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Lip color can be greatly affected by habits like smoking, drinking excess coffee or even spending too much time being exposed to the sun. Just like the rest of the skin on the human body, lip color can be changed by a change in the concentration of melanin, which is the coloring agent for the epidermis (or the upper layer of the skin). The melanin is a combination of two coloring substances that are created by the melanocytes, which are cells located inside the skin's various layers. When differing levels of these substances are created, the resulting concentration of melanin could give either a darker or lighter color than the original or natural color of the person. Staying out in the sun too long will cause the melanin to appear darker and will help the skin fight against the ultraviolet rays of the sun more competently. This will reduce the risk of cell damage and skin cancer, and it is a very important mechanism of the skin to perform these protective actions. If the skin darkening is caused by smoking, then it is fairly obvious what actions must be taken. Even so, the complete stop of nicotine will not return your lips to their former appearance but will reduce the current dark complexion and prevent it from becoming worse. It is also very important that you completely trust your cosmetics manufacturer as reactions to certain chemicals used in the creation of lipsticks and lip balm is also a very real possibility. Make sure that your cosmetics are made by a reliable and reputed company and also make sure that you throw them away if they have passed their expiry date.
In order to reduce the dark coloration on your lips, try applying a mixture of lemon juice and glycerin to your lips daily instead of looking for a quick fix lipstick. Lemon juice is a natural bleaching agent and will help significantly in the reduction of the darkness on your upper lip. Exfoliation is also beneficial as it will help get rid of the dead skin on your lips and allow the new skin to come to the fore. Try creating a lip scrub with honey, almond and sugar, as almond is a good moisturizing agent and honey will prevent the damage done to your lips by free radicals. Keeping your body hydrated is also very important for your lips, so make sure that you drink plenty of water throughout the day and apply petroleum jelly to your lips before retiring for the night.
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