What term describes darker than normal skin pigmentation that appears as dark splotches?

The term that describes darker than normal skin pigmentation that appears as dark splotches is hyperpigmentation. This condition occurs when there is an excess production of melanin, the pigment responsible for the color of our skin, hair, and eyes. Hyperpigmentation can result from various factors, including sun exposure, hormonal changes, and certain medications. It often manifests as dark spots or patches on the skin, giving it an uneven appearance.

Melasma, while a form of hyperpigmentation characterized specifically by brown or gray-brown patches, is a more specific type of hyperpigmentation often associated with hormonal changes, especially in women during pregnancy or with contraceptive use. Hypopigmentation, on the other hand, refers to a reduction in skin pigment, leading to lighter areas of skin. Dermatitis is an inflammatory condition of the skin that does not primarily focus on pigmentation changes. Therefore, hyperpigmentation serves as the comprehensive term for this condition.