Post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation, or PIH, is the darkening of skin that follows inflammation or injury. It is extremely common, and understanding why it happens is the first step to managing it well.
PIH is assessed carefully at Regener8 because the right approach depends heavily on skin type and cause.
What PIH is
PIH is a flat area of increased pigmentation that appears where the skin has been inflamed or injured. Common triggers include acne, eczema, a reaction to a product, or an overly aggressive cosmetic procedure. The marks left behind are the skin's pigment response to that inflammation.
Why it happens
When skin is inflamed, pigment-producing cells called melanocytes can be stimulated to produce excess melanin, which is then deposited in the skin. This is a normal protective response that has simply overshot, leaving a visible mark after the original inflammation has settled.
Who is most at risk
PIH can affect anyone, but it is more common and often more persistent in richer skin tones, because more active melanocytes mean a stronger pigment response. This is a key reason why treatment must be planned according to skin type, and why aggressive treatment can sometimes worsen the problem.
How it is assessed and treated
Managing PIH almost always requires both professional treatment and consistent homecare, with daily SPF as an essential part of the plan. At Regener8 it is addressed within the Pigment Correction Programme, planned around your skin type, the cause and your risk profile.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will PIH fade on its own?
PIH often fades gradually over months, but this varies and it can persist, particularly in darker skin or with ongoing sun exposure. Assessment helps identify the safest way to support fading and prevent recurrence.
Can I treat PIH while I still have acne?
Active inflammation should be controlled first, because treating pigmentation while inflammation continues tends to be counterproductive. Assessment determines the right sequence for your skin.
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Book a £25 consultation at Regener8 Aesthetics and speak with a practitioner who will assess your skin honestly and recommend only what will genuinely benefit you. Consultations available in English, Farsi and Russian at our clinic in Selly Oak, Birmingham.
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