No, Vaseline Rosy Lips itself does not make lips dark. Multiple sources confirm that Vaseline, the base ingredient of Vaseline Rosy Lips, does not inherently darken lips. In fact, it's often touted for its moisturizing properties, helping to keep lips soft and healthy. [1, 2, 7]
However, it's crucial to understand that sun exposure while using Vaseline or similar lip products can contribute to lip darkening. Some sources caution against applying Vaseline and then going out into the sun. [6] This is because Vaseline creates a barrier, potentially trapping heat and increasing the risk of sun damage, which could lead to hyperpigmentation (darkening) of the lips. This darkening is not a direct result of the Vaseline itself, but rather an indirect consequence of its use in conjunction with sun exposure.
Therefore, the potential for lip darkening is not due to the product itself, but rather a factor of its interaction with the environment. Proper sun protection, even while using lip balms like Vaseline Rosy Lips, is essential to maintain lip health and color.
In summary: Vaseline Rosy Lips, containing Vaseline jelly, does not cause lip darkening on its own. Lip darkening can result from sun exposure while using lip products, including Vaseline Rosy Lips, which create a barrier potentially intensifying the effects of sun's UV rays.