What Is Post-Inflammatory Hyperpigmentation?

Post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH) is a type of pigmentation that develops after inflammation or injury to the skin. It commonly appears as flat brown, grey, or purple marks left behind after:

• acne breakouts
• eczema
• rosacea flare-ups
• insect bites
• irritation or picking the skin

PIH is particularly common in darker skin tones, as increased inflammation can stimulate excess melanin production.

Unlike acne scars, PIH affects skin colour rather than skin texture.

If you're unsure how post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation differs from other forms of pigmentation such as melasma or sun damage, read our complete guide:

Understanding Hyperpigmentation: Causes, Types & Doctor-Recommended Treatment Guide

Here we explain the different types of pigmentation, common causes, and available treatment options in more detail.

What Causes PIH?

When the skin becomes inflamed, melanocytes (pigment-producing cells) can become overactive and produce excess melanin.

Common triggers include:

• inflammatory acne
• picking spots
• aggressive skincare
• over-exfoliation
• UV exposure
• irritation from active ingredients

Without treatment and daily SPF, pigmentation can persist for months.

How to Treat Post-Inflammatory Hyperpigmentation

Treating PIH requires a combination of:

• pigment-regulating ingredients
• gentle exfoliation
• anti-inflammatory skincare
• strict daily SPF use

Consistency is essential, as pigmentation fades gradually over time.

Once you understand what causes PIH, the next step is building a consistent skincare routine that supports brighter, more even-toned skin.

Managing Hyperpigmentation at Home

Best Ingredients for PIH

Vitamin C

Vitamin C helps brighten uneven skin tone while protecting against oxidative stress that can worsen pigmentation.

SkinCeuticals Phloretin CF

An antioxidant serum designed to improve skin clarity and support more even skin tone.

Niacinamide

Niacinamide helps reduce inflammation while supporting brighter, healthier-looking skin.

Medik8 Niacinamide Peptides

Supports barrier health while helping improve redness and uneven pigmentation.

Retinoids (Retinol & Retinal)

Retinoids increase skin cell turnover and help gradually fade post-inflammatory pigmentation over time.

Medik8 Crystal Retinal

A next-generation vitamin A treatment designed to improve pigmentation, texture, and skin clarity.

Skinbetter Science AlphaRet Overnight Cream

Combines retinoid technology with exfoliating acids to improve uneven skin tone and texture.

Azelaic Acid

Azelaic acid helps reduce inflammation and pigmentation simultaneously, making it particularly beneficial for acne-prone skin with PIH.

Arbutin & Brightening Ingredients

Ingredients such as arbutin help reduce excess melanin production and support a more even complexion.

Alastin A-Luminate Brightening Serum

A hydroquinone- and retinol-free brightening serum designed to reduce visible discolouration and uneven skin tone.

iS CLINICAL Brightening Complex

Targets uneven pigmentation while supporting smoother, brighter skin.

Why SPF Is Essential

UV exposure can significantly worsen PIH and make dark marks more difficult to fade.

Daily SPF is one of the most important steps in any pigmentation routine.

Heliocare 360 Pigment Solution Fluid SPF50+

Provides high-level sun protection while supporting pigmentation-prone skin.

SkinCeuticals Advanced Brightening UV Defense SPF50

Helps protect against UV-induced pigmentation while supporting brighter skin tone.

Prescription Treatments for PIH

For more stubborn pigmentation, prescription treatments may sometimes be recommended.

These can include:

• tretinoin
• hydroquinone
• azelaic acid
• combination topical treatments

Prescription options should always be used under medical supervision to minimise irritation and rebound pigmentation.

Download Our Free Pigmentation Ebook

Want to learn more about treating pigmentation and building an effective brightening routine?

Download our free ebook:

Understanding Pigmentation & Building a Routine for Brighter, Even-Toned Skin

Inside, we cover:

• causes of pigmentation
• melasma vs hyperpigmentation
• best brightening ingredients
• skincare routines for dark spots
• recommended cleansers, serums, moisturisers, and SPF

 Download your free pigmentation ebook here

When to Seek Professional Advice

If pigmentation is persistent, worsening, or affecting your confidence, a personalised treatment plan may help achieve better long-term results.

Professional guidance can help determine:

• whether pigmentation is PIH or melasma
• which active ingredients are most suitable
• whether prescription treatments are appropriate
• and how to safely combine skincare with in-clinic treatments

Book Your Consultation

If you are struggling with persistent post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation, acne marks, or uneven skin tone, a personalised treatment plan can help you achieve clearer, brighter skin safely and effectively.

We can assess your skin in detail and recommend the most suitable combination of skincare, prescription treatments, and in-clinic options tailored specifically to your concerns.

Book your consultation here

Frequently Asked Questions About Post-Inflammatory Hyperpigmentation (PIH)

How long does PIH take to fade?

Post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation can take several weeks to months to fade depending on the severity of inflammation, skin tone, sun exposure, and consistency of treatment.

Is PIH the same as acne scarring?

No. PIH refers to dark marks left after inflammation, whereas acne scars involve changes in skin texture such as indentations or raised scars.

Can retinol help post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation?

Yes. Retinoids such as retinol and retinal help increase skin cell turnover and gradually improve uneven pigmentation over time.

Does SPF help PIH?

Absolutely. Daily SPF is essential because UV exposure can worsen pigmentation and slow the fading process significantly.

Which ingredients help fade PIH?

Ingredients commonly used to improve post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation include:

• vitamin C
• retinoids
• niacinamide
• azelaic acid
• arbutin
• hydroquinone (under medical supervision)

Can PIH be prevented?

Reducing inflammation early is key. Avoiding skin picking, wearing SPF daily, and treating acne promptly can help reduce the risk of developing pigmentation marks.

Written By 

Dr S Ahmed

Updated July 2026