What is hyperpigmentation?

Hyperpigmentation refers to darker areas of skin and is caused by excess melanin (pigment). There are a number of types of hyperpigmentation including melasma, sun spots (freckles and solar lentigines), and post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation. Hyperpigmentation may be improved by topical treatments and prevention is also key such as by wearing a broad spectrum sunscreen and avoiding the sun during the hottest part of the day.