your lips need protection from the sun's harmful UV rays. Sun exposure for extended periods of time can result in hyperpigmentation, causing your lips to darken over time. Always use a lip balm with SPF 15 or higher every time you step out, even on cloudy days. Think of it as protection for your pout! Choose lip balms with ingredients such as emollients (shea/cocoa butter), humectants (hyaluronic acid), SPF 30+, vitamins E & A, or natural oils.

Dead skin cells build up on your lips, making them look dull and dark. Consistent exfoliation is important to reveal the fresh, pink skin underneath. Gently scrub your lips 1-2 times a week using a soft toothbrush or a homemade scrub made with sugar and honey. This will not only make your lips brighter but also make them softer and smoother.

Dry, chapped lips are more prone to darkening. Keep your lips moisturized by drinking lots of water throughout the day. Additionally, purchase a nourishing lip balm and apply it whenever your lips feel chapped. Buy lip balms with ingredients such as shea butter, coconut oil, or vitamin E.

Here are some easy home remedies to combat dark lips. Incorporate them into your skincare routine for radiant lips:

Exfoliation is the easiest way to get rid of dead skin cells, which contribute to a darker appearance. A simple sugar and honey scrub offers a mild yet effective way to achieve this. Sugar is a natural abrasive, removing dead skin, while honey, a humectant, hydrates the lips, keeping them moisturized and plump.

Aloe vera and Vitamin E are well-known for their soothing and healing properties, making them perfect choices for addressing lip discoloration. Aloe vera consists of enzymes, which help lighten pigmentation and calm irritated skin. Vitamin E is a powerful antioxidant, which promotes cell regeneration, making aloe vera a great option for soothing the skin. Aloe vera for lips is especially beneficial, as it helps nourish and hydrate the lips, preventing dryness and irritation while promoting healthy, smooth lips.

Beetroot contains natural pigments, which impart a rosy tint, while lemon juice is a natural bleaching agent. However, lemon juice can be drying and irritating, so use this home remedy with caution. If you see any adverse reactions, discontinue using it immediately and consult a dermatologist.

Achieving and maintaining naturally radiant lips is all about regular care and mindful habits. Sun protection, regular exfoliation, and hydration are your three pillars to a stunning pout. These simple lip care tips will put you on the road to a naturally beautiful smile!