Pigmentation Around Mouth

Pigmentation around the mouth is one of the common issues which might be frustrating  for both men and women. This common skincare concern is between almost all age groups irrespective of the genders. The dark patches in the mouth area causes uneven skin tone around lips and smiling area, which leads to aged and dull skin, even when the rest of the area is clear.

And the good part is, when the right skincare is followed with proper lifestyle changes and consistency, then the dark patches/pigmentation around the mouth can be kept under control. 

In this blog, you will know in detail about the causes of pigmentation, how to treat them effectively, along with the ingredients and everything in detail.

What Is Pigmentation Around the Mouth?

Generally the pigmentation around the mouth is known as the perioral hyper-pigmentation, which refers to the dark/uneven area surrounding the lips. The range generally varies from mild discoloration to even deeper and darker patches on the spot compared to the rest of the area.

Like acne marks on the skin or sun spots, this is one type of pigmentation which develops on the flow and will worsen when not treated properly.

Common Causes of Pigmentation Around the Mouth

Here, the root cause is the one which should be identified and worked on, rather than randomly swapping the skincare products.

1. Hormonal Changes

One of the common conditions in women, is one of the major causes of pigmentation around men. The stages women go through in each phase like pregnancy, initial period days, PCOS, thyroid, etc might trigger the melanin levels, and lead to discoloration.

2. Sun Exposure

Like the under eye area, the skin around the mouth area is also thin and sensitive. So, UV rays might easily damage the thin areas, which leads to uneven pigmentation due to the fluctuation in melanin levels.

3. Excessive Lip Licking

A common condition which most of us do on an everyday basis. Even though this habit is harmless, the saliva leads to excessive dryness and irritation, which eventually leads to pigmentation.

4. Harsh Skincare Products

Using too much of chemical-based skincare products or exfoliation often might damage the skin barrier, which also leads to pigmentation. Also, at times waxing, threading, shaving, or acne around the mouth can leave behind dark patches once inflammation subsides.

5. Nutritional Deficiencies

Due to nutritional deficiency like vitamin B12, iron, folic acid, etc will also lead to pigmentation around the mouth.

How Long Does It Take to Reduce Pigmentation Around the Mouth?

Pigmentation in skin does not fade within days or overnight. It takes its own time to cure and vanish between 8 to 15 weeks. 

Few things to focus on, for faster and better results are:

1. Cleansing skin twice a day.

2. Keeping us internally hydrated and externally moisturized.

3. USe brightening skincare ingredients.

4. Never missing SPF in AM routine.

Ingredients That Help Reduce Pigmentation Safely

If you are someone dealing with pigmentation around mouth, ensure to pick ingredients which brightens skin without causing any irritation.

1. Aloe Vera

One of the natural moisturizing and soothing ingredients which is known for inhibiting melanin production. Suitable for sensitive and irritative skin.

Get your hands on pure aloe vera gel, which helps in calming the pigmentation without irritating skin.

2. Vitamin C

Vitamin C, one of the pigment reducing ingredient which helps in:

• Brightening dull skin.

• Improving overall skin tone.

• Protecting skin from sun damage.

• Reduces the secretion of melanin production.

If you are new to this ingredient, start with Vitamin C face wash, a wash off product and then you can use Vitamin C serums.

3. Licorice Extract

They are available in powder forms and are also a key ingredient in skin brightening products. Using this ingredient helps in brightening skin and soothing them from pigmentation.

Ideal Skincare Routine for Pigmentation Around the Mouth

When you start to work on the skin concern, make sure to be consistent and disciplined. 

AM Skincare Routine for Pigmentation Around Mouth

1. Start with a Vitamin C face wash, which cleanses without stripping the skin’s moisture. Vitamin C helps in brightening skin and also works as a base for brightening treatments. Using this helps in enhancing skin balance.

2. When the skin is damp, take a few drops of vitamin C serum and damp them around the mouth area. Never rub, since they will cause friction.

3. Follow up with a aloe vera gel and a light-weight moisturize. This helps in keeping skin moisturized and free from skin irritation.

4. Follow up with a SPF sunscreen. Go with SPF 30 / SPF 50 for best results.

Night Routine for Pigmentation Around Mouth

1. Double cleanse your skin with oily-based/gel-based cleanser followed by face wash.

2. Then, use a vitamin C serum or brightening serum. Dab them rather than rubbing them into your skin.

3. Follow up with a repairing ingredient which moisturizes too, Aloe vera gel.

Lifestyle Changes That Support Pigmentation Reduction

Even though skincare plays a key role in treating the pigmentation, the habits and lifestyle makes a difference:

1. Do not lick your lips. Use a nourishing lip balm in the AM and PM routine.

2. Do not use any waxing or threading around the mouth, at least for a few sessions.

3. Eat balanced foods like fruits and vegetables.

4. Make sure to keep yourself internally hydrated.

Can Natural Products Really Help Pigmentation?

Yes, when you are consistent and disciplined, then natural products will help! Going with natural formulations like aloe vera gel and vitamin C helps in treating skin health without damaging skin. 

Conclusion

Pigmentation around the mouth is common, but is manageable with the right care you can make the skin even and healthy. Follow a routine consistently and you can fade away the pigmentation right around the corner.

FAQ’s

What causes pigmentation around the mouth?

Pigmentation around the mouth is commonly caused by sun exposure, hormonal changes, excessive lip licking, harsh skincare products, or post-inflammatory marks from waxing or acne.

Can pigmentation around the mouth be removed naturally?

Yes, mild to moderate pigmentation can improve with consistent use of gentle ingredients like aloe vera and vitamin C, along with daily sunscreen and proper hydration.

How long does it take to see results for mouth pigmentation?

Visible improvement usually takes 6 to 12 weeks with regular skincare, sun protection, and lifestyle changes. Results vary based on skin type and the root cause.

Is vitamin C safe to use around the mouth area?

Vitamin C is generally safe when used in the right concentration. It helps brighten pigmentation, even skin tone, and protect against further darkening when paired with sunscreen.

Does aloe vera help reduce dark patches around the lips?

Yes, aloe vera soothes irritated skin, supports repair, and helps reduce melanin production over time, making it effective for calming pigmentation around the mouth.