Causes of Hyperpigmentation After Shaving Upper Lips
Hyperpigmentation or skin discoloration after shaving can occur due to several factors. Here are some common reasons you may not know about that behind hyperpigmentation after shaving your upper lips:
- Irritation and Inflammation can cause post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH).
If you have sensitive skin, it is most likely to be irritated by the shaving process leading to irritation and inflamed pores. This inflammation triggers an increase in melanin production, leading to hyperpigmentation in the upper lips area.
To reduce irritation you can use any oil or pre-shave cream before shaving your facial hair.
Click here on Amazon to see a Dermaplaning Oil that is applied before and after shaving. This creates a protective barrier between your skin and the blade, protecting you from any cuts and bruises. Its formulation prevents ingrown hair, irritation, razor bumps, and hyperpigmentation.
- Dull blades can contribute to hyperpigmentation after shaving due to increased friction.
Inefficient hair removal leads to ingrown hairs, increased pressure applied during shaving, and the need for multiple passes over the same area. These are all factors that lead to skin irritation, inflammation, and micro-injuries, which trigger post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH).
Hence, it’s important to use sharp blades for a clean, smooth shave and replace them regularly. Click here to see the Gillette Venus Dermaplaning Tool Kit, Which contains 5 blades with a protective guard, to protect against cuts and bruises.
- Poor sterilization and shaving with used blades
Shaving your upper lips with used blades and carrying out no proper sterilization of the blades can be risky as it can cause an infection. Which will later on lead to pimples and even acne breakouts, resulting in hyperpigmentation due to an increase in melanin production.
- Razor burn is a form of skin irritation
Which is characterized by redness, swelling, and sometimes small bumps. In some cases, the skin may darken as part of the healing process, resulting in hyperpigmentation.
- Poor Precare before shaving
Poor pre-care before shaving, such as inadequate exfoliation, lack of moisturization, insufficient hair softening, failure to cleanse the skin, and ignoring skin sensitivities, can contribute to hyperpigmentation. These factors can also lead to a rough shaving surface, increased friction, skin irritation, and inflammation.
- Poor aftercare
When shaving sensitive skin like your upper lips, poor aftercare can contribute to hyperpigmentation. Failure to treat the skin accordingly can leave the skin dry and vulnerable to irritation and post-hyperpigmentation. You need to ensure proper moisturization, and protection from sun exposure, and maintain a consistent post-shave skincare routine. See below for my favorite Amazon Pick.
- Shaving Incorrectly
Shaving in the wrong direction can sometimes cause ingrown hairs. This is where the hair curls back and grows into the skin instead of outward. Ingrown hairs can lead to inflammation and pigmentation changes in the upper lip area.
- Post-shaving trauma
Trauma to the skin causes an increase of melanin production. This is usually temporary and would last until the skin returns to its normal (calm) state.
Coconut Oil After Shaving – Benefits & How to Use Correctly
- Direct Sun exposure
Sun exposure can exacerbate hyperpigmentation after shaving. The UV rays can stimulate melanin production, making the pigmented areas appear darker. If you don’t protect your skin from the sun after shaving your upper lips, the hyperpigmentation can become more noticeable. Hence, we advise you to use good sunscreen before heading out.
However, everyone’s skin is different, and the reasons behind hyperpigmentation can vary from person to person. So if matters do get out of hand it would be wise to visit a dermatologist for better advice.
Does Shaving Upper Lip Cause Darkness
No, once done correctly shaving the upper lip does not cause darkness. Shaving only removes the hair above the skin’s surface and does not affect the production of melanin. However, there are contributing factors that cause temporary darkening/hyperpigmentation in the area.
Post-Hyperpigmentation may occur to most of us but it can be avoided. This temporary discoloration will last for about 1 – 2 days and fade naturally. Hence proper shaving techniques and post-shave care are priorities when it comes to minimizing irritation and maintaining the natural tone of your skin.
Related Articles
Shaving Upper Lips- No Bumps, Ingrown hair & Pimples
