Difference Between Pigmentation and Hyperpigmentation

Pigmentation is the natural colour of your skin, determined by the level of melanin produced by your body. It plays a vital role in protecting your skin from UV rays and giving you your unique skin tone. This process is completely normal and essential for maintaining healthy skin.
Hyperpigmentation, on the other hand, occurs when certain areas of the skin produce excess melanin, leading to darker patches or spots. It’s not a skin type but a condition often triggered by sun damage, acne marks, hormonal changes, inflammation, or aging. Unlike regular pigmentation, hyperpigmentation is uneven, localised, and visually noticeable compared to the surrounding skin.
Understanding the difference helps in choosing the right treatment. While pigmentation is natural and uniform, hyperpigmentation requires corrective care such as brightening treatments, exfoliation, sunscreen, or professional dermatological therapies. Knowing your skin concerns ensures you manage them effectively and achieve a clearer, more even complexion.