Health
Fact-checked

At TheHealthBoard, we're committed to delivering accurate, trustworthy information. Our expert-authored content is rigorously fact-checked and sourced from credible authorities. Discover how we uphold the highest standards in providing you with reliable knowledge.

Learn more...

What is Hyperpigmentation?

Stefanie Spikell
Stefanie Spikell

Hyperpigmentation is a common condition in which some patches of skin turn darker in color. This is a harmless condition caused when there is too much brown pigment, called melanin, in the skin. This condition can affect people in all races.

Age spots, sometimes called liver spots, are a form of hyperpigmentation. They usually occur because of damage to the skin from the sun. Doctors call these spots solar lentigines. The small, dark spots are found generally on the hands and face, but any area exposed to a lot of sun can be affected.

Hyperpigmentation may occur in pregnant women due to hormonal changes.
Hyperpigmentation may occur in pregnant women due to hormonal changes.

There are two types of spots that are similar to age spots, but they cover larger areas of skin. These are referred to as melasma or chloasma spots and, while they are similar to age spots, they are a result of hormonal changes. Some pregnant women overproduce melanin and they get a condition called "mask of pregnancy" on their faces or abdomens. Women who take birth control pills may also develop hyperpigmentation since their bodies react, hormonally, as if they were pregnant.

Hyperpigmentation is not the only cause of skin color change. Acne can cause darkening of the skin and so can skin injuries and some surgery. Freckles are darkened places on the skin of the face and arms and is a hereditary condition.

Any darkened skin patch can get even darker when that area of the skin is exposed to the sun because melanin absorbs ultraviolet rays from the sun in order to protect the skin from overexposure. This is actually what we refer to as "tanning."

Women on birth control pills may be at risk for developing hyperpigmentation.
Women on birth control pills may be at risk for developing hyperpigmentation.

There are a variety of prescription creams that can help to lighten the darkened patches of skin. They do this by slowing melanin production so that the patches fade. Laser treatments are also effective at removing hyperpigmentation and often can remove the pigmented areas without leaving any scars.

Discussion Comments

anon9017

what are the little red dots that are on my face and arms?

Post your comments
Login:
Forgot password?
Register:
    • Hyperpigmentation may occur in pregnant women due to hormonal changes.
      By: LanaK
      Hyperpigmentation may occur in pregnant women due to hormonal changes.
    • Women on birth control pills may be at risk for developing hyperpigmentation.
      By: Kimberly Reinick
      Women on birth control pills may be at risk for developing hyperpigmentation.
    • Tanning can exacerbate existing freckles, and even cause more freckles.
      By: Liv Friis-larsen
      Tanning can exacerbate existing freckles, and even cause more freckles.
    • Laser treatments are effective at removing hyperpigmentation without leaving any scars.
      By: mkrberlin
      Laser treatments are effective at removing hyperpigmentation without leaving any scars.