Upper Lip Discoloration

I'm 20, and my upper lip has bothered me for about 11years. I have eczema and around the age of 8-9 I assume it spread to my upper lip. Over the years it would itch, burn, and peal. Finally it is under control, but it is has since been discolored for all these years. I am very self-conscious about it, but have pretty much learned to just live with it seeing as it won't seem to go away. Is there anything I can do naturally? (dermatologist give me the same advice and say they can't help ? ? ? ) I am African American and my skin is brown while my upper lip is quite a bit darker and it appears as if I have a mustache. I just want it to be lighter, thanks. (I am female, and do not take any medication, only a multi vitamin)

[Bhupinder Kaur, MD]

Hello,
It can be due to hyperpigmentation lips. To prevent blackness of the lips, smoking and chewing, biting or pricking the skin of the lips should be avoided. The most effective solution for treating dark lips is alexandrite and ND-Yag Q-Switched laser treatment. 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.