What is hyperpigmentation?

Hyperpigmentation is a common condition that makes some areas of the skin darker than others. “Hyper” means more, and “pigment” means color.

Hyperpigmentation can appear as brown, black, gray, red or pink spots or patches. The spots are sometimes called age spots, sun spots or liver spots.

What causes hyperpigmentation?

Skin gets its color from a substance called melanin, which is made by skin cells. When those skin cells are damaged or unhealthy, they can produce too much melanin. The melanin can clump, causing that area to appear darker.

Many things can lead to hyperpigmentation:

1) Adrenal disorders such as Addison’s disease, when the body doesn’t make enough of a hormone called cortisol.

2) Genetics, such as a family with freckles.

3) Hormone changes, such as during puberty or pregnancy.

4) Injury to the skin (for example, acne, cuts or burns), which is sometimes called postinflammatory hyperpigmentation.

5) Medications, such as oral contraceptives (birth control pills) and drugs that cause sensitivity to light.