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Will applying Retin A reduce the darkness of my lips?

I have always had lips with dark edges. Recently, they seem to have become darker! I am 28, and do not smoke. I use sunscreen regularly. I have very recently started using Retin A. I have read that applying almond oil helps, but I want to be sure of what I do. Thank you, in advance, for your time.

Doctor Answers 2

Darkness of the lips

June 26th, 2014
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Retin-A will have no effect on the darkness of your lips.  I am not aware of any procedure that will correct your problem.  
Jeffrey Zwiren, MD


Atlanta Plastic Surgeon
4.7 out of 5 stars 15 reviews

Dark Lip Edges

July 24th, 2014
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Lips with dark edges, called hyper-pigmentation, is a feature of ethnicity. With this being said, it can make it difficult to treat patients with darker skin tones. This darkness typically gets more accentuated with sun exposure, so make sure that you are moderating any UV light exposure during the Summer.

Retin-A can help to lighten skin of any cause, especially when combined with hydroquinone and a very mild corticosteroid, like hydrocortisone, for a short period of time. In the botanical category, things like arbutin and licorice root have the most data on the holistic side for skin lightening.
Bobby Buka, MD

Bobby Buka, MD
New York Dermatologist
5.0 out of 5 stars 7 reviews

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These answers are for educational purposes and should not be relied upon as a substitute for medical advice you may receive from your physician. If you have a medical emergency, please call 911. These answers do not constitute or initiate a patient/doctor relationship.