Post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation is darkening of skin after inflammation or injury. It doesn’t itch or hurt, but it can be bothersome and worsens with sun exposure. Over-the-counter treatments plus daily sun protection can help fade it.

Melasma is a blotchy brown darkening of facial skin, often called the “mask of pregnancy” because it can appear during or after pregnancy. Sun makes it worse, but over-the-counter treatments combined with daily sun protection can help.