Hyperpigmentation is abnormal skin darkening as a result of excessive production of melanin (color pigment) from melanocytes (the cell that produces color pigment in the skin). This situation is known as ‘stain’ among the people.

It occurs as a result of the increase in the number and functions of melanocytes. Sun lights, cosmetics, drug use, metabolic problems, genetic factors, advanced age are among the causes of hyperpigmentation.

Hyperpigmentation Types;

1. Post-inflammatory Hyperpigmentation: It is a hyperpigmentation that develops as a result of skin diseases such as acne, atopic dermatitis (eczema), contact dermatitis or inflammation caused by dermacosmetic applications.
2. Melasma: Melasma is the formation of black or brown spots on the skin. It is caused by the excessive production of melanin by melanocyte cells in the skin.
3. Chloasma: It is the melasma that develops as a result of hormones that change during pregnancy and is mostly seen on the forehead, chin, upper lip and nose edges.
4. Freckle (Efelid): These are small spots that appear on the skin as a result of sun exposure, usually seen in fair skinned people.
5. Lentigo: It is hyperpigmentation, also known as age spot, seen in people aged 60 and over, which occurs as a result of exposure to the sun.

 UV rays cause an increase in the amount of color pigment produced by stimulating the skin’s color cells, melanocytes. The color pigment produced in excess amount accumulates on the surface of the skin and causes an unusual pigmentation (hyperpigmentation).