Eczema and Post-Inflammatory Hyperpigmentation

Inflammation can stimulate extra pigment production or alter pigment distribution in the skin. Scratching, rubbing, and picking add further injury. The result may be a flat brown, grey, or darker patch where eczema was active; it is not the same as a raised scar. Colour can look more noticeable after sun exposure and may be more persistent when flares keep returning.

A new or changing dark patch is not automatically post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation. A clinician can check whether the area matches a previous eczema flare and assess other causes of uneven tone.

Treat active eczema according to a clinician’s plan and avoid scratching. Use a gentle cleanser, moisturiser, and broad-spectrum sun protection on exposed areas. Introduce no brightening product onto cracked or inflamed skin. Chemical peels, lasers, and brightening treatments can sometimes be considered after eczema is controlled, but treatment choice depends on skin tone, mark depth, and the risk of triggering more inflammation.

See a dermatologist if marks are spreading, changing in shape or texture, bleeding, painful, or appearing without a clear eczema flare. Arrange advice when pigmentation is affecting your wellbeing or when home care is not improving the underlying eczema. Treating the inflammation first is usually central to preventing new marks.

Does this colour change fit post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation? Is my eczema controlled enough for a peel, laser, or brightening treatment? Which sunscreen and topical products suit my skin? How can I reduce scratching and prevent new marks?