We’ve already reached the final blog of the Pigment Talks series. Over the past weeks, we’ve discussed PIH, melasma, sunspots, and pigmentation caused by the wrong products. Today, I want to highlight a form of hyperpigmentation that’s often overlooked, yet so recognizable: pigmentation around the eyes and mouth.

With many of our clients (and online followers), I notice that these areas cause a lot of insecurity. A dull, greyish cast around the mouth, or a dark shadow under the eyes. It’s hard to conceal, and it often feels like it “just is what it is.” But did you know that this is often not purely genetic, but can be triggered by very specific factors?

In this blog, I’ll explain:
– why these areas are more prone to discoloration
– the most common causes in melanin rich skin
– and how the right approach can make a real difference

Let’s talk pigment. 💛

What is periorbital and perioral hyperpigmentation?

Periorbital and perioral hyperpigmentation are forms of discoloration around the eyes and mouth. Although they’re often mentioned together, they’re two different zones with their own characteristics.

– Periorbital hyperpigmentation happens around the eyes, usually under the eyes, and is also known as dark circles. In melanin rich skin, this is often not due to tiredness, but a buildup of pigment that has developed gradually.

– Perioral hyperpigmentation occurs around the mouth — for example above the lip or just below the mouth corners. It often appears as a greyish brown haze that dulls the natural glow of the face.

What do these two zones have in common?
The skin there is thinner, more delicate, and more sensitive to internal and external influences — such as hormones, friction (from makeup removal or shaving), the wrong products, or not protecting these areas well from the sun.
In melanin rich skin, where pigment cells are more active, these zones respond to imbalance more quickly with discoloration.

I see this form of hyperpigmentation so often in the clinic. And I understand why it feels frustrating. The skin around your mouth or eyes is something you see every time you look in the mirror. Some clients even tell me they avoid wearing makeup because it only makes the discoloration more noticeable.
And honestly? I get it — I’ve had moments myself where I thought, “Why does this keep happening specifically here?”

But it’s not random. Periorbital and perioral hyperpigmentation often arise from triggers we underestimate. From hormones to nutrition, and even from constant friction to… toothpaste.

These areas are more sensitive, more delicate, and react more quickly to disruption. The skin is thinner, has fewer oil glands, and is more prone to irritation. And when irritation occurs, the melanocytes in these zones — just like anywhere else — respond with increased pigment.

So let’s take a closer look together. So that you understand where it comes from and what you can do about it.

How does it develop?

The skin around the mouth and eyes is extra thin and sensitive. This makes the area more prone to becoming unbalanced. With repeated friction (like rubbing your eyes, brushing your teeth, or shaving the upper lip), or using products that are too strong, micro-inflammation can develop.
And that micro-inflammation is exactly what triggers melanocytes in these zones. They create more pigment to protect the skin.

In melanin rich skin, this effect is more pronounced because more active melanocytes are present naturally.
Think of a client who constantly dabs their eyes dry with tissues, or someone using a lip balm containing irritating fragrances — without realizing it. The skin is constantly defending itself. And as you now know, defense often equals pigment.

What can you do?

🧼 Use gentle products
Choose skincare without strong fragrances or irritating ingredients — especially around the eyes and mouth. Think gentle cleansers, fragrance free balms, and hydrating creams that strengthen the barrier rather than disrupt it.

👐 Avoid excessive friction
Pat, don’t rub. When removing makeup, drying your face, or cleaning your eyes — be gentle. Repeated friction can lead to pigmentation over time.

☀️ Protect from the sun
Use SPF daily — even on cloudy days and especially around the eyes and mouth. UV light worsens pigmentation in these areas extremely quickly.
Your skin remembers every ray of sun.

🌿 Hydrate and soothe
Keep the skin soft and calm with ingredients like aloe vera, honey or centella. These soothing extracts help restore the barrier and prevent pigment from settling deeper.

🪥 Be mindful with toothpaste
Some people apply toothpaste to pimples or accidentally leave it on the skin around the mouth. But certain toothpastes contain ingredients like fluoride or menthol that can irritate or dry out the skin. In melanin rich skin, this irritation can lead to pigmentation.
Always rinse your mouth well and avoid leaving toothpaste on the skin.

😴 Watch your sleep and avoid eye rubbing
Dark circles and pigmentation around the eyes can worsen from rubbing — whether due to allergies, makeup removal or habit. Sleep deprivation also affects circulation and the skin’s recovery, making pigment more noticeable.

🧘🏽♀️ Reduce stress — including in your facial muscles
When stressed, we unconsciously clench or tense facial muscles — frowning, clenching the jaw, squinting the eyes. This affects circulation and stress on the skin around the eyes and mouth.
Facial massages and relaxation can help keep the area calm.

August was all about…

We’ve reached the end of this Pigment Talk — and I’m so grateful you’ve read this far.
Periorbital and perioral hyperpigmentation might seem small (literally!), but the impact on confidence can be huge.
I hope you now understand where these dark areas come from, how to soften them, and which steps will help you care for them with kindness.

This marks the end of our Pigment Talks series. Over the past weeks, we’ve explored PIH, melasma, sunspots, product-related pigmentation, and now pigmentation around the eyes and mouth. Five types — each with its own story, cause, and approach.
What do they all have in common? You have more control than you think. With knowledge, attention, and the right care.

And as always:

Keep learning, keep glowing
until the next Melanin Moment! 💛

With love,
Angela