What should you know about black hyperpigmentation?

Extra pigment may remain after acne, eczema, irritation, injury, or repeated rubbing. A clinician should assess a new, changing, isolated, or unusually dark area rather than treating it solely as a cosmetic concern.

Hyperpigmentation occurs when the skin produces or retains additional melanin. The pattern provides useful clues: marks exactly where a rash or spot healed suggest post-inflammatory pigmentation, while symmetrical patches or darkening in skin folds may have different triggers.

Note whether the surface is smooth, thickened, scaly, sore, or itchy. Also consider recent products, hair removal, friction, medicines, and sun exposure. These details help separate pigment change from a growth or active rash.

Use a gentle cleanser, moisturise, and stop scrubs or products that sting. Protect exposed areas from sunlight, because ultraviolet and visible light can deepen existing pigment. Avoid picking and reduce rubbing from tight clothing.

Treatment depends on the cause and your skin tone. A dermatologist may consider pigment-reducing creams, a chemical peel, or a light or laser procedure after examining the skin. Strong bleaching products and unregulated mixtures can irritate skin and worsen discolouration.

Arrange a prompt skin assessment if one dark patch is new or evolving, has uneven borders or several colours, bleeds, forms a persistent sore, or differs clearly from your other marks. Seek care sooner for rapid widespread darkening, swelling, blistering, fever, or darkening inside the mouth.

Book a routine appointment when pigmentation persists, follows a recurring rash, or affects confidence. Bring a list of medicines and products, and photographs showing how the area has changed.

Ask whether the pattern suggests inflammation, friction, a medicine reaction, or another condition; whether the skin needs dermoscopy or a small sample; and which treatment carries the lowest risk of irritation or lighter marks for your skin tone.