Research Topic · Peer-Reviewed

Hyperpigmentation

Hyperpigmentation is the localized or diffuse darkening of skin caused by excess melanin deposition within the epidermis, dermis, or both. It arises when melanocytes produce more pigment or when melanin is abnormally distributed, and it is classified by the depth and cause of the pigment. Epidermal hyperpigmentation…

Curated from this journal's research 📚 5 peer-reviewed articles cited Cited 13× across the literature 🔖 ISSN 2471-2175 🗓 Reviewed July 2026

Overview

Hyperpigmentation is the localized or diffuse darkening of skin caused by excess melanin deposition within the epidermis, dermis, or both. It arises when melanocytes produce more pigment or when melanin is abnormally distributed, and it is classified by the depth and cause of the pigment. Epidermal hyperpigmentation typically appears brown and reflects increased melanin in keratinocytes, whereas dermal pigment, often grey-brown or blue, results from melanin that has dropped into the dermis, where it is engulfed by macrophages. Common clinical forms include post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation following acne, eczema, or injury; melasma driven by hormonal and ultraviolet stimulation; solar lentigines from chronic sun exposure; and drug-induced pigmentation, in which medications or their metabolites provoke melanin synthesis or deposit pigmented complexes in tissue. Ultraviolet radiation, inflammation, hormonal change, and genetic predisposition are principal triggers, frequently acting together. Diagnosis rests on clinical pattern, distribution, and, where needed, Wood-lamp examination or biopsy to localize the pigment. Management combines photoprotection with agents that inhibit tyrosinase or accelerate epidermal turnover, alongside chemical peels and selected laser or light therapies, with treatment chosen according to pigment depth, skin phototype, and the underlying cause to limit recurrence and avoid further pigmentary disturbance.

Research published in this journal

5 peer-reviewed articles, ranked by relevance. Each links to its DOI.

How this research is being cited

The 5 articles above have been cited 13 times in the scholarly literature. Citation data via OpenAlex and Crossref, updated Jun 2026.

A sample of recent works citing this journal's research on Hyperpigmentation, linking to each citing work.

Editorial oversight

Curated from peer-reviewed research published in Dermatologic Research And Therapy (ISSN 2471-2175).

Journal editorial board
Wenbin Tan · United States Anand Rotte · United States David Fisher · United States

This page summarises published research for orientation; it is not medical or professional advice.