What Is Hyperpigmentation?
Hyperpigmentation refers to areas of skin that appear darker than the surrounding skin due to excess melanin production. It's an umbrella term that covers several distinct causes, including sun-induced age spots, post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (dark marks left behind after acne, injury, or irritation), and melasma (a hormonally influenced pattern of larger patches).
Hyperpigmentation is very common and generally not a medical concern on its own, though a new or changing dark spot should always be evaluated to rule out something that needs more attention, like an atypical mole.
Causes
- Sun exposure over time, which stimulates excess melanin production (sun spots/age spots)
- Inflammation from acne, eczema, injury, or irritation, leaving a temporary dark mark behind as it heals (post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation)
- Hormonal changes, particularly during pregnancy or with hormonal medications (melasma)
- Certain medications that increase skin's sun sensitivity
Symptoms
- Flat, darker patches or spots compared to surrounding skin
- Color ranging from light brown to dark brown or gray-brown
- Patches often on sun-exposed areas: face, hands, chest, shoulders
- Gradual fading over months in post-inflammatory cases, though some patterns (like melasma) are more persistent
Treatment Options at Dermatology of Seattle
- Topical prescription lightening treatment
- Chemical peels to accelerate fading of surface pigmentation
- Laser and light-based treatments for certain types of stubborn pigmentation
- Daily sun protection guidance, which is essential both for treatment and preventing recurrence
When to See a Dermatologist
Most hyperpigmentation is cosmetic and can be addressed on your own schedule, but see a dermatologist for any new, growing, or changing dark spot to rule out something that needs closer evaluation. A dermatologist can also identify which type of hyperpigmentation you have, since the most effective treatment differs by cause.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will hyperpigmentation go away on its own?
Post-inflammatory marks from acne or minor injury often fade gradually over several months, though the process can be sped up with treatment. Sun-induced spots and melasma tend to be more persistent and usually benefit from active treatment rather than waiting.
Why do dark spots keep coming back even after treatment?
Without consistent sun protection, new hyperpigmentation can form even after existing spots are treated, since UV exposure is the primary driver of ongoing pigment production. Daily sunscreen is essential to maintaining results.
Is hyperpigmentation the same as melasma?
Melasma is one specific type of hyperpigmentation, typically caused by hormonal factors and appearing as larger, more symmetric patches, often on the face. Hyperpigmentation is the broader term covering melasma along with sun spots and post-inflammatory marks.