Our body contains a pigment – melanin, which determines the colour of your skin, eyes and hair. People with darker skin types tend to have more melanin in their skin cells than those with lighter skin. Imbalances and disorders of the skin can lead to inconsistent colouration, patterning and ‘blotches’. When skin cells become damaged or unhealthy, extra melanin is produced to help protect your skin. Alternatively, the cells that produce pigment can be damaged, which prevents melanin production. As a result of this process, parts of your skin may turn lighter (hypo-pigmentation) or darker (hyperpigmentation), both of which are recognisable skin conditions.