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Post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation is a form of hyperpigmentation (darkening of the skin) caused by current or previous inflammation in the skin. PIH is not scarring. It is a temporary skin condition that, when treated properly, will gradually fade and eventually go away completely.
For most people, PIH is what is left over after inflamed acne has all cleared. Because PIH is caused by inflammation, non-inflamed acne does not leave behind any PIH.
In our virtual program, PIH is treated with topical skin lightening products and SPF. For our in-office clients, PIH is treated with IPL Photofacial or Microneedling treatments AND topical skin lighteners and SPF. On average, it will take 1-4 months for the hyperpigmentation to go away. The skin lighteners must be used twice per day and SPF daily in order for them to work properly.
PIH can start to be treated once the active acne has mostly cleared. There is no sense in treating the PIH if there is new inflamed acne causing more damage. PIH is a major concern for most clients with inflamed acne. You can assure them that this is not scarring and we help them with this towards the end of the program, once the active acne is clear.
The products we use for PIH are:
