Which Specialist Treats Post-Inflammatory Hyperpigmentation?

Choose a board-certified dermatologist or a dermatology service with experience in pigmentation concerns. The clinician may examine the colour, texture, location, and timing of each mark before recommending care.

Post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation is a darker area left after skin inflammation or injury settles. It can follow acne, eczema or another itchy rash, an insect bite, a cut, or irritation from a cosmetic or procedure. The mark may be brown, grey-brown, or deeper than your surrounding skin, depending on how pigment has been deposited.

A dermatologist checks whether the colour change fits this pattern and whether an active condition is still present. Treating ongoing acne or dermatitis matters because new inflammation can create additional marks. You can read about [Acne](/conditions/acne/) and [Atopic Dermatitis](/conditions/atopic-dermatitis/) as possible preceding conditions.

Bring a list of skin products, medicines, and recent treatments, including anything used on the affected area. Note when the original spot, rash, bite, or breakout began and whether the mark changed after sun exposure or picking.

Use gentle cleansing, avoid picking or scrubbing the area, and protect exposed skin from sunlight with broad-spectrum sunscreen and clothing. A dermatologist may discuss a topical treatment, treatment of the trigger, or a procedure such as a [Chemical Peel](/treatments/aesthetic-procedures/chemical-peel/), depending on your skin and the diagnosis. Do not start strong lightening products without guidance, because irritation can deepen pigmentation.

Arrange a dermatology assessment when a dark mark persists, keeps changing, or is difficult to distinguish from another skin condition. Seek prompt medical attention for a spot that bleeds, forms a persistent sore, develops a new irregular border or several colours, or changes noticeably over a short time. These features need assessment rather than self-treatment.

If the area is painful, warm, swollen, oozing, or accompanied by a spreading rash, arrange care for possible active inflammation or infection. For general reference, see [Dark Patches On Skin](/symptoms/dark-patches-on-skin/) and [Uneven Skin Tone](/symptoms/uneven-skin-tone/).

Ask: What caused these marks, and is the original inflammation still active? Which products should I stop or continue? How will we protect the area from further darkening? Would a topical treatment or procedure be appropriate for my skin tone? What signs would mean I should return sooner?

Mention any history of darkening after acne, rashes, bites, or procedures. Also tell the dermatologist if the marks are on areas such as the elbows, knees, or underarms, where other conditions can contribute to uneven colour; related pages include [Dark Elbows And Knees](/conditions/dark-elbows-and-knees/) and [Dark Underarms](/conditions/dark-underarms/).