Definition of Depigmentation

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Depigmentation: Loss of color (pigment) from the skin, mucous membranes, hair, or retina of the eye.

The color of the skin, mucous membranes, hair, and retina is due to the deposition of melanin, which is a coloring matter. Melanin is produced by specialized cells called melanocytes.

Other terms pertaining to pigment include pigmentation (the presence of pigment), hypopigmentation and underpigmentation (too little pigment), and hyperpigmentation (too much pigment).