What skin condition involves patches of skin that are darker than the surrounding area?

The correct answer, hyperpigmentation, refers to a condition where patches of skin become darker than the surrounding area due to an excess production of melanin. This excess can occur for various reasons, including sun exposure, hormonal changes, or inflammation. Hyperpigmentation can manifest in different forms, such as age spots or post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation, which can develop after skin injuries.

While conditions like vitiligo are characterized by lighter patches due to a loss of melanin, and dark spots or melasma may be specific types of hyperpigmentation affected by different factors, the term hyperpigmentation encompasses a broader range of skin darkening. Understanding this term is critical for recognizing and addressing skin concerns in an electrology practice.