hyperpigmentation

noun

hy·​per·​pig·​men·​ta·​tion ˌhī-pər-ˌpig-mən-ˈtā-shən 

-ˌmen-

: excess pigmentation in a bodily part or tissue (such as the skin)

Vitamin C has been reported to inhibit the production of melanin, the stuff that produces not only a tan but also freckles and hyperpigmentation.

—Anne Weintraub

The presence of nickel can cause a skin rash that leads to hyperpigmentation, or darkening, of the skin.

—Jenyne M. Raines

hyperpigmented

ˌhī-pər-ˈpig-mən-təd 

-ˌmen-

adjective

hyperpigmented skin

Examples of hyperpigmentation in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

The formula also features brightening licorice root to diminish dark spots and balance skin tone, targeting common signs of aging like hyperpigmentation. —Christa Joanna Lee, Allure, 3 Dec. 2024

Formulated with brightening tranexamic acid and niacinamide, the Discoloration Defense is clinically proven to reduce the appearance of dark spots—including hard-to-treat brown patches and post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation. —Jenny Berg, Vogue, 2 Dec. 2024

Lastly, those with more melanin-rich skin may want to avoid daytime use, as UV exposure could lead to hyperpigmentation where the patch was applied. —Boutayna Chokrane, WIRED, 27 Nov. 2024

Benefits Kojic acid can improve skin hyperpigmentation. —Merve Ceylan, Health, 4 Nov. 2024

Word History

First Known Use

1866, in the meaning defined above

Medical Definition

hyperpigmentation

noun

hy·​per·​pig·​men·​ta·​tion -ˌpig-mən-ˈtā-shən, -ˌmen- 

: excess pigmentation in a body part or tissue (as the skin)

hyperpigmentation of deep inflammatory acne lesions

—Elizabeth A. Abel et al.

hyperpigmented

-ˈpig-mənt-əd, -ˌment- 

adjective

hyperpigmented skin