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

This potent serum combats dark spots and hyperpigmentation using a brightening combination of niacinamide and papaya extract. Find it on AmazonFind it on Walmart Firm Your Neck With Womaness Firming and Tightening Serum Has your neck started showing its age? —Mia Meltzer, Rolling Stone, 31 Oct. 2024

When my skin looks hydrated and glowy, my complexion is more even, and my hyperpigmentation looks less pronounced. —Shalwah Evans, People.com, 29 Oct. 2024

The treatment can also cause hyperpigmentation, especially in darker skin tones. —Mason Leib, ABC News, 10 Oct. 2024

Arbutin is an active skin-lightening ingredient in many skin care products that treat hyperpigmentation (dark spots). —Lindsay Curtis, Verywell Health, 13 Sep. 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