Which of the following describes hypopigmentation?

Hypopigmentation refers to a condition in which the skin loses its pigment, leading to lighter patches or areas on the skin compared to the surrounding areas. This occurs due to a reduction in melanin production, which is the pigment responsible for the natural color of the skin. The correct choice accurately captures this phenomenon by describing it as a lightening of skin color.

In contrast, the other options address different concepts. Darkening of skin color is known as hyperpigmentation, which occurs when excess melanin is produced, often resulting from sun exposure or hormonal changes. Uneven skin texture relates to the surface characteristics of the skin, including roughness or bumps, but does not specifically pertain to pigmentation levels. Inflammation of the skin refers to conditions that cause redness, swelling, and irritation, which are not directly associated with changes in skin color but rather with the skin's reaction to injury or irritation. Therefore, the choice about lightening of skin color is the only one that accurately describes hypopigmentation.