Hyperpigmentation is a common skin concern where certain areas of the skin become darker than the surrounding skin, appearing as patches, spots, or an overall uneven tone. It happens when the skin produces excess melanin — the pigment responsible for skin colour — in response to a trigger.

There are several common causes, and it's possible to have more than one type at once:

• Post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH) — dark marks left behind after acne, breakouts, or any injury or inflammation to the skin. As the skin heals, it can overproduce melanin in that area, leaving a mark that lingers well after the original blemish has gone.
• Sun-induced pigmentation (sunspots/age spots) — UV exposure over time triggers melanin production as a protective response, leading to flat brown spots or patches, particularly on areas that get regular sun exposure.
• Melasma — patchy, often symmetrical pigmentation, commonly triggered or worsened by hormonal changes (pregnancy, hormonal contraception, perimenopause) and UV exposure. Melasma tends to be more persistent and can be more resistant to treatment than other forms of pigmentation.

Because these different types of pigmentation can respond differently to treatment, and because sun protection is essential for managing (and preventing) all of them, consistent daily SPF alongside a targeted skincare routine gives the best chance of visible improvement over time.