What is this brown line on my bottom lip? (Photo)

Question

This is not something I was born with but I noticed it start to appear as I got older, what could this be? I have hid this for so long and always been curious? Is there treatment for this, or is it irreversible?

Jason Emer, MD · Answer

I recommend getting a formal evaluation with a cosmetic dermatologist. Hyperpigmentation can be improved with a combination of Cosmelan, lasers, Aerolase, microneedling/prp, skin lightening, peels, and skin care. Sun protection is essential. See an expert. Best, Dr. Emer

Raffy Karamanoukian, MD, FACS · Answer

Melasma and age spots can be due to hormones, aging, sun exposure, thyroid dysfunction, and genetics. Treatments range from IPL to laser therapy; but pigmentation may recur if not complemented with topical creams to stabilize the pigment cells.

I would suggest starting with Melarase Brightening Kit with Melaclenz, Melapads, Melarase AM, and Melarase PM to help stabilize pigmentation and reduce recurrence. Once started, an active protocol that includes Covalent peels, IPL, fractional laser, and microneedling can further remove pigmentation.
Best, 
Dr. Karamanoukian
Realself100 Surgeon

Jeff Angobaldo, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question.   I would recommend to start using hydroquinone 4% morning and night six weeks prior to laser treatment. Fractional treatment is very effective for suppressing discoloration and evening out skintone.  Skinpen which is a microneedling device that would also be beneficial for getting rid of melasma.  The microneedling treatment helps to wake up your natural growth factors, shrink your pores, fade discoloration and acne scars, and help increase collagen and elastin production. You would do a treatment every 4 weeks and stay out of the sun as much as possible and always wear spf 50 broad sprectrum.  Always consult with your physician first before starting a treatment.

Amy Miller, MD · Answer

It is best that you get it checked out--worse case scenario is that it is a skin cancer.  HOWEVER, it is more likely a labial lentigo--in other words a sun spot on the lower lip.  The lower lip is prone to this since it get more direct sunlight than the top lip and it is hard to keep spf on our lips.  I have one in the exact same place--it can be lightened with laser treatment but probably will not go away.  I have faded mine so its hard to see--but still there darn it!
Make sure you have it looked at to be safe.
Best,
Amy

Lani Warren, MD · Answer

Hello,

I would recommend seeing a Dermatologist to be able to determine what exactly is on your lip.

Best wishes to you,

What is this brown line on my bottom lip? (Photo)

Answers (8)

Answer: Sun spot

Answer: Sun spot

Answer: Spot on bottom of the lip

Answer: Spot on bottom of the lip

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What is this brown line on my bottom lip? (Photo)

Answers (8)

Answer: Sun spot

Answer: Sun spot

Answer: Spot on bottom of the lip

Answer: Spot on bottom of the lip

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Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Laser Resurfacing

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