I have a brown ring around my mouth

I have a brown ring around my mouth,,it started above my upper lip it looks like a mustache but it isnt,,it spread now around my mouth. When I nake a photo it comes out yellow in color.I have tried everything over the counter. I have had this now for 3 years, I am 35 and light skinned so this really stands out. I would love to know what it is and how to get rid of it.

[Bhupinder Kaur, MD]

Hello,
This can be due to hyperpigmentation or melasma skin. Melasma is caused by hormonal changes, which stimulate a temporary increase in your body's production of melanin. People with darker complexions are more prone to this condition than people with lighter skin.

Treatment options include treatment with vitamin C and hydrocortisone, peel with carbon dioxide snow and alexandrite and ND-Yag Q-Switched laser treatment preceded by a hydroquinone-based application. Please discuss these options with your dermatologist.

It is very difficult to precisely confirm a diagnosis without examination and investigations and the answer is based on the medical information provided. For exact diagnosis, you are requested to consult your doctor. I sincerely hope that helps. Take care and please do keep me posted on how you are doing.