How To Get Rid Of Dark Pigmentation Around The Mouth Naturally

Dark spots, freckles, or pigmentation around the mouth can be more than just a cosmetic concern. It can be a source of frustration, self-consciousness, and even embarrassment at times. We try to hide it by concealing and using foundation, but is there a permanent solution? Whether it's melasma, hyperpigmentation, or another skin issue, these imperfections can make you feel like hiding behind a mask. But what if you could regain your confidence and say goodbye to this discolouration and uneven skin tone?

Let's dive into the world of pigmentation around the mouth, exploring the causes, treatments, and solutions to help you achieve a brighter, more radiant complexion

What Is Pigmentation?

Pigmentation refers to the colouring of the skin caused by melanin, a natural pigment produced by melanocytes. There are two types of melanin: one that makes your skin darker (eumelanin) and one that makes it lighter (pheomelanin). These pigments are produced by special cells in your skin, and they work together to give you your unique skin tone.¹

Pigmentation can occur anywhere on the body. But when it develops around the mouth, it’s particularly noticeable and often more difficult to conceal. Isn’t it? 

What Are The Causes Of Pigmentation Around The Mouth?

Pigmentation around the mouth and lips is a common concern. It can be triggered by the following factors- 

• Sun Exposure

Prolonged sun exposure triggers the body's natural defence mechanism, producing more melanin to protect the skin from harmful UV rays. As a result, the skin may become more pigmented, developing darker spots or discolouration as it attempts to shield itself from the sun's damaging effects. ^{1 2}

• Genetics

Your skin tone is influenced by 125 genes that control melanin production. Genetics can determine the number of skin cells (called melanocytes) you have, which produce melanin, the pigment that gives your skin its colour. While genetics plays a significant role, factors like sun exposure, medication, and cosmetics can also impact your skin tone over time. ¹

• Medicines

Certain medications can also impact skin pigmentation. For example, some antibiotics can increase melanin production, leading to darker skin. Conversely, other medications, such as skin-brightening treatments, can have the opposite effect. ¹

• Pregnancy

During pregnancy, your body produces more estrogen and progesterone hormones. These hormonal changes can cause dark patches on your skin, known as melasma. Some women experience them around their mouth specifically. Luckily, this discolouration often fades away after pregnancy. ³

• Hormonal Imbalances

Hormonal fluctuations can trigger pigmentation around the mouth. Changes in estrogen and progesterone levels can stimulate melanin production, leading to dark spots or discolouration. This hormonal imbalance can be caused by puberty, menstruation, birth control, or other factors. ^{2 4 5}    

• Vitamin Deficiencies

Not getting enough Vitamin B12 and Vitamin D can cause dark skin patches. A recent study revealed that many people with melasma were deficient in Vitamin D, often because they didn't get enough sunlight. Spending too little time outdoors can contribute to this problem. ⁶

• Allergic Reactions or Irritants

Common allergens such as cosmetic products, detergents, plants, metals, and other environmental factors may cause allergic contact dermatitis. It is an inflammatory skin condition triggered by an allergic reaction to certain substances that come into contact with the skin. All this may lead to skin pigmentation in many areas of the body. ^{7 8}

• Smoking

Regular Smoking can cause dark spots and discolouration around the mouth. It may be due to nicotine and other chemicals affecting the skin. These chemicals in tobacco smoke can stimulate melanin production, leading to pigmentation issues. ^{9 10}

Home Remedies To Get Rid Of Pigmentation Around The Mouth

If your pigmentation is mild or recently developed, some natural remedies may help lighten the area gradually. 

1.Papaya

Papaya contains the enzyme papain, which gently exfoliates dead skin cells and promotes cell turnover, helping to lighten pigmentation. It’s also rich in vitamin C, an antioxidant that helps reduce dark spots and even out skin tone. ¹¹

Apply a papaya mask on your affected area for 15 to 20 minutes and see the difference. How to make it? Prepare a thick paste out of a couple of slices of raw papaya and mix it with some rose water.  

2.AloeVera

Aloe vera is widely used in skincare for its soothing, hydrating, and healing properties. It contains a compound called aloesin, which inhibits tyrosinase, an enzyme involved in melanin production. This can help lighten dark spots and even out skin tone. You can directly apply the fresh aloe vera gel derived from its plant. ^{12 13 14}

3.Vitamin C

Vitamin C is one of the most effective and research-backed ingredients for treating skin pigmentation. It helps brighten the complexion, fade dark spots, and protect the skin from future discolouration by inhibiting melanin production. 15 16 17

Note: Always do a patch test before applying any natural remedy to avoid allergic reactions or irritation.

How To Treat Pigmentation Around The Mouth?

Topical Treatments

When you figure out the cause of your uneven skin tone, using products with certain ingredients can help improve your skin tone and make it more effective. Ingredients like Vitamin C, kojic acid, retinoids, and azelaic acid brighten skin, reduce dark spots, and improve texture over time. ¹⁸

Chemical Peels

A chemical peel is a skin treatment that uses a special solution to gently remove the top skin layers, revealing smoother, brighter, and more youthful-looking skin. It helps reduce fine lines, wrinkles, and uneven skin tone, giving you a fresher and more radiant complexion. ^{19 20} 

Microdermabrasion

Microdermabrasion treatments gently exfoliate the skin, removing the thicker outer layer to reveal smoother, more even-toned skin. This non-invasive skin rejuvenation technique effectively helps reduce scarring, discolouration, sun damage, and stretch marks. By stimulating collagen production, microdermabrasion helps to thicken this essential protein, resulting in a younger-looking complexion with improved texture and tone. ²¹

Laser Therapy

Laser resurfacing is a treatment that helps improve skin texture and appearance. It reduces wrinkles, scars, and uneven skin tone, while tightening the skin. The laser removes damaged skin layers, stimulates collagen growth, and reveals smoother, firmer skin. This procedure is also known as laser peel or laser vaporisation. ²²

Microneedling

Microneedling, or collagen induction therapy, is a safe and minimally invasive treatment that uses tiny needles to improve skin concerns like dark spots, melasma, stretch marks, acne scars, and uneven skin tone. It's suitable for all skin types and can help achieve smoother, more even-looking skin. ²³

How To Prevent Pigmentation Around the Mouth?

1. Follow a basic skincare routine that includes cleansing, exfoliating, and keeping your skin moisturised. This helps keep your skin balanced. ⁴
2. Always wear sunscreen when you're outside. ⁴
3. Try to stay out of the sun between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m., as the sun’s rays are strongest during this time. ⁴
4. Exfoliate gently to remove dead skin and even out your skin tone. After exfoliating, apply a moisturiser since it can make your skin dry. ⁴
5. Drink lots of water to keep your skin hydrated and soft. ²⁴
6. Eating a healthy diet can also contribute to healthy skin. Fuel your skin with a balanced diet rich in whole foods, including fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins. It can help shield your skin from damage and premature ageing, promoting a healthier, more radiant complexion. ²⁴

When To See A Doctor

While pigmentation is usually harmless, it’s advisable to consult a dermatologist if:

• The pigmentation appears suddenly or spreads rapidly.
• Over-the-counter products and home remedies don’t work.
  
  
• You notice other symptoms like itching, pain, or peeling.
  
  
• There is a suspected underlying medical or hormonal condition.

Recommended Skincare Solutions

In addition to professional treatments and home remedies, choosing the right skincare products is the key. It can make a significant impact in reducing pigmentation and restoring an even skin tone.

Areoveda Skin Brightening Serum is a gentle yet effective formulation enriched with natural ingredients that targets uneven pigmentation, dark spots, and dullness. This skin-brightening serum combines the power of NaturePep Pea and Bakuchiol to deliver visible results in just 28 days. Bonus? It’s completely safe for pregnant and new moms. So, why wait? Grab your bottle today!

Conclusion

Pigmentation around the mouth is a common concern, but with the right combination of preventive care, home remedies, and professional treatments, it is manageable. The key lies in consistency and understanding what’s triggering the discolouration in your case. Protect your skin from the sun, nourish it from within, and don't hesitate to seek medical advice when needed. A clear, even-toned complexion might be closer than you think!