how to get rid of blackness around mouth - #23177
I am really struggling with this blackness around my mouth, and I don’t know what to do about it. I’ve tried different creams and scrubs, but nothing seems to work! It all started a few months ago, and at first, I thought it was just dry skin, but it got worse. I thought maybe it was from my lipstick or something, but even when I go without makeup, it doesn't go away. I’ve read online about different potential causes, like maybe it’s hyperpigmentation or something related to my diet? I don’t know! I eat pretty healthy, though I do love my coffee, and maybe that could be causing it? I also am not sure if it’s from irritation or allergies, since I've been around some strong chemicals. People have also mentioned it could be due to dehydration, but I drink a fair amount of water every day. Is there a strong remedy or a specific type of doctor I should see about this blackness around my mouth? Is there any way to really know how to get rid of blackness around mouth once and for all? I feel like this is really affecting how I feel about myself. Any advice would be really helpful!
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Doctors' responses
Darkening around the mouth can be distressing, and it’s great that you’re seeking a solution. Identifying the root of the problem is essential. Hyperpigmentation is a common cause and can result from various factors like sun exposure, inflammation, or irritation from products. Given that you’ve been exposed to strong chemicals, they could indeed contribute to skin darkening through irritation or even an allergic reaction. Considering your suspicions about diet, coffee isn’t a usual suspect for causing pigmentation. However, dehydrating beverages can affect your skin over time. Ensure you counteract that with additional water intake. Reviewing the ingredients in your skincare and makeup is wise, ensuring nothing known to cause irritation or allergies, such as fragrances or harsh chemicals, is in the mix. Gentle cleansers and moisturizers, especially those formulated for sensitive skin, might help. Since over-the-counter products haven’t worked, it might be time to visit a dermatologist. They can provide a more precise diagnosis and suggest targeted treatments like prescription creams containing hydroquinone or retinoids, which reconcile skin tone. Chemical peels or laser therapy may also be an option, depending on the cause and severity. In the meantime, it’s crucial to consistently apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen, as exposure to UV rays can exacerbate pigmentation. If dryness was a factor, ensuring you use a good quality moisturizer can aid in maintaining skin barrier integrity, which can prevent further darkening. Key is to be patient, as correcting skin issues can take time. Visiting a dermatologist will be the most direct way to tackle this problem based on an exact diagnosis.
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