If you have a dark upper lip, melasma is most likely the cause. Melasma is a type of brown discoloration that is usually seen on the cheeks, forehead, nose and upper lip. Sun exposure and hormone fluctuations cause the condition to appear. Pregnant women, women using oral contraceptives or women on hormone replacement therapies are most prone to the condition. Because sun exposure is a factor in melasma, you should wear sunscreen on your face daily to prevent the lip area from darkening.
Step 1
Wait it out to see if the extra pigment disappears on its own. According to Medline Plus, melasma often fades after a woman gives birth or stops using hormone therapies. Visit your doctor if the dark areas do not fade after a few months.
Step 2
Apply a lightening cream to the upper lip. Bleaching creams are available over the counter and are often appropriate for individuals with light skin tones. Look for brands that use hydroquinone, kojic acid or tretinoin among the active ingredients. It may take several months of daily use for the cream to remove the dark upper lip. If an over-the-counter version is not effective, your physician can prescribe a stronger cream or topical steroids or recommend a chemical peel.
Step 3
Use a broad spectrum sunscreen (which means it protects against UVB and UVA rays) with SPF 30 or higher. Lightening creams may cause sun sensitivity; avoid worsening the condition by applying sunblock to the entire face while outdoors. Reapply the sunblock every two hours when exposed to sunlight.
Step 4
Inquire about laser therapy. In severe cases, a plastic surgeon or dermatologist can use a laser to destroy the excess pigment on the upper lip. Multiple sessions may be needed to completely remove the darkened areas.
Things You'll Need
- Lightening cream
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