Post Inflamatory Hyperpigmentation

Have you noticed a slight darkening of the skin after a recent acne breakout or minor injury? This may be a result of a condition known as postinflammory hyperpigmentation.

Postinflammory hyperpigmentation, or PIH, is not a life threatening or serious problem, but it can be embarrassing. Dr. Vivian Bucay and her staff at Bucay Center for Dermatology and Aesthetics can help. There are several treatment options that may be able to help you even out your skin tone.

What is Postinflammory Hyperpigmentation?

Postinflammory hyperpigmentation occurs when a small area of the skin appears darker than the rest. This often occurs after a cut, burn, pimple, or other minor injury. Once the injury is healed or the acne has cleared up, a small mark is left on the skin.

The skin discoloration caused by postinflammory hyperpigmentation will often clear up on its own. However, it can take anywhere from six months to a year for the darker patches of skin to lighten up.

How Can Dr. Bucay Help with Postinflammory Hyperpigmentation?

There are two ways we can help our patients who are suffering from postinflammory hyperpigmentation. We can offer skincare regimen advice that helps with the prevention of postinflammory hyperpigmentation.

In addition to preventative tips, we can help you explore possible treatment options for PIH. There are several treatment options that may help lighten the darkened area.

How is Postinflammory Hyperpigmentation Prevented?

PIH is prevented with the use of daily sunscreen and with proper skincare. Avoiding prolonged exposure to the sun is also recommended, as it will prevent sun spots and sunburns that can cause PIH.

Engaging in a proper daily skincare regimen is another preventative step you can take. Exfoliating and moisturizing, as needed, can prevent skin inflammation that causes acne breakouts.

When it comes to creating a daily skincare regimen, everyone is different. We can help you create a proper skincare regimen that will address your skin’s unique needs and prevent postinflammory hyperpigmentation.

What Treatment Options are Available for Postinflammory Hyperpigmentation?

Topical treatments and physical treatments are the two ways postinflammory hyperpigmentation can be treated. Some treatment options that have proven successful in treating PIH include glycolic acid peels, corticosteroid creams, vitamin C creams, laser treatments, and chemical peels.

Dr. Bucay and her physician’s assistants can help provide personalized treatment recommendations that will help lessen the appearance of darken skin caused by postinflammory hyperpigmentation.