As someone that struggles with acne-prone skin, hyperpigmentation and scarring is a never-ending battle that I can’t seem to win. According to verywellhealth.com, post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH) is those dark marks or spots left behind after a pimple heals. They can be even more aggravating and irritating than the actual pimples themselves. Although a variety of serums and toners aim to reduce post-acne inflammation, there is seemingly no other cure than patience and restraint.
So, how do they develop? After a prominent or painful breakout, the discoloration of that said pimple remains until after the wound heals. It is the skin’s natural response to post-inflammation. It can appear white, pink, red, purple, or brown, depending on your skin color and type of pimple (pustules or cysts). Once the breakout is fully healed, the skin produces an excess of melanin that subsequently discolors your skin. For example, as someone that struggles with cystic-acne, I get a larger and darker post-inflammation spot. In addition, picking or popping a breakout will often cause an increase in inflammation.
What’s the difference between acne scars and post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation? PIH is not actual scarring and often disappears after a few months. Scars cause a pitted impression on the skin and last for a lifetime. So, what are the treatment options for PIH? Time. According to verywellhealth.com, it can often take up to 24 months for the discoloration to heal. It’s important to exfoliate your skin regularly to promote healing among the cells. Some treatments include AHA’s Niacinamide, Azelaic acid, and retinols. And wear sunscreen every day as the sun can darken the discolorations and make them slower to heal. To get the best results, be sure to control your acne and wear daily sunscreen.