Study of lip print patterns in North Bengaluru population

Abstract

Aim and Objectives: To study and evaluate the pattern of lip impression in North Bengaluru population. Materials and Methods: The study population comprised 100 individuals (equal number of males and females) in the age group of 22-35 years. Dark colored lipstick, cellophane tape/scotch tape, A4 sheet, and magnifying hand lens were used for the study. Tsuchihashi and Suzuki's classification was followed. The lip prints were analyzed using magnifying hand lens and grouped into Type I (vertical lines that is running along the full length of the lips), Type I' (vertical lines ending half way), Type II (lines/grooves forking at the end), Type III (mesh pattern/intersecting lines), Type IV (reticular/crisscross lines), and Type V (lines which cannot be categorized into other types). Results: In the present research, we found that lip prints were individualistic. Type IV (reticular/crisscross pattern) was the most common pattern of lip print in North Bengaluru people. Conclusion: Cheiloscopy/study of patterns of lip-prints can serve as an important tool in criminal investigations as it is unique. The predominance of a specific pattern in a geographic location also helps in personal investigations.