Clearing your acne is a huge win—but seeing dark spots left behind can feel discouraging. Post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH) is one of the most common concerns we see after breakouts resolve, and it often takes longer to fade than people expect.
The good news? PIH is treatable. With the right approach, patience, and consistent care, skin tone can gradually even out and glow again.
In this guide, we’ll cover:
What Is Post-Inflammatory Hyperpigmentation?
Post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation, or PIH, appears as flat dark marks that remain after inflammation has healed. Acne is the most common trigger, but PIH can also develop after insect bites, rashes, burns, or any skin injury.
PIH occurs when inflammation signals the skin to produce excess melanin as part of its healing response. Once the blemish resolves, pigment remains behind as a visible mark.
PIH can appear as:
Pink, red, or purplish marks
Brown or dark brown spots
Grayish tones in deeper skin tones
While PIH can affect all skin types, it tends to be more common and longer-lasting in medium to deep skin tones due to higher melanin activity.
PIH vs. Acne Scars: What’s the Difference?
This distinction matters.
PIH is a color issue. The skin surface is smooth, but pigment remains.
Acne scars are a texture issue. They involve indentations or raised areas caused by collagen damage.
PIH is not permanent. Acne scars often require in-office treatments to improve.
Why Acne-Prone Skin Heals More Slowly
If your skin takes a long time to heal, you’re not imagining it. Acne-prone skin often heals more slowly—especially after cystic or inflamed breakouts.
Chronic inflammation, repeated injury, and a compromised skin barrier all slow the repair process. When healing is delayed, pigment-producing cells stay active longer, making PIH more stubborn.
This is why supporting skin healing, not just pigment correction, is so important.
Speed Healing With Growth Factors, Stem Cells & Exosomes
Advanced healing ingredients like growth factors, stem cell cytokines, and exosomes help support the skin’s natural repair mechanisms instead of aggressively stripping pigment.
These ingredients work by:
Encouraging healthy cell regeneration
Reducing lingering inflammation
Supporting collagen production
Improving wound healing and recovery
For acne-prone skin, this support is critical. When skin heals more efficiently, discoloration fades more naturally and evenly over time.
What Dark Red or Purple Marks Really Mean
Not all post-acne marks are brown.
If you’re seeing dark red, deep pink, or purplish spots, this usually indicates increased blood flow to the area—a sign that the skin is still actively healing.
These marks are common after severe or cystic acne and reflect:
Ongoing tissue repair
Active collagen remodeling
Persistent inflammation resolution
This stage is normal and temporary.
How Long Does This Phase Last?
After deeper breakouts, healing can take up to 9 months. As inflammation resolves and blood flow normalizes, these marks gradually fade.
Supporting the skin during this phase is key.
Why Daily SPF Is Non-Negotiable for PIH
Sunscreen is one of the most important—and most overlooked—steps in treating PIH.
When healing skin is exposed to UV light, it responds by producing more melanin as a protective mechanism. This means even brief sun exposure can darkly re-pigment healing marks.
Think of PIH as a healing wound:
Sun exposure signals danger
Melanin increases to protect the area
Discoloration deepens and lasts longer
✔ Wear a broad-spectrum, acne-safe SPF 30 or higher every day
✔ Reapply when outdoors
✔ Remember that UV exposure includes cloudy days and incidental sun exposure
Daily sunscreen is one of the best ways to prevent PIH from turning into hyperpidgmentation.
How Long Does PIH Take to Fade?
PIH requires patience.
On average, it takes 6–9 months for PIH to fade, sometimes longer depending on:
Depth of pigment
Skin tone
Consistency of treatment
Sun exposure
Overall skin health
Trying to rush the process with harsh treatments often makes discoloration worse.
Best Topical Ingredients for Treating PIH
Look for products that address both pigment and healing:
Vitamin C
Brightens uneven tone, supports collagen, and provides antioxidant protection.
Azelaic Acid
Reduces inflammation, helps regulate pigment-producing cells, and supports gentle turnover.
Tranexamic Acid
Potent anti-inflammatory properties and inhibits pigment formation while fading current dark spots.
Alpha Arbutin
Prevents hyperpigmentation, and reduces scarring. (safe alternative to hydroquinone)
Niacinamide
Calms inflammation, strengthens the barrier, and improves overall tone.
Growth Factors & Stem Cell Cytokines
Support regeneration, wound healing, and recovery—especially helpful for acne-prone skin.
Retinoids
Increase cell turnover, fade discoloration, and help prevent future acne.
Our Favorite Products for Healing and Lightening PIH
Pro Tip: One of Our Favorite Ways to Prevent & Treat PIH
One of the most effective ways we help clients prevent and fade post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation is by mixing two proven brightening formulas:
GlyMed Plus Radiant Serum with 1% Mandelic Acid + GlyMed Plus Daily Skin Clarifier
Why this combination works so well:
Radiant Renewal Serum (mandelic acid) gently exfoliates and keeps pores and follicles clear without irritating acne-prone skin
Daily Skin Clarifier provides botanical brightening and antioxidant support to calm inflammation and reduce excess pigment
Together, they address both the cause of PIH (inflammation) and the pigment itself
The combination is effective yet gentle enough for consistent use—key for long-term results
How to use:
Mix a small amount of each in your palm and apply to clean skin as directed. This pairing works beautifully for both preventing PIH during active acne and fading discoloration once breakouts heal.
This is a go-to strategy in our clinic because it supports healing, brightening, and barrier health—without over-stripping the skin.
How to Prevent Post-Inflammatory Hyperpigmentation
Prevention is always easier than correction.
Treat acne early to minimize inflammation
Never pick or pop—use clay masks, enzymes, or icing instead
Wear sunscreen daily
Avoid over-exfoliation and harsh products
The calmer the skin, the less pigment it produces.
Post-Inflammatory Hyperpigmentation (PIH) – Frequently Asked Questions
What causes post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation?
PIH occurs when inflammation triggers excess melanin production during the healing process. Acne is the most common cause, but PIH can also follow rashes, insect bites, burns, or any skin injury. The more inflammation involved, the more likely pigment will remain behind.
Is post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation permanent?
No. PIH is not permanent, but it does take time to fade. With consistent care, most PIH improves significantly within 6–9 months, though deeper pigmentation can take longer.
Why does PIH take so long to heal?
Acne-prone skin often heals more slowly due to chronic inflammation and barrier disruption. When healing is delayed, pigment-producing cells stay active longer. Supporting skin repair—not just lightening pigment—is key to faster, healthier fading.
What’s the difference between PIH and acne scars?
PIH affects skin color, not texture. The skin feels smooth, but discoloration remains. Acne scars change the texture of the skin and may appear as indentations or raised areas. PIH can fade over time; scars often require in-office treatment.
Why are my post-acne marks red or purple instead of brown?
Red, pink, or purple marks usually indicate increased blood flow to the area, meaning the skin is still actively healing. This is common after cystic or severe acne and is a normal part of the repair process.
How long do red or purple post-acne marks last?
After deeper breakouts, these marks can take up to 9 months to fully fade. As inflammation resolves and blood flow normalizes, the color gradually softens. Supporting healing and wearing sunscreen helps speed this process.
Does sun exposure make PIH worse?
Yes. Sun exposure signals the skin to produce more melanin as a protective response, which darkens existing PIH and prolongs healing. Daily use of an acne-safe SPF 30 or higher is essential.
Can PIH come back after it fades?
Yes, if new inflammation occurs. Treating acne early, avoiding picking, and protecting the skin from UV exposure helps prevent new pigmentation from forming.
Can over-exfoliating make PIH worse?
Yes. Over-exfoliation damages the skin barrier and increases inflammation, which can worsen pigmentation. Gentle, strategic exfoliation works better than aggressive treatments.
Should I treat PIH if I still get acne?
Yes—but carefully. The goal is to treat both acne and pigment without irritating the skin. Barrier support, healing ingredients, and sunscreen are essential when managing both concerns at once.
When should I seek professional help for PIH?
If PIH isn’t improving after several months of consistent care, or if you’re unsure which ingredients are safe for your skin, professional guidance can help you avoid setbacks and tailor a routine that supports healing.
The Bottom Line
Post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation isn’t just a pigment issue—it’s a healing issue.
When you:
Support the skin’s repair process
Protect healing skin from UV exposure
Understand that red and purple marks are part of recovery
Stay consistent for several months
your skin can fully restore itself.
Healing takes time—especially for acne-prone skin—but with the right care, even tone and healthy glow are absolutely achievable.
Struggling with breakouts?
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Author
Celine LeClerc
Celine LeClerc is a licensed esthetician, Certified Acne Specialist, and the lead esthetician at Art of Skin Care, where she also serves as the Director of Education and Research & Development. With 14 years of experience in the skincare industry, Celine is renowned for her deep expertise and exceptional ability to match clients with the most effective, results-driven skincare solutions.
Guided by a passion for innovation, Celine scours the globe in search of cutting-edge, science-backed products that deliver visible transformations while supporting skin health at every stage of life. Her expertise spans everything from clearing stubborn acne to creating advanced, holistic routines for healthy aging.
At Art of Skin Care, Celine leads with a commitment to education, training both clients and estheticians on the latest advancements in skincare. Her mission is to empower individuals with the knowledge, tools, and routines they need to achieve radiant, resilient skin without compromise.
