Pictures of Post-Inflammatory Hyperpigmentation: What to Know

Post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation is colour change after inflammation or injury, not a raised scar. It can follow acne, atopic dermatitis, bites, burns, or picking. The shade may look brown, charcoal, or grey depending on skin tone and how deeply pigment sits. New inflammation can create additional marks, and sunlight may make existing colour more noticeable.

Treat the active cause gently and avoid picking, scrubbing, or untested lightening mixtures. Use broad-spectrum sun protection and reduce friction where possible. A clinician can assess whether [Post-Inflammatory Hyperpigmentation](/conditions/post-inflammatory-hyperpigmentation/) fits the pattern and discuss [Chemical Peel](/treatments/aesthetic-procedures/chemical-peel/), [Skin Brightening Treatment](/treatments/aesthetic-procedures/skin-brightening-treatment/), or [Picosecond Laser Treatment](/treatments/laser-and-energy/picosecond-laser-treatment/) when appropriate.

Seek assessment if a patch appears without a preceding rash or injury, changes rapidly, becomes itchy or painful, bleeds, develops scale, or has an irregular border. Arrange review when darkening continues despite controlling irritation, or when you are unsure whether the mark is a symptom of [Dark Patches On Skin](/symptoms/dark-patches-on-skin/) or another condition.

What caused this pigment change? Is an underlying condition such as [Acne](/conditions/acne/) or [Atopic Dermatitis](/conditions/atopic-dermatitis/) still active? Which daily products are suitable for my skin? Would a peel, topical plan, or laser be reasonable?