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.