How to get rid of hyperpigmentation

Hyperpigmentation is often harmless and may require no treatment at all. However, some people may prefer to remove it. For those who do, various treatment methods and home remedies may help.

Causes of hyperpigmentation

The cause of hyperpigmentation depends on the type. The most common causes are:

Sun exposure

The body produces more melanin to protect the skin from prolonged exposure to the sun. This can cause dark spots or patches on the skin called age spots or sun spots.

Skin inflammation

Areas of skin can darken after people have had inflammation of the skin. This can include acne, eczema, lupus, or an injury to the skin. People with darker skin are more likely to develop post-inflammatory pigmentation.

Melasma

Darker patches of skin can form when people experience hormonal changes. This type of pigmentation is common during pregnancy.