Advertisement
The upper lip discoloration is caused by factors like sun exposure, hormones and medications
If you’re an outdoor enthusiast, you know how important it is to protect your skin while you’re in the sun.
Advertisement
Cleveland Clinic is a non-profit academic medical center. Advertising on our site helps support our mission. We do not endorse non-Cleveland Clinic products or services. Policy
Not doing so can put you at risk for sunburn, photodamage, premature aging or even skin cancer. Another thing that can happen: You could end up with a melasma mustache, also known as a sun mustache.
While a melasma mustache isn’t on the same level as skin cancer or sunburn, it can still be bothersome and unsightly, leaving you wondering, Why is my upper lip dark?
Dermatologist Asfa Akhtar, DO, shares the science behind melasma mustaches and gives a few tips for how you can prevent them.
Before we go into the formation of melasma mustaches, we have to take a step back and talk about their main component — melanin.
“Melasma mustaches are the result of excess melanin. Melanin is the substance that gives our eyes and skin their color,” says Dr. Akhtar. “Melanocytes, which are pigment cells that reside in the innermost layer of the epidermis, are responsible for producing melanin. When excess melanin is produced, it causes the skin to darken. The result of this is known as hyperpigmentation.”
When you have upper lip discoloration after sun exposure, you’re left with a melasma mustache.
“Melasma is also known as chloasma or mask of pregnancy,” notes Dr. Akhtar. “But you don’t have to be pregnant to get melasma.”
She adds that melasma is a commonly acquired pigmentary disorder and is essentially hyperpigmentation. Melasma can appear as symmetrical or asymmetrical darkened patches on exposed areas of your body, especially your face.
So, what are some melasma mustache causes?
“A melasma mustache is caused by a complex interplay of sun exposure, family history, hormonal influences, thyroid disease and medications that lead to molecular signaling within the skin,” Dr. Akhtar explains. “The result is excessive melanin in the inner and outer layers of the skin.”
She also points out that skin care products can contribute to the development of melasma mustaches.
Excessive or improper use of ingredients like hydroquinone, retinol and alpha hydroxy acids can make melasma mustaches worse. If you’re using these products, she recommends talking to a board-certified dermatologist to determine a best course of action.
Melasma mustaches are often hard to treat because they can recur (come back) frequently. Dr. Akhtar suggests a multimodal approach to successfully treat this skin condition.
Treatment regimens usually include sun avoidance and/or sun protection, one or more topical agents, oral medications and light or laser therapy.
But she notes that some treatment options for melasma mustaches can actually make them worse.
“Treatment options for melasma can include whitening agents, chemical peels, lasers and light therapy,” Dr. Akhtar says. “However, some of these solutions can cause adverse effects like spots of hyperpigmentation, acne, irritation, as well as rebound hyperpigmentation — a form of the condition that is much harder to treat.”
Advertisement
Lastly, tranexamic acid is a promising treatment option for people whose skin doesn’t respond to the standard measures above. This off-label medication consists of amino acids and may be administered as a pill or cream, depending on your preference.
If you’re looking for ways to get rid of melasma, again, talk to a board-certified dermatologist first. They can help prevent additional complications and find treatment options that line up with your cosmetic goals.
Limiting sun exposure and wearing sunscreen, especially on your face, can help prevent melasma mustaches.
“When choosing a sunscreen, I recommend one that has physical blockers such as zinc oxide and titanium dioxide,” Dr. Akhtar says. “You can even find physical sunscreens that contain iron oxide as an inactive ingredient making them tinted so they won’t leave a white film on the skin. Physical sunscreen sits on top of the skin, so it physically shields it and deflects harmful UV rays.”
But she adds that just applying sunscreen isn’t enough protection. You’ll need to add a stylish, yet helpful, accessory as well.
“Hats with a wide brim that are rated for sun protection should be used. Look for an ultraviolet protection factor (UPF) of 50 plus.”
Advertisement
Learn more about our editorial process.
Advertisement
The results aren’t great, and the risks — like vision problems — aren’t worth it
During an annual exam, your provider will check for any moles or spots that have changed in size, color or shape
Dry air, harsh soaps and even some medications can bring on an itch, but in some cases, itchiness can be a sign of an underlying condition
Moisturize often, take oatmeal baths, use Epsom salts and follow a healthy diet to help reduce your symptoms
Adding a little milk to your bath can leave your skin smooth, silky and refreshed
Babies shouldn’t wear sunscreen before 6 months old, so opt for shade and cooler parts of the day for outdoor fun time
Wear properly fitted shoes, break them in ahead of time and wear moisture-wicking socks
Topical treatments — and even some cosmetic procedures — may help reduce the appearance of this crinkled-paper look
Focus on your body’s metabolic set point by eating healthy foods, making exercise a part of your routine and reducing stress
PFAS chemicals may make life easier — but they aren’t always so easy on the human body
While there’s little risk in trying this hair care treatment, there isn’t much science to back up the claims