1️⃣ Hormonal changes
• PCOS
• Pregnancy
• Thyroid imbalance
• Oral contraceptive pills
Hormones can trigger melasma-like pigmentation around the mouth.
2️⃣ Sun exposure
The skin around the mouth is thin and sensitive.
❌ Not applying sunscreen properly around lips
➡️ Leads to tanning and pigmentation.
3️⃣ Lip licking & saliva irritation
Frequent lip licking, drooling, or saliva contact
➡️ Causes irritant contact dermatitis → pigmentation.
4️⃣ Hair removal methods
• Threading
• Waxing
• Bleach
• Facial razors
Repeated friction & inflammation cause post-inflammatory pigmentation.
5️⃣ Wrong skincare products
• Harsh face washes
• Steroid-mixed fairness creams
• Strong actives without guidance
➡️ Damages skin barrier → darkening.
6️⃣ Nutritional deficiencies
• Vitamin B12
• Iron deficiency
• Folic acid
Can cause pigmentation around mouth and lips.
7️⃣ Medical conditions
• Acanthosis nigricans (insulin resistance)
• Chronic eczema
• Perioral dermatitis (after steroid use)
8️⃣ Smoking & dehydration
Reduces oxygen supply to skin
➡️ Leads to dull, dark appearance.
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⚠️ When to consult a doctor?
• Sudden onset
• Associated itching, redness, scaling
• Pigmentation spreading fast
• No improvement with basic care
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