Acne with Post-Inflammatory Hyperpigmentation

Acne with Post-Inflammatory Hyperpigmentation refers to acne, usually in persons with a darker skin tone, where the breakouts lead to dark spots and/or scarring. It can be caused by various factors such as hormonal changes, stress, genetics, or skincare habits.

It is characterised by areas of increased pigmentation or discolouration on the skin. It occurs when the skin produces excess melanin in response to inflammation caused by acne lesions.

Treatment tips that can help with Acne with Post-Inflammatory Hyperpigmentation

Prescription

• Oral Tetracyclines
• Oral Isotretinoin

(Check with your medical professional)

Non-Prescription

1. Incorporating a Vitamin C antioxidant can help prevent PIH
2. Tyrosinase inhibitors
3. A lightweight, high-factor, broad-spectrum sunscreen that also has a High Energy Visible Light (HEVL) blocker.
4. Chemical peel
5. Acleara/Theraclear Acne Clearing System (an energy-based device)

Skincare ingredients that can help with Acne with Post-Inflammatory Hyperpigmentation

• Tranexamic acid
• Silymarin
• Vitamin C
• Ferulic Acid
• Salicylic Acid
• Niacinamide
• Gluconolactone
• Mandelic Acid
• Benzoyl Peroxide
• Retinol
• Bisabolol
• Azelaic acid

Skincare products that can help with Acne with Post-Inflammatory Hyperpigmentation

Acne-prone skin tends to produce more sebum (oil), which can contribute to clogged pores and breakouts. Cleansers formulated for acne-prone skin can effectively remove excess oil, dirt, and impurities from the skin’s surface, helping to prevent new acne lesions from forming. Dr Webster recommends:

• NeoStrata® Mandelic Clarifying Cleanser
• Lamelle Clarity Active Cleanse

Targeted treatment products for acne contain active ingredients which reduce acne breakouts by unclogging pores, killing bacteria, and reducing inflammation. They will often help to fade dark spots, even out skin tone, and reduce melanin production. These products gradually lighten and improve the appearance of PIH over time. Dr Webster recommends:

• Hyaestic 0.5% BHA & 10% Aze Cream
• pHformula TXN Serum

Look for moisturisers that are non-comedogenic as they are formulated to have a lighter texture and are designed to moisturise the skin without adding excess oil or blocking the pores. Dr Webster recommends:

• Obagi CLENZIderm Therapeutic Moisturiser
• PCA Skin Clearskin

Using a high factor, broad-spectrum SPF which protects against harmful UV rays as well as High Energy Visible Light (HEVL). Sunscreen is essential for managing PIH, as exposure to the sun can darken and prolong the appearance of pigmentation. Dr Webster recommends:

• Heliocare 360° Pigment Solution Fluid SPF 50+
• MartiDerm Proteos Screen Color Fluid Cream SPF 50+