The greater concentration of melanin in individuals with rich complexions is very responsive to sunlight, making these skin tones more susceptible to discoloration. There are many different conditions that can cause discoloration, but the most common is Post-Inflammatory Hyperpigmentation (PIH). It is typically a condition in which patches of skin become darker in color than the surrounding skin. It’s triggered when an excesses of melanin, (the brown pigment that produces skin tone and your tan), form deposits on certain areas of your skin. With Post-Inflammatory Hyperpigmentation, an injury to the skin — anything from a pimple or a scrape to a cut or burn — can cause the skin to darken in that spot, either semi-permanently or permanently, like a scar.

Dark discoloration’s can make you feel isolated or unattractive, which can cause distress in social situations, as well as psychological stress. In order to prevent skin diseases and to minimize skin damage, one must protect his or her skin from the harmful UVA and UVB rays.