Hyperpigmentation is the name that healthcare professionals give to patches of skin that become darker than surrounding areas of skin.

Types of hyperpigmentation include age spots, melasma, and post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation. Each of these has a different cause and a range of treatments and products, including creams and cosmetic procedures. We discuss these below.

Hyperpigmentation occurs when the skin produces more melanin, the pigment that gives skin its color. This can make spots or patches of skin appear darker than surrounding areas.

Hyperpigmentation is a common skin condition. It affects people of all skin types.

Diagnosis

People with hyperpigmentation can see a doctor, who will be able to identify the type and cause. A doctor may take a small sample of skin, or a biopsy, to determine the cause of the hyperpigmentation.

Doctors can usually diagnose melasma and other types of hyperpigmentation just by looking at the skin. They may sometimes use a special light called a Wood’s light to examine the skin.

Our dermatologist will create a treatment plan if necessary.