Hyperpigmentation around the mouth is extremely common. In fact, almost everyone gets it once in their lifetime. So, seeing dark spots around your lips, eyes, cheeks, and the like shouldn’t be that big of a concern. It’s only your skin’s way of asking for the care and attention it deserves.
What is Hyperpigmentation?
If you have recently noticed patches of discolored skin on your face, it’s probably because of hyperpigmentation. Simply put, when your body produces excess melanin — the cause of skin color — it tends to go to different places. These pigments are then haphazardly distributed, leaving some areas of your skin darker than the rest.
What Causes Hyperpigmentation?
There are quite a few reasons hyperpigmentation develops on your face. Here are some of them:
- Melasma
Melasma is a condition that can take place during pregnancy or when taking oral contraceptives. Due to hormonal changes, patches of brown start appearing on your face. Melasma is not painful, nor is it dangerous. - Sun Exposure
When your skin is exposed to the sun, harmful UV rays are quick to do their damage. This is why wearing sunscreen is essential. Unprotected sun exposure can also worsen melasma, making the spots look darker. - Medicinal Side Effects
Sometimes the medicines you take can cause hyperpigmentation as a side effect. Antibiotics, hormone replacements, antidepressants, cancer medication, etc., are some of the common examples. - Nutrition Deficiency
When your body doesn’t get enough nutrients, it can offset the skin pigmentation levels. Thus, to avoid dark spots around your mouth, make sure to get your daily fill of vitamins, protein, and other essential nutrients. - Medical Conditions
In some instances, rather than an external factor, internal issues could be the reason for hyperpigmentation. Underlying health concerns or a genetic imbalance could lead to dark spots on your face or body.
How to Get Rid of Hyperpigmentation around Mouth
Getting the pigments on your skin to lighten isn’t as hard as it may sound. Nonetheless, it is advised you seek proper professional care rather than trying ineffective methods at home. Consult a dermatologist to see what option suits you best.
- Exfoliation
Exfoliating your skin every two weeks or so helps to get rid of dead skin cells. It also fuels blood circulation, which lightens the spots. - Chemical Peels
Since they contain anti-inflammatory properties, chemical peels are a great way to reduce hyperpigmentation around your face. - Retinol
Retinol, also known as Vitamin A, helps to rejuvenate the skin cells. This is because the main job of retinoids is to reduce the excess production of epidermal melanin in your body. - Microneedling
Microneedling enhances collagen production within your skin and restores it to its fullest potential. - Azelaic Acid
Azelaic acid prevents hyperpigmentation from spreading by putting a stop to discolored cells. It is usually found in grains like wheat and barley. Due to its anti-inflammatory nature, however, it is of high value. - Laser Skin Resurfacing
Laser skin resurfacing is completely free of pain. During its process, a laser is zapped onto your facial skin. This gets the excess pigments to rise to the skin’s surface before they flake off. - Kojic Acid
Kojic acid is a skin-lightening solution. It halts melanin production in your body and should only be used at the advice of a skincare specialist.
What’s Next?
In the end, don’t forget that your skin doesn’t determine your worth. However, if you still want to find a safe method to get rid of hyperpigmentation around your mouth, nose, or eyes, contact Care Dermatology. We’re here to put your comfort and satisfaction above all else. Call us at any of our clinic locations:
The Villages Clinic: (352)-218-3211
Fruitland Park Clinic: (352)-612-1722
Kissimmee Clinic: (407)-553-3979