Does chemical peel treat post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation?

Post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation is a darkened area left after acne, eczema, an injury or another irritation has settled. A peel removes part of the outer layer of skin and can help uneven pigment become less noticeable as fresh skin develops. It does not remove the original trigger, and it cannot confirm that every dark mark is post-inflammatory pigment.

Peel strength and ingredients matter. Irritated skin, active acne, a recent sun exposure or a history of pigment changes can alter the plan. Deeper treatment is not automatically more suitable, particularly for skin that tends to darken after inflammation.

Have a dermatologist assess the mark and the cause before booking a peel. Treatment may be delayed while active acne, dermatitis or infection is controlled. Tell the clinician about retinoids, exfoliating products, cold sores, previous peels and any tendency to develop dark marks.

After treatment, follow the supplied cleansing and moisturising instructions, avoid picking or scrubbing peeling skin, and protect the area from daylight with shade and a broad-spectrum sunscreen. Contact the clinic if swelling, blistering, increasing pain or discharge develops.

Arrange a skin assessment if a mark changes quickly, bleeds, crusts repeatedly, has an irregular border or does not fit the pattern of a healed irritation. Seek prompt advice for severe burning, spreading redness, blisters or signs of infection after a peel.

Ask which peel and strength suit your skin, whether the underlying inflammation is controlled, what improvement is realistic, and which products should be paused. Also ask how to reduce the chance of pigment becoming darker after treatment.