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Post Inflammatory Hyperpigmentation (PIH) occurs after an injury or inflammation of the skin. These dark spots and pigmentation appear after nasty breakouts, eczema, psoriasis, cuts, and even wounds. For those unaware, as skin heals from trauma, it produces excess melanin, leading to the said discoloration. However, several treatments, home remedies, and professional procedures can wane these patches for an even skin tone.
Aside from making your complexion patchy, PIH can also be a constant reminder of skin trauma or discomfort. So, keep reading for surefire solutions for PIH.
Who Are More Prone To PIH (Post Inflammatory Hyperpigmentation)?
Studies show that certain people are more susceptible to PIH or Post Inflammatory Hyperpigmentation (PIH). That’s right. Folks with deeper complexions are more prone to spots and pigmentation after injury to the skin – due to the excess melanin production.
Additionally, here are some factors that can lead to or exacerbate Hyperpigmentation
1. Acne: PIH can develop after your skin heals from an acne outbreak.
2. Sun exposure: Continued solar exposure can aggravate Post Inflammatory Hyperpigmentation or PIH.
3. Hormonal changes: Hormonal changes can also increase melanin production, making your skin more prone to PIH.
Prevention Tips For PIH (Post Inflammatory Hyperpigmentation)
If you’re prone to Post Inflammatory Hyperpigmentation (or PIH) here are some ways to prevent it altogether
1. Don’t pick on your acne: If you have active acne, avoid popping pimples at all costs. Picking on your zits can aggravate hyperpigmentation, leading to an uneven complexion.
2. Use sunscreen daily: To prevent your PIH from worsening, apply two fingers’ worth of sunscreen in your morning routine. If you plan on staying outdoors for a long time, reapply every two hours.
3. Treat inflammation and skin conditions early on: To prevent PIH, treat inflammatory conditions like acne early on. We recommend using gentle yet meticulous ingredients like Salicylic Acid, Benzoyl Peroxide, or Niacinamide for your skincare routine.
Effective Treatments For Post Inflammatory Hyperpigmentation (PIH)
You can opt for one of the following treatments based on the severity of your PIH or Post Inflammatory Hyperpigmentation-
1. Topical treatments
Ingredients like Vitamin C, Niacinamide, and Tranexamic Acid wane pigmentation albeit via different pathways. Keep scrolling to learn more about these actives.
- Vitamin C: Topical application of Vitamin C inhibits melanin production to fade hyperpigmentation. Additionally, using this ingredient in your AM routine shields the skin against aggressors, pollutants, and harmful UV rays.
- Niacinamide: Another ingredient that works wonders on hyperpigmentation is Niacinamide. This skincare workhorse curbs the melanin distribution across skin cells to fade spots and patches over time.
- Hydroquinone: The skin lightening agent inhibits the enzyme tyrosinase, which is responsible for melanin production. Use it topically to fade dark spots and pigmentation and prevent further discoloration.
2. Professional Treatments
If you’re grappling with severe Post Inflammatory Hyperpigmentation or (PIH), you can opt for the below professional treatments under the guidance of a board-certified dermatologist.
- Chemical peels: This process involves the use of high concentration Glycolic Acid or Lactic Acid to exfoliate the dermis. Results? Reduced spots and blemishes.
- Laser Therapy: Also known as skin resurfacing, laser therapy uses directed beams of light to boost Collagen production for an even complexion.
3. Home remedies
Folks with mild PIH can opt for the following home remedies. The best part about using these DIY recipes? They are effective, easy on the pocket, and don’t have any side effects.
- Aloe vera: Aloe vera inhibits melanin production to fight pesky dark spots and patches. If you have an aloe vera plant at home, use its gel overnight to wake up to even, bright, and beautiful skin in the AM.
- Licorice extracts: Gladbirdin-rich licorice interferes with melanin production to wane spots and pigmentation. You can mix licorice extract with yogurt and honey for a DIY brightening mask at home.
- Turmeric: Curcumin (a compound in turmeric) breaks down melanin for a smooth, even-toned complexion. You can whip up a paste with honey, yogurt, or milk. Apply this turmeric concoct on the affected areas and wash it off after 10 to 15 minutes.
Dos And Don’ts For PIH
Here are some dos and don’ts for PIH that you should bear in mind
DOs
1. Always wear sunscreen. Experts suggest that Indian skin needs SPF 30 or more.
2. Be consistent with your skincare routine for quick and long-lasting results.
3. Remember to moisturize in your morning and nighttime routine.
DON’TS
1. Refrain from using harsh cleansers and exfoliants
2. Don’t layer redundant active ingredients
3. Don’t expect overnight results
Conclusion
Post Inflammatory Hyperpigmentation can appear after acne outbreaks, eczema, psoriasis, cuts, and even wounds. Luckily, there are several topical treatments, home remedies, and professional procedures to help wane these spots and patches over time.
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