ABSTRACT

Hyperpigmentation, which is a term that means darkening of the skin, is a frequent complaint with challenging clinical management both for the patient and the physician. There are congenital as well as acquired forms secondary to systemic diseases, skin problems or environmental factors. Although usually asymtomatic these lesions can have bad impact on patients’ social relationships and quality of life both as a cosmetic and psychological problem. This review will focus on melasma, post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation, freckles and lentigines which constitute major causes for facial hyperpigmentation.