Complete wellness extends beyond a fit body, and this includes taking care of our lips. For individuals who smoke weed, a common concern that arises pertains to the discoloration or darkening of the lips. This change can sometimes give the lips a black or darkened appearance, caused primarily by the chemicals present in the smoke.
Let’s explore some tips and remedies to help reverse the darkening of lips from smoking weed and restore them to their natural color.
Understanding the Cause
The darkening of lips after smoking weed, or any substance, is a direct result of the toxins present in smoke. Specifically, Nicotine and tar present in the smoke can cause discoloration and even damage the lips’ surface. Although weed itself doesn’t contain nicotine, the mode of smoking (like joints or blunts rolled in tobacco leaves) often does.
Moreover, the heat produced while smoking may burn the delicate skin of the lips, contributing further to discoloration. The reduction in oxygen supply, coupled with repetitive lip movement while puffing, can also add friction leading to black lips.
Holistic Remedies
1. Hydration
The main benefit from hydration is improved skin health. Drinking plenty of water can help restore the natural color of darkened lips. It is advisable to consume at least 8-10 glasses of water daily.
2. Healthy Diet
Incorporating foods rich in vitamins A, C, and E in your diet can help lighten the lips. These vitamins are essential for skin health and can help repair and rejuvenate lip skin.
3. Lemon and Honey
Lemon has natural bleaching properties, while honey acts as a moisturizer. Applying a mixture of both to the lips for 5-10 minutes daily can help lighten them.
4. Sugar Scrub
Creating a lip scrub with granulated sugar and olive oil can help remove dead skin cells from the lips, enhancing their natural color.
5. Quit or Limit Smoking
The most effective way to get rid of black lips from smoking is to quit or at least limit the habit. Removing the source of the problem gives your lips the best chance to heal and regenerate.
6. Regular Lip Care
Keeping your lips moisturized with a good quality lip balm containing SPF can prevent further darkening from sun exposure.
While these remedies can certainly help, it is important to remember that everyone’s body reacts differently. Recovery times will vary based on the person’s individual physiology, the length of time they’ve been smoking, and the frequency of smoking.
Medical Intervention
If the discoloration persists, it is advisable to seek medical help. A dermatologist can provide professional treatments like microdermabrasion, chemical peels, or laser therapy to treat severely darkened lips.
In conclusion, restoring lips from black to their natural color essentially comes down to good oral health, a balanced diet, and natural remedies. Of course, limiting or completely stopping smoking would provide the best results. Always remember, ‘Prevention is better than cure.’