What Is Post-Inflammatory Hyperpigmentation (PIH)?
PIH is the flat, dark mark left behind after the skin has been through some form of inflammation or injury — most commonly a healed pimple, but also cuts, burns, eczema flares or even skin treatments themselves. It can appear brown, grey or purplish depending on your skin tone, and while it fades on its own over time, this can take many months without support.
PIH is different to acne scarring, which involves a change in skin texture (indents or raised tissue) rather than just colour — many clients have some of both. If texture change is your main concern, see our Acne Scarring page.
What Causes It?
- Acne and breakouts — the most common cause of PIH, especially when spots are picked or squeezed
- Skin injury or trauma — cuts, burns, insect bites and other injuries can all leave marks behind
- Inflammatory skin conditions — eczema, psoriasis and other flare-ups can trigger PIH once they settle
- Aggressive treatments without proper aftercare — this is why gentle, well-managed treatment and correct post-care matters
How We Assess It at Cosmetic Skin Co
PIH-prone skin needs a careful touch — treatments that are too aggressive can actually trigger more pigmentation rather than fixing it. At your consultation, Lisa will assess your skin tone, how your skin has reacted to inflammation in the past, and build a barrier-focused, conservative plan that fades existing marks without provoking new ones.
Recommended Treatments
- Pigmentation Spot Treatment — Pigmentation Spot Treatment — Q-Switched Nd:YAG laser, used at a considered strength for PIH to fade marks without triggering further pigmentation.
- Skin Peels — Skin Peels — gentle chemical exfoliation to support even tone and texture, selected carefully for PIH-prone skin.
- Laser & IPL Facial — Laser & IPL Facial — our all-round Laser & IPL treatment, used cautiously alongside PIH-specific skincare.
Because PIH-prone skin can be reactive, we favour a gentler, progressive approach — your consultation is where we confirm what’s genuinely safe for your skin.
Recommended Skincare
- Cosmetic Skin Co Reusable Makeup Removal Pads (3-Pack) — Cosmetic Skin Co Reusable Makeup Removal Pads (3-Pack) — Lisa’s own go-to, used with every client in clinic; ultra-fine reusable microfibre pads that gently remove makeup without the rubbing or friction that can aggravate PIH-prone skin.
- Barrier B — Barrier B — 10% Niacinamide & Hyaluronic Acid serum; niacinamide is one of the best-supported ingredients for calming and fading PIH.
- Dermaceutic K Ceutic — Dermaceutic K Ceutic — repairing recovery cream that nourishes traumatised or post-treatment skin, supporting healing and reducing the risk of further marks.
- Queen Crème — Queen Crème — restorative antioxidant and peptide moisturiser that hydrates, soothes and helps protect compromised skin.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will PIH fade on its own?
Often, yes — but it can take many months to over a year without support. Treatment and the right skincare can speed this up significantly.
How do I stop new PIH from forming?
Avoid picking or squeezing breakouts, treat inflammation early, and use daily SPF — sun exposure can darken existing PIH and slow fading.
Is PIH the same as melasma?
No — PIH follows a specific injury or inflammation, while melasma is a broader, hormonally-driven condition. See our Melasma page if that sounds more like what you’re experiencing.
Will treatment make my PIH worse?
It can if the wrong treatment or intensity is used, which is why we assess carefully and take a conservative approach with PIH-prone skin.
Can I have PIH treatment in summer?
Yes — summer treatments can still go ahead, as long as your skin is well prepped beforehand and you continue to follow your post-treatment care instructions.
Book a Consultation
Ready to talk about fading your PIH safely? Book a free skin consultation with Lisa and get a treatment plan tailored to your skin.