Pink Lip Hacks: Myth or Reality?
For many, pink lips are a sign of natural beauty or good health. But fashion trends change with time. For example, the type of lips that were popular even a decade ago is different now. There is a common belief that pink lips are healthy. Many people think that this color of lips is healthier than any other color of lips. But the interesting thing is that there is no scientific evidence for this. The only exception is when the color of naturally pink lips suddenly changes. The characteristics of healthy lips are free of cracks or sores, moist or hydrated and smooth.
Why do lips turn dark?
Like skin color, lip color also varies from person to person. Those with relatively dark skin usually have darker lips. This is normal. It is mainly caused by an excess of a pigment called melanin in the skin. Lips can also turn dark due to hyperpigmentation due to excess melanin. Hyperpigmentation is when some areas of the skin become darker than the surrounding area. Those with naturally dark lips can temporarily make their lips look pinker with home remedies. However, people with hyperpigmentation may benefit more from skin treatments. The main causes of lip pigmentation are smoking, which can cause discoloration of the lips and other parts of the body (such as the hands). Nicotine reduces blood flow to the skin, which can reduce lip color and accelerate skin aging.
Excessive exposure to sunlight can also cause hyperpigmentation. Antimalarial drugs and antibiotics such as minocycline can cause dark lips.
Sometimes dark lips are caused by medical conditions such as Addison’s disease.
Many people get dark lips during pregnancy.
How to make lips pink naturally
The following home remedies can help keep lips moisturized and smooth and temporarily increase blood flow to the lips, giving them a pinkish tinge:
Lip scrubs Regular light exfoliation or removal of dead skin can help get rid of dry and rough lips. This increases blood circulation, which temporarily makes the lips appear pink.
How to make a scrub at home: Mix sugar or salt with an oil like sweet almond or coconut oil to make a scrub.
Directions for use:
Gently massage into dry lips.
Rinse and pat dry.
Be sure to apply a lip balm afterward.
Caution: Lip skin is sensitive, so don’t scrub too hard. Don’t use scrubs more than once or twice a week. Scrubs made for the face or body should not be used, as they can be too harsh on the lips.
Lip massage
Massage helps increase blood circulation to the lips, which can make them look rosier. Gently massage your lips with a food-grade oil like coconut oil once a day. Then rinse. Or leave the oil on your lips before bed at night, which will also moisturize.
Turmeric and coconut oil mask
Some people claim to have improved the health and appearance of their lips by using a turmeric lip mask. Turmeric may have properties that reduce hyperpigmentation. To make this mask, mix turmeric powder with coconut oil. Apply the mixture to your lips and leave it on for 15 minutes. Then wash it off and pat dry. However, turmeric can temporarily stain the skin around your lips with yellow.
Lip balm with peppermint oil
Some cosmetic companies use peppermint oil in lip balms to give them a natural pink glow. The menthol in this oil can dilate blood vessels, which can temporarily give your lips a slight reddish or pinkish tinge. The American Academy of Dermatology recommends avoiding menthol or peppermint on chapped lips. It can cause irritation.
Tips to prevent dryness or discoloration
In addition to temporarily making your lips look pink, there are some steps you can take to reduce the risk of dryness, irritation, and hyperpigmentation:
Using sunscreen on your lips and skin every day is one of the most effective ways to prevent hyperpigmentation and sunburn. When going outside, use a lip balm with SPF 30 or higher and titanium oxide or zinc oxide. Reapply it every 2 hours.
Quitting smoking helps reduce lip darkening and skin aging. Drink enough water to keep your lips moisturized.
Use a lip balm with ingredients like shea butter or petroleum.
Avoid licking, biting, or picking at your lips. Make it a habit to use lip balm to avoid these habits.
