What should you know about PIH post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation?

When skin becomes inflamed, pigment-producing cells can release extra melanin. The resulting flat mark may remain after a spot, rash, bite, wound, or procedure has healed. Acne and atopic dermatitis are common settings for this change. Marks can be brown, slate-grey, or deeper than the surrounding skin, and their location and depth affect how they fade. PIH itself is not contagious and is different from an active rash.

Treat active acne, eczema, or another source of irritation rather than repeatedly rubbing the mark. Cleanse gently, moisturise, and use broad-spectrum sunscreen on exposed skin; hats and shade add useful protection. A clinician may recommend a prescription cream, chemical peel, skin-brightening approach, or a selected picosecond laser. Avoid picking and avoid stacking several strong products, since fresh irritation can create new marks beside the old one.

Have a new or unusual dark patch examined if it changes shape or colour, develops a raised area, bleeds, crusts, or persists without a clear inflammatory event. Seek advice sooner when a product causes intense burning, swelling, blistering, or an expanding rash. A clinician can distinguish PIH from other causes of uneven tone and adjust treatment safely.

Ask what triggered the mark, whether the underlying condition is controlled, which treatment is suitable for your skin tone, and how long to continue before judging progress.