What should you know about pie hyperpigmentation?

Inflammation can stimulate pigment production or move pigment deeper into the skin. The result may follow acne, irritation, a rash, or an injury. Marks can be lighter or darker than nearby skin and may be more noticeable after sun exposure. Their colour and depth help a clinician decide whether they are post-inflammatory marks or another cause of dark patches. A change that is new, changing quickly, bleeding, crusting, or unlike your other marks deserves assessment rather than cosmetic treatment.

Use broad-spectrum sunscreen on exposed skin and reapply as directed, especially outdoors. Keep inflamed skin calm with gentle cleansing and moisturising; picking or friction can prolong the mark. A clinician may consider Hydroquinone Treatment, Chemical Peel, IPL Photofacial, Picosecond Laser Treatment, or Skin Brightening Treatment. These options are not interchangeable: the wrong intensity or product can irritate skin and worsen darkening, particularly in deeper skin tones. Get a diagnosis and a plan before combining treatments.

Book a dermatology review if pigmentation is spreading, recurring without a clear trigger, itchy or painful, or not behaving like a healed mark. Seek prompt assessment for a spot that changes in shape or colour, develops a persistent sore, or bleeds. Get help sooner when darkening follows a severe reaction or affects the eyes or mouth.

What caused the inflammation and is it still active? Is the pigment superficial or deeper? Which sunscreen and treatment fit my skin tone? How should I prepare for a peel or laser? What signs would mean I should stop treatment and return?