Vitamin C for Post-Inflammatory Hyperpigmentation

Post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation is a darker mark left after acne, eczema, irritation, or another injury settles. Vitamin C is an antioxidant used in skincare; topical preparations may interfere with steps involved in making melanin and may help the colour look more even over time. It does not erase the underlying trigger, and a mark can become darker when the skin is repeatedly inflamed or exposed to ultraviolet light. Read more about [Post-Inflammatory Hyperpigmentation](/conditions/post-inflammatory-hyperpigmentation/) and [Dark Patches On Skin](/symptoms/dark-patches-on-skin/).

Choose a product designed for facial skin and follow its label. Apply a small amount to calm, dry skin, then use moisturiser if needed. Start on an infrequent schedule and increase only if your skin remains comfortable. Patch testing can reveal irritation before you use it more broadly. Daily broad-spectrum sunscreen helps prevent ultraviolet exposure from deepening the mark; it also supports progress from any brightening routine. Do not apply vitamin C over broken, freshly exfoliated, or actively inflamed skin. If acne or dermatitis keeps causing new marks, treating that condition matters more than adding another brightening product. Options such as [Chemical Peel](/treatments/aesthetic-procedures/chemical-peel/) or [Skin Brightening Treatment](/treatments/aesthetic-procedures/skin-brightening-treatment/) need professional suitability advice.

Arrange a dermatology assessment if a patch changes quickly, bleeds, crusts, becomes painful, or does not fit the pattern of a fading mark. Seek advice sooner when a product causes persistent burning, swelling, blistering, or a spreading rash. A clinician can distinguish post-inflammatory marks from melasma, infection, or another skin problem and can review stronger treatment options safely.

Could this mark be post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation, or is another diagnosis more likely? Which vitamin C formula suits my skin and current medicines? What should I stop if stinging or redness develops? Should the inflammation that caused the mark be treated first?