Black lips and pimples

Q: I am facing certain problems relating to my skin. Earlier my lips were neither red nor black. But once in winter my lips started feeling very dry and it started becoming black in colour. At that time I did not take much care. Now my problem is what ever be the weather, my lips feel very dry and I have to apply lip gel four times in a day. Also the black colour looks very bad. Can you suggest some remedy for overcoming dry lips and also removing the black colour? I do not apply lip stick at all. The other problem that I have is numerous small pimples on my forehead. I do not have dandruff except when my hair is not washed for a long time. Please suggest how to get rid of pimples.

A:The problem on the lips may be due to lichen planus-a mild steroid preparation like FLUTICASONE-applied once daily would help. Adaplene(adaferrin) is a mild retinoid cream-the patient can use it every night on the pimples.