Pigmentation is a heterogeneous group of skin conditions characterized by abnormal deposits of pigment in the body. The condition may be localized or generalized and purely cosmetic in concern or the indicator of a serious underlying condition. Most pigmentary disorders are in the nature of excessive deposits of melanin in the skin. Melanin is the pigment responsible for our skin colour.

Hormones play an important role in both the generalized forms e.g. Addison’s disease and Hemochromatosis or localized form like Melasma. Facial pigmentation is a cause of serious emotional disturbance as it affects the appearance.