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

Tranexamic acid rounds things out by targeting the look of dark spots and hyperpigmentation over time. —Lily Wohlner, Allure, 28 Jan. 2026

The rich formula brightens stubborn dark spots and evens out hyperpigmentation. —Kyra Surgent, InStyle, 28 Jan. 2026

Why This Matters For Melanated Skin Melanated skin is more prone to post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation, meaning irritation often leaves a mark long after a breakout or reaction is gone. —Corein Carter, Forbes.com, 27 Jan. 2026

Rosehip oil, the brand’s signature ingredient, targets hyperpigmentation and scarring while boosting hydration. —Ritu Upadhyay, Footwear News, 26 Jan. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1866, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for hyperpigmentation

• acclimatisation
• acclimatization
• acidification
• actualization
• annualization
• autocorrelation
• autoregulation
• beatification
• beneficiation
• biodegradation
• biotransformation
• bureaucratization

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