What should you know about boots hyperpigmentation?

Hyperpigmentation can follow acne, eczema, burns, bites, or other inflammation. Sun and visible light may deepen some patches, while hormones, medicines, friction, and certain skin conditions can also contribute. A patch may be flat and evenly coloured, or it may have scale, irritation, or a changing border that points to another diagnosis.

A clinician may examine the pattern, ask when it began, review medicines and skin products, and decide whether testing is needed. The right treatment is determined by the cause, not by colour alone.

Use broad-spectrum sun protection and shade or clothing on exposed areas, following the product directions. Avoid picking spots, harsh scrubs, unregulated lightening mixtures, and products that burn or sting, because irritation can deepen post-inflammatory colour.

A clinician may discuss a chemical peel, skin-brightening treatment, IPL photofacial, picosecond laser treatment, or topical hydroquinone treatment when appropriate. These options have different risks, especially for darker skin tones, and should be selected after diagnosis and a discussion of downtime, recurrence, and pigment changes.

Arrange a dermatology review for a new, rapidly changing, bleeding, painful, persistently itchy, or irregularly bordered patch. Seek advice sooner if colour change follows a medicine or widespread rash. Do not start prescription lightening treatment without confirming the diagnosis and the safe duration of use.

What is the likely cause of my darker patch? Which treatment fits my skin tone and location, and what irritation or pigment change should I watch for? How long should I protect the area before judging improvement?