Post-Inflammatory Hyperpigmentation (PIH)

Post-Inflammatory Hyperpigmentation (PIH for short) is a localised form of skin darkening that can appear after inflammation or injury on the skin. It is usually made darker by unprotected exposure to UV rays. Common conditions leading to PIH are acne, insect bites, or trauma such as burns, waxing, bodily friction, or products with potent active ingredients.

Post-Inflammatory Hyperpigmentation appears as flat, darker patches or spots on the skin. The colour can vary depending on the individual’s skin tone, ranging from reddish brown, or even dark brown.

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

• Avoid harsh scrubbing or abrasive cleansers that can further irritate the skin
• Incorporate gentle exfoliation into your skincare routine
• Use skincare products that target pigmentation and acne
• Use an oil-free SPF that won’t clog your pores

Skincare ingredients that can help with Post-Inflammatory Hyperpigmentation

• Tranexamic Acid
• Kojic Acid
• Salicylic Acid
• Niacinamide
• Azelaic Acid
• Silymarin
• Retinol
• Arbutin
• Centella Asiatica

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

Cleansing removes dirt, oil, and impurities that can clog pores potentially worsen acne and trigger PIH. Dr Webster recommends:

• La Roche-Posay Pigmentclar Foaming Cream Cleanser
• SkinCeuticals Blemish + Age Cleanser Gel

Targeted treatments that have exfoliating and anti-bacterial properties help to keep pores clear of dirt and bacteria, preventing new acne lesions from forming. Dr Webster recommends:

• Obagi CLENZIderm Pore Therapy
• MartiDerm SHOTS Salicylic Imperfections

By keeping the skin moisturised, you can support its overall health and improve its ability to recover from acne-related inflammation causing PIH. Dr Webster recommends:

• MartiDerm Acniover Cremigel
• SkinCeuticals Phyto A+ Brightening Treatment
• Hyaestic 0.5% BHA & 10% Aze Cream

Since UV radiation can worsen the appearance of PIH and lead to further skin discolouration, sun protection can help prevent the darkening of existing PIH and minimise the risk of new pigmentation forming. Use a non-comedogenic formulation that won’t cause breakouts. Dr Webster recommends:

• MartiDerm Active D Fluid SPF 50+
• La Roche-Posay UV Mune 400 Inivisble Fluid SPF 50

Treatment tips that can help with Post-Inflammatory Hyperpigmentation caused by Insect Bites

Prescription

• Combined topical corticosteroid and antibiotic creams to reduce itching and prevent secondary infection

(Check with your medical professional)

Non-Prescription

• Avoid scratching as it can leave a pigmented scar as well as post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation
• Avoid exposure to the sun

Skincare products that can help with Post-Inflammatory Hyperpigmentation caused by Insect Bites

Since UV radiation can worsen the appearance of PIH it is important to use a broad-spectrum SPF. Use an easy-to-apply formulation suitable for hard-to-reach areas. Dr Webster recommends:

• Heliocare 360 Invisible Spray SPF 50
• La Roche-Posay Anthelios XL Ultra-Light Invisible Body Mist SPF 50+

Treatment tips that can help with Post-Inflammatory Hyperpigmentation caused by Burns

Prescription

• Topical antibiotic creams are usually recommended for deeper burns

(Check with your medical professional)

Non-Prescription

• Apply a cold compress or ice pack immediately after a burn
• Use a soothing Thermal Spring Water spray from France on the site to help alleviate inflammation and repair skin.
• Use sunscreen at the site of the burn as it heals
• Avoid exposure to the sun

Skincare products that can help with Post-Inflammatory Hyperpigmentation caused by Burns

A soothing spray containing Thermal Spring Water from France can be used to help calm and soothe the skin. Dr Webster recommends:

• Avène Cicalfate Absorbing Repair Spray
• Avène Thermal Spring Water 300ml

Since UV radiation can worsen the appearance of PIH it is important to use a broad-spectrum SPF. Use a gentle formulation that won’t aggravate an already weakened skin. Dr Webster recommends:

• SkinCeuitcals Physial Fusion UV Defense
• Bioderma Cicabio SPF 50+

Treatment tips that can help with Post-Inflammatory Hyperpigmentation caused by Waxing

Non-Prescription

• PIH can develop above the lip so it is important to use SPF post-waxing
• Avoid exposure to the sun
• Consider laser hair removal or threading in this area as it is far safer
• Avoid DIY at-home waxing and ensure your waxing is done by a qualified skin care therapist

Skincare products that can help with Post-Inflammatory Hyperpigmentation caused by Waxing

Targeted treatments contain anti-inflammatory and skin-brightening active ingredients. Dr Webster recommends:

• MartiDerm DSP Illuminating Serum
• Huxley Brightly Ever After Essence

Since UV radiation can worsen the appearance of PIH it is important to use a broad-spectrum SPF. Use a tinted (ideally pure physical) sunscreen that can help disguise redness without aggravating compromised skin. Dr Webster recommends:

• Colorescience Face Flex Shield (Deep) (Darker Skin)
• NeoStrata Sheer Physical Protection SPF 50 (Lighter skin)

Treatment tips that can help with Post-Inflammatory Hyperpigmentation caused by Bodily Friction

Non-Prescription

• Use an anti-chafe gel or cream to help reduce some of the friction
• Use a gentle cleanser/body wash and body cream to help calm irritation caused by rubbing

Skincare products that can help with Post-Inflammatory Hyperpigmentation caused by Bodily Friction

Using a safe body brightening cream best suited to thin-skinned areas where friction has occurred can help calm and soothe the affected area. Dr Webster recommends:

• PCA Skin Pigment Bar
• Bioderma Pigmentbio Sensitive Areas