Is there a way to remove grayish green pigment on my upper lip? (Photo)

Question

9 o’clock shadow/mustache, I’m looking for a solution that is somewhat permanent, my upper lip has a pigment that isn’t like that of my skin, it’s almost grayish green, I’m one who likes a clean shave yet it always remains there which face considering my diamond shape. Is there a way to remove it? I know laser hair Is supposed to help, I don’t mind if the solution requires me not to grow a mustache, etc I just want it off

Anna Chacon, MD, FAAD · Answer

Hello,

Thank you for your question and for sharing your concern. The grayish-green pigment on your upper lip can be quite frustrating, especially when you're aiming for a clean-shaven look. Here are some potential solutions you might consider:

Laser Hair Removal: This can be effective in reducing the appearance of hair follicles that may be contributing to the shadow. Laser hair removal targets the pigment in the hair and can significantly reduce or eliminate hair growth over a series of treatments.

Topical Treatments: There are topical creams that can help lighten hyperpigmentation. Ingredients such as hydroquinone, kojic acid, and azelaic acid are commonly used to lighten dark spots and even out skin tone. However, these should be used under the guidance of a dermatologist.

Chemical Peels: A chemical peel can help to remove the outer layers of the skin, which may reduce pigmentation. This treatment involves applying a chemical solution to the skin, which causes it to exfoliate and eventually peel off.

Microdermabrasion: This is a less invasive procedure that exfoliates the skin and can help to lighten pigmentation over time. It works by removing the top layer of dead skin cells.

Camouflage Makeup: While not a permanent solution, high-coverage makeup designed for hyperpigmentation can effectively conceal the area for a clean-shaven look.

It's important to consult with a dermatologist to determine the best course of action for your specific skin type and condition. They can provide a personalized treatment plan that addresses both the pigmentation and any underlying causes.

Raffy Karamanoukian, MD, FACS · Answer

Our office has many different treatments for scars depending on the depth of atrophy or hypertrophy. Scars require a combination approach using our HI DEF protocol which uses a combination of lasers, topical scar modulation, and RF treatments to pixelate scars, improve contour, reduce hyperpigmentation, and improve the visibility of the scars so that they are no longer visible in ambient light. Everyone has a unique pattern of scarring and we employ our HIDEF technique to improve texture, color, contour, and topography. We often use a combination of treatments that begin with a careful examination to examine the micro texturing of the acne scars. Atrophic scars and indented  scars can benefit from injectable fillers such as Radiesse, Sculptra, and Restylane with or without subcision to remove tethered scars and atrophic depression. Hyper-redness in scars can be improved with V beam laser, Excel V, BBL, IPL, and Venus RF to improve  the redness and reduce the visibility of deep scars. Fractional Thulium laser and clear & brilliant can also reduce the inflammation and redness of the scar when combined with topical therapy. Fractional lasers such as Fraxel, erbium, and CO2 laser can be combined with radio frequency and also fractional RF to improve textual issues and microtopography. Subcision and TCA cross are also used for deep ice pick scars and narrow valley scars in order to improve the micro texture.  Above all, our combination approach with our clinical nurses and board-certified plastic surgeons can improve the quality of your skin by using at home Melarase creams combined with PRP treatments in our office to improve your skin quality and tone. I recommend getting a formal evaluation with an experienced team of experts in order to reduce your scarring.
 
Finally, hyperpigmentation of scars can be improved with at-home Melarase AM, Melarase PM, and Melapads to help reduce active PIH and melanin deposition.

Best, 
Dr. Karamanoukian
Realself100 Surgeon

Is there a way to remove grayish green pigment on my upper lip? (Photo)

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Is there a way to remove grayish green pigment on my upper lip? (Photo)

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Everything you need to know about Skin Lightening

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.