Hyper-pigmentation leads to formation of dark marks or black coating on the skin.

Common Types of Hyperpigmentation
a. Post inflammatory hyper pigmentation: This type causes small dark marks usually after one suffers from acne, eczema, rashes.
b. Melasma: This type causes larger areas of dark skin on the face and neck. Melasma usually ocurs due to hormonal changes from pregnancy or anti pregnancy pills.
c. Age spots: The occurrence of age spots is due to extensive sun exposure. Age spots are most common on face and hands.

Treatment Options
Preventive measures: The sun rays intensify darkening of the skin. Hence it is very important to use sunscreen.
Medications: For hyper-pigmentation use of hydroquinone (topical application) can inhibit the action of enzyme responsible for melanin production tyrosinase. Hydroquinone is the only FDA approved skin lightener.
Professional Exfoliation: Microdermabrasion , chemical peels or mechanical peels are very effective in lightening the darkened skin. A series of 3-5 chemical peels or treatments are required to achieve the desired results.
Lasers: KTP, IPL, Q-Switched, Nd:Yag and Ruby lasers are commonly used lasers that are effective in treating hyper-pigmentation.