Does post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation cause dark patches on skin?

Post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation can follow acne, eczema, dermatitis, bites, burns, cuts, or irritation from picking and treatments. The marks may be light brown, dark brown, grey, or nearly black, depending on your skin tone and how deeply pigment has collected. They usually occur where the inflammation was, while the surrounding skin remains its usual colour. Sun exposure can deepen the contrast and make the patches more noticeable. A new or changing dark mark still needs assessment because not every patch is post-inflammatory.

Treat the underlying inflammation with guidance and avoid scratching, squeezing, harsh scrubs, or untested lightening products. Use a broad-spectrum sunscreen on exposed areas and reapply as directed; hats and clothing add useful protection. A dermatologist may consider topical ingredients or procedures after checking the cause, skin tone, sensitivity, and whether inflammation is still active. Improvement is gradual, and irritation from treatment can create further pigment.

Arrange a dermatology review for a patch that is new without a preceding rash or injury, changing in size, shape, or colour, bleeding, crusting, painful, or persistently itchy. Seek earlier advice when several marks appear without an obvious trigger or when a treatment causes burning, blistering, or worsening discolouration.

Ask what started the pigmentation, whether inflammation is still active, which ingredients are safe for your skin, how to protect the area from sunlight, and when a changing mark needs reassessment.