Skip to content Do you notice that your lips look darker than they used to?
It could be lip hyperpigmentation. It happens when your lips make more melanin, the pigment that gives them their colour.
For some, darker lips are completely natural and nothing to worry about. In other cases, it might be caused by sun damage, smoking, allergies, or even certain foods and drinks. The best part is, in many cases, you can do something to lighten your dark lips.
This blog is all about pigmentation on lips—its causes, natural and professional treatments and when you should talk to a doctor.
Lip hyperpigmentation is when the lips appear darker than their natural colour because of extra melanin. Melanin is the natural pigment that gives your skin, hair, and eyes their colour. When the body produces more melanin in a certain area, that part of the skin becomes darker.
Pigmentation lips can affect the whole lip, only one lip, or just the borders around the lips. Sometimes, it appears as tiny spots or blotches. In most cases, it’s more of a cosmetic concern than a medical one, but knowing the cause can help you choose the proper treatment.
In most cases, it is harmless, but sudden changes in lip colour or uneven patches can point to lifestyle, environmental, or health-related causes.
There are many reasons why lips can darken. Knowing the causes helps prevent further pigmentation on the lips.
Some people are simply born with darker lips because of their skin tone and genetic makeup. People with more melanin naturally in their skin tend to have lips that appear darker, and this is completely normal.
Iron and vitamin B12 deficiency are especially important. Lack of these nutrients can cause not only pale lips but also uneven pigmentation.
Some people notice that only the edges of their lips are dark. This is a type of pigmentation that can have different causes:
You must see a healthcare practitioner if the edges of your lips are getting darker quickly or come with swelling or pain.
Lip hyperpigmentation doesn’t always look the same on everyone. The way it shows up can give some clues about the cause. Here are the main types:
This means the whole lip has an even, darker shade than before. Both the upper and lower lips have become dark evenly. It can be due to genetics, smoking, or sun exposure, and it can appear over time.
This is when the lip colour is uneven, with some areas darker than others. You might see small dark spots, freckles, or irregular patches. Allergies, skin irritation, or certain health conditions can cause this.
This type affects only the edges or outline of the lips. The darker colour forms a line around the lips while the centre part looks lighter. It can be caused by sun damage, lip liner or lipstick irritation, or even constant lip biting.
Is your skin tone dark, and are you seeing dark spots on it? Explore the guide to learn the best hyperpigmentation laser treatment for dark skin.
Want to lighten your dark lips? Here are the best treatment strategies from professional to natural.
If you want faster and more noticeable results, professional treatments from a dermatologist or skin clinic are worth considering. These options are usually done in a series of sessions and give longer-lasting results than most home remedies.
The UltraClear Laser is a gentle but effective way to lighten dark lips. It works by sending tiny bursts of light into the skin to target melanin, the pigment that makes lips darker. The laser breaks the melanin into smaller pieces, and your body naturally clears it away over time.
This treatment doesn’t harm the surrounding skin and is designed to be safe for delicate areas like the lips. Most people need a few sessions to see a big difference, and the results can last a long time if you take care of your lips afterwards.
A chemical peel for the lips uses a very mild acid solution to remove the top layer of skin. This layer often holds the darker pigment, so when it’s gently peeled away, fresher and lighter skin is revealed underneath. The treatment feels like a light tingling and is usually quick to do.
It’s important that only a trained professional performs this procedure because the skin on the lips is thin and sensitive. After a peel, your lips might feel a bit dry for a few days, but with proper care, they soon look smoother and brighter.
Microneedling uses very fine, tiny needles to make small channels in the skin on your lips. These channels allow special brightening serums to go deeper and work more effectively. It might sound scary, but the needles are so small that most people feel only a slight tickling or mild discomfort.
Over time, microneedling can improve lip colour, texture, and softness. The treatment also encourages your skin to make more collagen, which helps keep your lips healthy and plump. Just like the other treatments, it works best when done by a professional.
They can work well, but the skin on your lips is very thin and sensitive, so you must be careful. It’s best to use them under a doctor’s or dermatologist’s advice to avoid irritation.
Kojic acid is a natural ingredient made from certain types of fungi. It helps reduce melanin and can make lips lighter over time. It is often used with vitamin C.
Azelaic acid gently exfoliates (removes old skin cells) and also calms redness or swelling. It can help fade pigmentation without being too harsh, so it’s a good choice for sensitive skin.
This is one of the most potent ingredients for skin lightening. It works by blocking an enzyme that your body needs to make melanin (the pigment that gives skin and lips their colour). Hydroquinone is prescription-only and not for long-term use.
Retinoids, like over-the-counter retinol or prescription tretinoin, help skin renew itself faster. They can fade dark areas, but they can also cause dryness or irritation if used too often. If you try retinoids for lips, pick products made especially for lip skin.
Arbutin works in a similar way to hydroquinone but is much gentler. It’s available over the counter and is less likely to cause irritation.
Important: Always test a small amount of any new product before applying it all over your lips.
You can try these at-home tips to lighten your lip hyperpigmentation:
Just like your face, your lips need daily sun protection. A lip balm with SPF 15 or higher stops harmful UV rays from making your lips darker. Reapply every 2-3 hours if you’re outdoors.
A soft lip scrub, used once or twice a week, removes dry, dead skin cells, making your lips smoother, allowing treatments to work better, and helping even out colour over time.
Look for serums or creams made for lips that contain vitamin C, kojic acid, or niacinamide. These work slowly to reduce pigmentation by blocking melanin production.
Aloe vera is naturally cooling, and it can help heal irritation and may slowly lighten lips with regular use.
Honey keeps lips moisturised, soft, and healthy-looking. It can be mixed with a drop of olive oil for extra nourishment.
Pomegranate seed oil is packed with antioxidants, it protects lips from environmental damage and supports natural colour.
Avoid harsh home treatments like lemon juice, baking soda, or undiluted apple cider vinegar. These can burn or irritate your lips, making pigmentation worse.
It’s easier to stop lip darkening before it happens than to reverse it. These daily habits can keep your lips healthy and bright.
Most of the time, dark lips are harmless. But sometimes, they can be a sign of a deeper issue. You should see a doctor if:
Getting checked ensures you catch any possible health concerns early.
Dark lips are more common than you might think, and they don’t always mean something is wrong. Sometimes, it’s just your natural skin tone. But if your lips have changed colour recently, it could be due to sun damage, smoking, irritation, or other treatable causes. The good news is there are many safe ways to bring back your natural lip colour, from using SPF balms and gentle scrubs to professional treatments like lasers or chemical peels.
If you want a quick fix, consult the experts at Yorkshire Skin Centre for best Lip Hyperpigmentation treatment in Leeds.
Remember, healthy lips aren’t just about colour, they’re about care, protection, and daily good habits.
Yes, it can go away, but it depends on the cause. If it’s from smoking, sun damage, or certain lip products, stopping the cause and treating your lips can lighten them over time. Some cases fade on their own, while others may need treatments like lasers, peels, or creams.
Many things can cause dark lips. Common ones include smoking, too much sun, certain lipsticks, allergies, and health problems like anaemia. Even your natural skin tone and family genes can make your lips look darker.
It can last weeks, months, or even years. If you treat it early and protect your lips, it may fade faster. But if the cause continues (like smoking or no SPF), it can stick around or come back.
A lack of vitamin B12 or iron is most linked to dark lips. These nutrients help keep your lips healthy and their natural colour. Low levels can lead to uneven pigmentation or paler lips with darker patches.
Please provide your details, and we will get back to you shortly.
Sunken eyes are a common concern that affects both appearance and overall facial expression. The area under the eyes may look darker, thinner, or recessed, which often gives a tired or aged look even when you feel well-rested. Many people consider sunken eyes a cosmetic concern, but they can also be a sign of dehydration, […]
Noticing a bump on your eyelid? It could be a chalazion, which sometimes heals on its own. The chalazion healing stages are simple: it first looks red and swollen, then softens with warm compresses, slowly shrinks in size, and finally clears up within a few weeks. By following aftercare tips and practising good eyelid hygiene, […]
Is the bump on your eyelid not going away? You might be wondering, ‘How long does a chalazion last?’ Most chalazions heal within a few weeks to a couple of months. A chalazion can be frustrating and sometimes affect your confidence or comfort. Most of the time, the bump resolves naturally, and there are safe […]
A V face shape is a facial contour where the cheeks taper smoothly down to a slim & pointed chin, creating the appearance of the letter “V.” It is considered one of the most desirable face shapes because it makes the face look youthful, slimmer, and balanced. A V-shaped face can be natural, but it […]
Table of Contents Noticing a bulge sitting just above your pubic bone? FUPA refers to the Fat Upper Pubic Area. It’s a common concern for both men and women, and while it isn’t dangerous, it can affect how clothes fit and how confident you feel. If you want to know the ins and outs of […]
Explore Personalised Beauty Solutions
Please provide your details, and we will get back to you shortly.
Dr. Mark Gorman is a consultant plastic surgeon and department lead at Salford Royal, specialising in facial plastics and complex reconstructive procedures. His expertise spans a wide range of areas, including oculoplastic, nasal, ear, abdominal, and microsurgical reconstruction, with particular focus on breast, head and neck, and lower limb reconstruction.
With a non-surgical and surgical skillet, Dr. Gorman is known for using advanced techniques to achieve natural, harmonious results. His approach often integrates dermal fillers and fat transfer to enhance facial features in combination with a range of deep plane facelifts.
Beyond facial aesthetics, his specialties include high-definition liposuction, allowing for precise body contouring.
Dr. Gorman’s approach to plastic surgery is rooted in skill, combining technical precision with a deep understanding of aesthetics to achieve refined and personalised outcomes for each patient.Dr.Gorman is a key opinion leader (KOL) for major UK aesthetic companies, also has taught at BAAPS (British Association of Aesthetic Plastic Surgeons), bringing his expertise to the next generation of surgeons.
Additionally, he runs his own aesthetic training company, further extending his influence in the field.Dedicated to total well-being, Dr. Gorman created the Look Body Mind philosophy, which blends aesthetics and wellness for a holistic approach to beauty.Whether you’re looking for subtle enhancements or comprehensive reconstructive work, Dr. Gorman’s patient-centered care, grounded in precision, skill and an exceptional aesthetic eye, ensures that you will feel confident throughout your journey.
Sophie brings over a decade of customer service expertise to her role as Receptionist at Yorkshire Skin Centre. With a strong foundation in retail management and the travel industry, she is recognised for her warm, approachable manner and professional attitude—ensuring every client feels welcomed and valued from the moment they arrive.
Highly organised and calm under pressure, Sophie thrives in fast-paced environments and seamlessly manages a wide range of front-of-house responsibilities.
As the first point of contact for many clients, she plays a vital role in maintaining the clinic’s high standards of service and creating a smooth, reassuring experience for all visitors.
Beyond her professional skills, Sophie brings a vibrant energy to the team. She has a passion for travel, fashion, and music, and is currently learning both Spanish and Arabic. Her dedication to personal growth, combined with her friendly and proactive approach, makes her an indispensable part of our team.
Herezel McCourt is a highly experienced Registered Nurse at Yorkshire Skin Centre, bringing over two decades of clinical expertise across diverse surgical and medical specialties. She holds a BSc (Hons) in Perioperative Practice from Huddersfield University, UK, and a BSc in Nursing from Cebu Doctors’ University in the Philippines.
Herezel has spent the majority of her career within the NHS, most recently as a Clinical Specialist in Ophthalmic Surgery at The MidYorkshire Teaching NHS Trust.
Her extensive background includes roles in operating theatres, anaesthetic care, ENT, urology, plastics, maxillofacial, orthopaedic, and podiatric nursing, among others.
Renowned for her professionalism, dedication, and compassionate care, Herezel is also a trained mentor, assessor, and ANTT trainer. She has led initiatives in recruitment, risk assessment, SOP development, and patient care pathway planning. Her leadership credentials are strengthened by a Level 3 Award in First Line Management and a strong commitment to staff development and peer support.
Herezel is a calm and supportive presence to both patients and colleagues, and her attention to clinical excellence makes her an invaluable member of the Yorkshire Skin Centre team.
Rhea Levitt is a highly experienced Clinical Assistant at Yorkshire Skin Centre, known for her hands-on approach, warm personality, and commitment to delivering high-quality patient care. With a solid background in healthcare settings, Rhea brings valuable clinical expertise and administrative support to the team.
Her wide-ranging experience includes phlebotomy, wound care, ECGs, diabetic foot checks, B12 injections, and assisting in minor surgical procedures. She is also skilled in patient health monitoring, spirometry, and providing support during clinics such as coil fittings and cancer care.
Rhea’s well-rounded clinical knowledge is matched by her excellent organisational skills and a calm, compassionate approach to patient wellbeing.
In addition to her clinical duties, Rhea supports the practice by carrying out internal audits and ensuring best practices are upheld throughout the clinic. She plays a key role in maintaining smooth day-to-day operations and upholding the high standards that Yorkshire Skin Centre is known for.
Dedicated, professional, and always ready to help, Rhea is an invaluable member of the team who helps ensure that every patient receives attentive, safe, and seamless care.
Raman holds a Bachelor of Science with Bachelor of Education (BSc, BEd) from India, a qualification that integrates scientific studies and teaching education, equipping her with a strong foundation in both fields. She is currently building her career in the UK healthcare industry, bringing her hardworking, compassionate, and friendly nature to the team.
With valuable experience in customer service and patient care, Raman plays a key role in managing day-to-day operations, handling bookings, and ensuring a smooth and welcoming experience for all patients.
Her dedication to excellence and passion for healthcare and client well-being make her an integral part of our team.
Nichola is a highly skilled practitioner with a strong background in beauty and holistic therapies. She earned her Level 3 Beauty Therapy qualification with distinction from the Yorkshire College of Beauty and further enhanced her expertise with Level 4 Specialist training. She is also CIDESCO-certified, an internationally recognized gold standard in beauty and spa therapy, ensuring clients receive the highest level of care and treatments.
With 18 years of customer service experience, primarily in the hospitality industry, Nichola deeply understands the importance of building strong client relationships. She is known for her hardworking nature, punctuality, and dedication to continuous learning.
Passionate about skincare and wellness, Nichola is committed to expanding her expertise in a leading skin clinic. She believes that the knowledge and experience she gains will be invaluable in delivering the highest standard of care to her clients.
“ Your journey to skin perfection starts here. Leave your details, and our expert team will be in touch shortly.”
Dr Raj is the Founder and Clinical Director of the Yorkshire Aesthetic Clinic. With a successful career in aesthetics and a passion for patient care, Dr. Raj found that his expertise in facial aesthetics was a natural progression where he could showcase his warm and friendly demeanour alongside his exceptional skills.
Dr Raj specialises in advanced facial aesthetics, offering a wide range of treatments and skin procedures. With his extensive training and experience in both medical and aesthetic fields, he brings a unique perspective to delivering exceptional results.
Driven by his passion for patient satisfaction, Dr Raj established the Yorkshire Aesthetic Clinic. Located in a comfortable and welcoming environment, the clinic provides a luxurious and refined setting for patients seeking aesthetic treatments…. Read More
Fill in the details below and download free eBook
Hi, I’m Sarah Coates. I’m a Senior Change Manager, Hogan accredited coach, proud mum of 2 beautiful boys and am blessed with incredible friends to get into mischief with!
As I headed towards my 40th birthday, my life changed in a way that I could never have imagined and I came off that roller coaster with a new lease of life, with an understanding of the importance of self care and a huge amount of gratitude.
I love to travel, have a passion for interior design and enjoy sharing all that life has to offer with my beautiful family and fabulous friends.
If I’m not at work, you’ll find me playing at the park with my boys, enjoying the sun in Ibiza, listening to music or at the bar with a glass of fizz!
I am Senior Manager currently working for a small charity based in Leeds. My role is both professionally stimulating and challenging. No two days are ever the same. It includes aspects of advocacy, client rights, individual representation and inclusivity.
One milestone that resonates deeply is the creation of support groups, safe spaces where clients can openly share their stories. Witnessing the impact of these connections has fuelled my determination to improve the journey of others.
Through my own aesthetic endeavours , I’ve developed an unparalleled understanding of the emotional nuances tied to cosmetic treatments. This empathy allows me to offer sincere reassurance and guidance, especially during moments of vulnerability, in an era of aesthetic care that marries technical expertise with genuine human understanding and a person centred approach.
In my spare time I love the outdoors, enjoying hillwalking, taking part in sport, managing my bountiful allotment, and enhancing my cookery skills trying different cuisines (..no Masterchef yet).. and travel.
Dr. Khan earned her MD from Copenhagen University in 2003 and boasts over 20 years of medical expertise. Her early career was dedicated to dermatology and gynaecology across Yorkshire, and in 2011, she became a qualified GP from The Royal College of General Practitioners in London.
Dr. Khan’s commitment to women’s health is evident through her achievements. In 2012, she earned a Diploma in Sexual and Reproductive Health.
Excellent 470+ Reviews
on 
Mr Jeeva is celebrated for his mastery in aesthetic eyelid surgery. By adopting a patient-centric ethos, he delivers personalised treatments that amplify natural beauty and revive youthful vitality.
He has completed a prestigious fellowship at the Royal College of Surgeons, specialising in cosmetic plastic surgery. This rigorous training has endowed him with advanced techniques in aesthetic surgery, ensuring outcomes that are both beautiful and natural.
With a specialised fellowship in oculoplastic surgery, Mr Jeeva has honed his skills in delicate eyelid surgeries, tear duct disorders… Read More
Alana embarked on a career in nursing in 2008, following her comprehensive training and graduation. Since then, she has accrued a wealth of experience working in a variety of roles within both the NHS and private healthcare sectors. Known for her dedication and exceptional skills, Alana rapidly ascended into management, and for the past seven years, has been serving as a matron.
Throughout her career, she has consistently maintained her clinical competencies and academic studies. She initially earned a Bachelor’s degree in Nursing, later advancing her studies to become an Advanced Nurse Practitioner and Independent Prescriber. Her commitment to continuous professional development led to the completion of her full Master’s degree.
Alana’s passion for skin spurred her to further specialise in this field. In 2017, she pursued training in facial aesthetics, a decision that marked the beginning of a significant new chapter in her career. Since then, she has been affiliated with several leading skin clinics across the UK, where she has honed her expertise and built a reputation for excellence. Her extensive knowledge and experience in skin led her to become an expert medical trainer and since 2021, Alana has been imparting her knowledge at an award-winning training academy. Previously, she held the prestigious position of National Trainer for SKN Clinics, where she educated a variety of medical professionals, including plastic surgeons.
While Alana enjoys all aspects of skin, she has a particular fondness for medical-grade skin care, which she believes offers unparalleled benefits to patients. Her dedication to patient care and her professional knowledge and skills, make her a standout figure in this field. Through her work, Alana has positively impacted numerous lives, helping patients achieve their best skin health and aesthetic goals. In her trainer role, Alana is known for her meticulous approach and her ability to convey complex information in an accessible manner, ensuring that her trainees are well-equipped to deliver high-quality care. Her leadership and mentorship have been crucial in elevating the standards of practice within the industry.
Alana’s career is a testament to her unwavering commitment to excellence in nursing and aesthetics. Her professional journey reflects a blend of clinical expertise, academic achievement, and a genuine passion for improving patient care. As she continues to advance her career, Alana remains dedicated to staying at the forefront of the field, continually enhancing her skills and knowledge to provide the best possible care to her patients and to train the next generation of skin care professionals.
With over 15 years of experience in the NHS, Mr Nikos Lymperopoulos specialises in reconstructive and cosmetic plastic surgery. He graduated from the University of Athens Medical in 2009 and completed his basic surgical training in Liverpool. After earning a PhD with honours in DIEP clinical anatomy research in 2013, he completed advanced surgical training in plastic surgery across Yorkshire and Liverpool, including a cosmetic fellowship in the North West.
Mr Lymperopoulos further honed his expertise with two prestigious breast reconstruction microsurgical fellowships at The Royal Marsden Hospital in Chelsea and Guy’s & St Thomas’ Hospitals in London. His extensive experience in breast reconstruction after mastectomy provides a profound understanding of surgical anatomy and aesthetics, benefiting procedures such as breast augmentation, reduction, and uplift. Additionally, he is highly skilled in abdominoplasty, often enhanced with liposuction or muscle repair, especially post-pregnancy.
Specialising in skin cancer treatment, he adeptly handles Basal Cell Carcinoma, Squamous Cell Carcinoma, and Melanoma. He offers a comprehensive range of breast and body cosmetic surgeries, including breast augmentation with implants or fat transfer, breast reduction, uplift, tummy tucks, and liposuction. Combined procedures, such as “mommy makeovers,” are also available to restore post-pregnancy body contours.
Trained in both surgical and non-surgical facial rejuvenation, Mr Lymperopoulos performs eyelid surgery (blepharoplasty), as well as toxin and filler injections. Currently, he serves as a Consultant at Mid Yorkshire Teaching Hospitals, specialising in breast reconstruction and skin cancer surgery, and holds an Honorary Senior Lecturer position at the University of Leeds.
An advocate for education and research, Mr Lymperopoulos has over 20 publications in peer-reviewed journals and a PhD in microsurgical breast reconstruction. As an Education Lead, he developed “The Yorkshire FRCS (Plast) Course” to aid UK trainees in their exit exams. His innovative training simulator was awarded first place in Innovation at the BAPRAS meeting in 2021.
Blepharoplasty, also known as an eye lift, is a surgical procedure performed on the eyelids to improve their appearance. It can address concerns like:
Excess skin on the upper eyelids: This can obstruct vision and create a hooded appearance.
Bags under the lower eyelids: These can make you look tired or aged.
Drooping lower eyelids: This can also obstruct vision and contribute to a tired appearance.
Types of Blepharoplasty:
Upper blepharoplasty: This addresses concerns with the upper eyelids, removing excess skin and sometimes fat or muscle tissue.
Lower blepharoplasty: This addresses concerns with the lower eyelids, removing excess fat or skin and sometimes repositioning tissues.
Asian blepharoplasty: This addresses specific concerns related to the anatomy of Asian eyelids, creating a more defined crease.
