Causes of Darkened Lips
Smoking:
The components in cigarettes such as nicotine, tar, carbon monoxide, and cyanide acid alter the skin’s pigmentation around the mouth.
Excessive Coffee Consumption:
The caffeine in coffee will darken the lips and stain teeth over time if consumed daily for many years.
Sun Exposure:
To protect the body, the epidermal cells are stimulated to produce more melanin. Additionally, UV rays damage the connective tissues under the skin, breaking down collagen. This leads to both lip discolouration and wrinkles.
Habits like Lip Biting and Licking:
Saliva contains the enzyme amylase. When you lick your lips, this enzyme is exposed to the outside air, causing dryness and discolouration. Regular lip licking can lead to skin peeling and thinning.
Using Low-Quality Cosmetics:
Over time, the use of poor-quality products can cause lip discolouration, flaking, and even infection. Lipsticks with high lead content can particularly cause lip darkening within a short period.
Improper Lip Care:
If we don’t pay attention to cleaning and caring for our lips properly, especially when we regularly apply lipstick, our lips can become discoloured quickly.
Simple Home Remedies for Darkened Lips
Lemon
Vitamin C and folic acid in lemons help inhibit melanin production while promoting healthy cell regeneration and collagen synthesis, improving the lip’s appearance.
+ Before bed, cut a lemon slice and gently rub it on your lips 2-3 times. Rinse it off in the morning.
+ Alternatively, mix lemon juice with brown sugar to create a natural lip scrub. Gently exfoliate your lips with this mixture to make them softer and rosier.
Honey
Honey is a natural humectant, which means it helps lock in moisture, keeping your lips soft and plump. Applying honey directly to your lips before bed will ensure they stay rosy and well-hydrated.
Strawberries
Mash 2-3 strawberries and mix them with a teaspoon of baking soda. Apply this mixture to your lips for about 30 minutes every night. Alternatively, blend strawberries and mix the juice with honey in a 1:1 ratio. Apply this mixture to your lips for about 20 minutes, repeating if needed. Doing this consistently will result in rosier lips over time.
Beetroot
Beetroot has natural bleaching properties and contains enzymes that help remove dead skin cells. Applying beetroot juice to your lips regularly will give them a natural pinkish hue and make them softer.
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