Genetically dark upper lips right from my childhood, is there any way to decrease pigmentation? (Photo)

Hello! My name is Jessica, I am a physician assistant, and one of the providers at Aesthetic Skin in Winnetka and Chicago. This is a great question. I understand how frustrating it can be to deal with persistent pigmentation on your upper lip, especially when you’ve tried various treatments without success. Since you’ve already used exfoliation and products like kojic acid, niacinamide, and tranexamic acid without noticeable results, it might be time to consider more targeted options. I recommend treatments including chemical peels, laser therapy, or microneedling, which may effectively reduce pigmentation over time. Additionally, consider looking into prescription-strength topical treatments, such as hydroquinone or retinoids, which might be more effective than over-the-counter products. You could also use tinted lip balms or lipsticks with brightening pigments to create the appearance of a more even tone. Remember to always apply sunscreen to protect the area from further darkening, as sun exposure can exacerbate pigmentation. I hope this helps and best of luck!