Natural Home Remedies for Dark Lips

Dark lips are most commonly caused by cigarette smoking or heavy tea and coffee drinking, though in some cases, dark lips or dark spots or patches on the lips can be signs of skin cancer, which should be immediately checked by a doctor. However, for dark lips that are of no serious medical concern, there are some natural home remedies that can help to lighten their appearance. However, these remedies have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration, so talk with your doctor or dermatologist before trying any.

Glycerin and Lemon Juice

According to Julie Gabriel, author of "The Green Beauty Guide," a mixture of glycerin and lemon juice can be applied to dark lips to help lighten them. Combine 1 tablespoon glycerin with ½ tablespoon lemon juice in a small bottle or jar and shake to combine. Gently massage a small amount of the mixture onto the lips. There is no need to rinse the lips with water after using this treatment unless it causes irritation or redness. Unused portions of this mixture can be stored in the refrigerator for five days and used as regularly as needed.

live Oil and Lime Essential Oil

Ann Worwood, author of "The Complete Book of Essential Oils and Aromatherapy,” recommends a mixture of olive oil and lime essential oil. Combine 4 tablespoons olive oil with ½ teaspoon lime essential oil and shake or stir to combine. Apply a thick layer on the lips and leave on for 30 minutes. Rinse with cool water. This treatment can be repeated up to three times per day. Unused portions of the mixture can be stored in a cool, dark place for up to 90 days as long as you shake the bottle before each use to recombine the ingredients.

Almond Oil and Honey

A mixture of almond oil and honey also works, says Vasant Lad, author of "The Complete Book of Ayurvedic Home Remedies." Combine 1½ tablespoons almond oil and ½ teaspoon honey in a small jar and stir to combine. Gently massage a thick layer of the mixture onto the lips. There is no need to rinse unless the mixture is irritating. Leftover mixture can be stored in a cool, dark and dry place for up to seven days and used up to five times per day.