The changes you are noticing are most likely due to the overuse of strong skin lightening and steroid-containing creams such as Kame and HQN Plus. These medicines can give quick fairness initially, but when used for a long time, they may damage the skin barrier. This may lead to dryness, tightness, loss of natural glow, and even darkening of the skin once the effect wears off. The skin may also become more sensitive to sunlight and external irritation. The first step is to stop using these creams unless a dermatologist specifically advises continuing them. Focus on repairing your skin barrier. Use a gentle moisturiser two to three times daily and a mild face cleanser. Apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen every morning, even indoors, to prevent further pigmentation. Avoid scrubbing, fairness products, or home remedies that may further irritate the skin. If there is no improvement in a few weeks or if the darkening continues, it is important to consult a dermatologist for proper evaluation and treatment.

Darkening around the smile lines and at the corners of the lips is commonly due to post-inflammatory pigmentation. This usually develops after repeated skin irritation, dryness, friction from rubbing, sun exposure, or prolonged use of strong skin-lightening creams. Products such as HQN Plus and Kojivit Plus may sometimes irritate sensitive skin when used for too long or in combination, and may not always improve pigmentation. The first and most important step is to stop using multiple active creams simultaneously and allow the skin to recover. Focus on a simple skincare routine. Use a gentle moisturiser twice daily to repair the skin barrier and maintain hydration. Apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen every morning, even indoors, as sunlight can make pigmentation darker over time. In some cases, mild agents such as azelaic acid or niacinamide may help, but they should ideally be used under medical supervision. It is also important to avoid habits like lip licking, frequent scrubbing, or using harsh face washes. If there is no improvement after a few weeks, a dermatologist may recommend procedures such as chemical peels or other targeted treatments after examining the skin.

The combination creams you used contain strong ingredients such as a steroid and tretinoin, which may sometimes irritate sensitive facial skin. When this happens, instead of improving pigmentation, the skin may become red, dry, or even darker over time due to irritation. It is better to stop using these creams for now and let your skin calm down. Use a mild face wash and a simple, non-perfumed moisturiser, and apply sunscreen every morning, as sun exposure can worsen pigmentation. Once the redness settles, a dermatologist can guide you with safer and more gentle options, such as azelaic acid or niacinamide, depending on your skin condition. These work more slowly but are usually better tolerated. Avoid restarting strong combination creams on your own. With the right care and patience, most cases of smile line pigmentation can improve gradually over time.

Darkening around the smile lines and the corners of the lips at a young age is most often due to skin irritation or post-inflammatory pigmentation. Common triggers include sun exposure, dryness, frequent lip licking or rubbing, and sometimes reactions to skincare or cosmetic products. HQN Plus cream you used contains a steroid (Mometasone), which can thin the skin if used for long periods and may even worsen pigmentation in some cases. Treatment usually focuses on gentle care and protection. Regular use of a good sunscreen during the day is very important. Keep the area well moisturised and avoid harsh face washes or scrubbing. Safer lightening agents, such as niacinamide or azelaic acid, may help gradually improve pigmentation when used consistently under medical supervision. If your condition does not improve, a dermatologist may consider procedures such as chemical peels or laser treatment after a thorough examination.