Hyperpigmentation is a common skin condition where areas of skin become visibly darker than the surrounding skin. This darkening occurs when an excess of melanin, the pigment that gives skin its color, is produced in those areas.  Common types of hyperpigmentation are ‘freckles’, melasma, or dark patches on the skin. Although hyperpigmentation is not typically harmful, it can be of great concern to patients who want to look their best.