Post-Inflammatory Hyperpigmentation is the result of any inflammatory skin reaction from acne, dermatitis, psoriasis, skin infections, skin trauma, burns and drug eruptions. PIH from acne and other skin issues are made worse by picking or squeezing, and sun exposure.
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Post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation occurs when acne, or any other injury causes the skin to be inflamed. This inflammation triggers excess melanin production, leaving behind discoloration after the injury or acne has healed. Post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation will fade over time, however it can take up to two years to completely go away.
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Post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation is very common in acne prone skin as well as deeper skin tones. Post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation is often referred to as acne scars, however these spots are not true scars. Post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation doesn't involve changes to collagen in the skin, so there is no actual scar tissue.
Although post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation generally fades on its own, treatments such as laser genesis, lightening creams, chemical peels, microdermabrasion, and daily sun protection can help speed up the fading process.
