Stains on the upper lip: why they appear and how to get rid of them

Skin tone unevenness can occur for a variety of reasons, and in the case of spots on the upper lip, there are a variety of causative factors, such as sun exposure, ageing, hormonal changes, genetic predisposition, or even the use of certain medications.

Spots on the upper lip may start to become more noticeable over time due to accumulated sun exposure and some of the other factors mentioned above. It is also possible that the pigmentation of the skin in that area is more susceptible to the appearance of spots.

Why do I have spots on my upper lip? 6 common causes

There are many people who find themselves with a darker shade on the area of the face between the nose and mouth. The spots on the upper lip can have various causes and some of the most common ones are:

1.   Sun exposure. If you notice that the area has darkened or is unevenly coloured, you may need to look up. Unprotected sun exposure is one of the main causes of skin blemishes, as ultraviolet rays increase melanin production, leading to the appearance of dark spots.

2. Melasma. This is a common condition in which dark patches appear on the skin, especially on the face. Melasma can be caused by hormonal changes (such as those that occur during pregnancy or menopause). It also leaves patches on the upper lip as a result of the use of oral contraceptives and certain medications, a problem that is aggravated by unprotected sun exposure.
3. Post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation. This occurs when the skin becomes inflamed or injured, which can cause localised dark spots in this highly visible area of the face.
4. Smoking. Smoking can cause stains on the lips and especially around the mouth due to repeated exposure to the heat and chemicals in cigarettes.
5. Heredity: Some people may have a genetic predisposition to develop spots on the upper lip or face in general.
6. Ageing. This can also be a contributing factor to the appearance of skin blemishes as, with age, tissues lose their elasticity and can become more prone to blemishes.

In addition to assessing which of these factors may be affecting the health of your skin, bear in mind that the problem is often the result of a combination of several causes. Analysing them and finding a solution is the first step to eliminating spots on the upper lip. And to speed up the process, it is also in your best interest to use natural remedies that have been proven to be effective.

How to get rid of upper lip stains: 5 natural tips

Blemishes on the upper lip are not easy to remove, but with perseverance, it is possible to do so. Here are some natural tips to help you achieve your goal and restore even skin tone in this area of the face:

1. Aloe vera. Aloe vera gel is known for its moisturising and skin lightening properties. Apply a small amount of aloe vera gel to the upper lip and leave it on for a few minutes before rinsing with warm water. Repeat this process twice a day.
2. Cucumber. Cucumber is a natural ingredient widely used to brighten the skin and is effective in reducing spots on the upper lip, even the darkest ones. Place a slice of cucumber on the upper lip for 15 minutes and then rinse with warm water. Repeat this process daily.
3. Lemon: Did you know that the citric acid in lemon helps to exfoliate and lighten the skin? Apply some fresh lemon juice to your upper lip and leave it on for a few minutes before rinsing with warm water. Repeat this process once a day. Note that this ingredient can be irritating to some people, so test a small area before applying it to the entire upper lip.
4. Honey. Honey is a natural ingredient that moisturises and softens the skin. Mix a tablespoon of honey with a pinch of turmeric and apply to the upper lip. Leave on for 20 minutes and then rinse with warm water. Repeat this process once a week.
5. Coconut oil. Coconut oil is rich in fatty acids and vitamin E, making it a natural moisturiser. Apply a small amount to the upper lip and massage gently for a few minutes before bedtime. Leave on overnight and rinse off in the morning. Repeat this process daily.

Remember that results may vary depending on skin type and the severity of the spots on the upper lip. If the problem persists or worsens, it is recommended that you consult a dermatologist for proper diagnosis and treatment.

Strategies to prevent blemishes and improve skin quality

One of the most effective strategies to prevent the appearance of spots on the upper lip is to be consistent with the application of sunscreen (even in winter, use a high SPF and reapply every two hours if you are exposed to the sun for long periods of time).

Another key point is to keep the skin on the upper lip moisturised. It is essential to use natural formulas such as shea butter, coconut oil, rosehip or jojoba oil. Always avoid the application of aggressive cosmetic products and chemical compounds, which irritate and weaken the skin.

It is also important to take care of your diet. A healthy, balanced diet can help prevent darkening and hyperpigmentation of the area. You may want to include foods rich in vitamins C and E, such as fresh fruit and vegetables, as well as foods rich in silicon such as pulses, whole grains, nuts and seeds. If you are unsure whether you are getting enough, you may want to include supplements, such as Silicium G7Beauty, which also improves the quality of hair and nails.