Skip to content

Hyperpigmentation

Hyperpigmentation means an area of skin has become darker through increased melanin. Post-inflammatory marks and melasma are common, but a new or changing patch should not be assumed to be cosmetic.

Key takeaways

  • Acne, eczema, injury, sun exposure, hormones and some medicines can produce different patterns of darkening.
  • Sun protection helps prevent worsening and recurrence, regardless of which topical treatment is selected.
  • Irritating or prolonged depigmenting treatment can worsen pigmentation or cause lasting skin changes.

A topical listing cannot identify the cause or rule out a suspicious lesion; distribution, skin history and examination guide treatment.

What patterns matter?

Post-inflammatory pigmentation follows a rash or injury. Melasma often appears symmetrically on the face and can be influenced by pregnancy or hormones. Widespread or mucosal darkening may warrant review for medicine-related or systemic causes.

What can topical treatment do?

Hydroquinone can reduce melanin production in selected conditions but needs a defined plan and monitoring for irritation or paradoxical darkening. It is not appropriate for every patch. See skin care for related topical information.

When to seek urgent care

Arrange prompt dermatology review for a patch that grows quickly, changes colour or border, bleeds, ulcerates or becomes a new raised lesion. Widespread darkening with severe weakness, vomiting, fainting or dehydration needs urgent medical assessment.

Related articles