<unk>  is characterized specifically as an area of skin becoming lighter than the baseline skin color, but not completely devoid of pigment. This is not to be confused with depigmentation, which is characterized as the absence of all pigment. It is caused by melanocyte or melanin depletion, or a decrease in the amino acid tyrosine, which is used by melanocytes to make melanin. Some common genetic causes include mutations in the tyrosinase gene or OCA2 gene. As melanin pigments tend to be in the skin, eye, and hair, these are the commonly affected areas in those with<unk> .<unk>  is common and approximately one in twenty have at least one hypopigmented macule.<unk>  can be upsetting to some, especially those with darker skin whose<unk>  marks are seen more visibly. Most causes of<unk>  are not serious and can be easily treated.
Hypopigmentation
Pallor
Hyperpigmentation
Hypertrichosis
Xanthosis
Skin whitening
Harlequin color change
Oral pigmentation