Have you ever looked in the mirror and noticed dark marks where breakouts used to be? That is a sign of hyperpigmentation — more specifically, post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation. Put simply, your skin is producing too much melanin (the pigment that gives skin its color) in the area damaged by a breakout. Don't worry: it is common, and it can absolutely be improved.
What is hyperpigmentation?
Hyperpigmentation is a common skin condition characterized by darkening of the skin caused by the overproduction of melanin — the pigment that gives color to skin, hair and eyes. When excess melanin concentrates in certain areas of the skin, it forms patches, spots or areas that are darker than the surrounding skin. It can be triggered by many factors and affects all skin types.
What is post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH)?
Post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH) is darkening of the skin in areas that were previously inflamed or injured. Picking breakouts, over-exfoliation, invasive treatments and more can all cause PIH. Unlike other forms of hyperpigmentation, PIH is usually temporary and fades over time, although it can take months — even years — to disappear completely.
PIH usually appears as flat, dark spots or patches. The color can range from pink and red to brown and black, depending on your skin tone and how much melanin your skin produces. These marks tend to linger exactly where old breakouts were.
The good news is that PIH usually doesn't stay forever. Over time, the dark pigment gradually fades through the skin's natural renewal process. How quickly PIH fades varies from person to person. Sun and UV exposure can make PIH more stubborn, so protect your skin carefully with a broad-spectrum sunscreen.
Treating hyperpigmentation and PIH
Hyperpigmentation and PIH differ in a few key ways. For example, PIH is generally easier to treat with over-the-counter products containing ingredients such as Niacinamide and AHAs.
Hyperpigmentation
Hyperpigmentation is usually caused by sun exposure, hormonal changes (such as pregnancy) and certain medications like birth control. The best way to prevent it is to wear a broad-spectrum sunscreen every day. If you haven't seen signs of hyperpigmentation despite not wearing sunscreen regularly, don't get complacent: for some people, the sun's effect on skin pigment can build up silently over many years. So always protect your skin with sunscreen. PowerBright Moisturizer SPF 50 is a reliable shield that protects skin from dark spots and UV rays. If you suspect your hyperpigmentation is linked to medication or hormonal changes, consult your doctor for an accurate diagnosis.
In short, hyperpigmentation:
- Is a direct result of melanin overproduction
- Appears as patches or larger areas of skin
- Can be caused by sun exposure, certain medications, pregnancy (melasma), hormonal changes or aging
- Is often difficult to treat completely
Post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH)
PIH usually appears as small dark spots rather than spreading into patches like hyperpigmentation. It tends to fade fairly quickly and appears only after a breakout has healed. Ingredients that help fade PIH effectively include AHAs, BHAs, Retinoids, Niacinamide and Vitamin C.
Vitamin A (also known as retinol) is a common ingredient for treating hyperpigmentation, and most major skin care brands offer retinol products. Depending on the severity of your hyperpigmentation, however, you may need a prescription product. Regular professional chemical peels are also helpful for both PIH and hyperpigmentation: they speed up cell turnover, revealing fresh, brighter, healthier skin.
PowerBright Dark Spot Peel will help address your PIH and hyperpigmentation concerns. Inspired by professional peels, it combines acids with marine algae extracts for optimal exfoliation. PowerBright Dark Spot Peel quickly fades dark spots on the skin's surface while controlling the triggers of inflammation, helping prevent new dark spots and side effects such as irritation.
Ingredients that brighten skin and fade dark spots and PIH
Niacinamide
A form of vitamin B3, Niacinamide brightens skin, helps with breakouts and is gentle enough for sensitive, redness-prone (rosacea) skin.
Glycolic Acid (AHA)
"Unglues" dead skin cells and boosts exfoliation for radiant, healthy skin. Glycolic Acid is an Alpha Hydroxy Acid (AHA) naturally derived from fruit and milk. It is one of the most widely used AHAs in skin care, known for its ability to exfoliate, improve texture and address skin concerns.
Phytic Acid (AHA)
Exfoliates, smooths and brightens skin. Phytic Acid is increasingly popular in skin care for its exfoliating and brightening properties. Added to your routine, it delivers benefits such as exfoliation, brightening and protection against free radicals.
Mandelic Acid (AHA)
Gently exfoliates while brightening skin. Mandelic Acid is an Alpha Hydroxy Acid (AHA) used in skin care for its exfoliating and renewing properties. It is derived from bitter almonds and, like other AHAs, offers many skin benefits. Mandelic Acid is especially suitable for people with sensitive skin or deeper skin tones, as it is generally gentler and less likely to cause irritation.
Treating hyperpigmentation and PIH certainly has its challenges, but the good news is that both can be treated and prevented with the right skin care and a little patience. Prevention is better than cure, so invest in a science-based skin care routine today for healthy, radiant, even-toned skin.
Want to learn more about the skin care products that suit you? book an appointment & meet a Dermalogica Vietnam skin health expert for a fully personalized skin care routine.