Hyperpigmentation is the coloration or darkening of an area of the skin. The Skin contains a particular type of cells called melanocytes that produces a pigment called melanin. Depending upon the amount of pigment produced, the skin undergoes pigmentation. If skin produces too much pigment, it gets darker, a condition known as hyperpigmentation. However, if too little of the pigment is formed by the cells, the condition is known as hypopigmentation.

A common cause of hyperpigmentation is an excess production of melanin. Melanin is a pigment that gives skin its color. It’s produced by skin cells called melanocytes. Several different conditions or factors can alter the production of melanin in your body.