Physician-Supervised · Skin of Color
Treating Post-Inflammatory Hyperpigmentation in Skin of Color
Post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH) is the dark mark left behind after skin inflammation — acne, a cut, a bug bite, or an irritating treatment. In melanin-rich skin, almost any inflammation can trigger PIH, and the marks can linger for months. The most important step is calming the underlying inflammation first, then fading the residual pigment gently.
Request a ConsultationOpening June 26, 2026
Understanding the Condition
Treating Post-Inflammatory Hyperpigmentation in Skin of Color
Post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH) is the dark mark left behind after skin inflammation — acne, a cut, a bug bite, or an irritating treatment. In melanin-rich skin, almost any inflammation can trigger PIH, and the marks can linger for months. The most important step is calming the underlying inflammation first, then fading the residual pigment gently.
This page is for patients with deeper skin tones who are left with dark spots after breakouts or injuries. If your acne clears but the marks stay, or if past treatments left new dark spots, a PIH-aware, physician-supervised plan can help.
Our Approach
How We Treat It — Carefully, for Skin of Color
We treat PIH in two parts: first reduce the source of inflammation, then support the skin in clearing the leftover pigment. That means gentle, calibrated treatments — conservative microneedling, supportive topicals, and a barrier-friendly routine with daily sunscreen — chosen specifically to avoid adding new inflammation to melanin-rich skin. Fading is gradual, and we pace treatment to your skin's response.
Calibrated Options
Treatments We May Consider
Every plan is matched to your skin during a physician-supervised consultation. Some options are used cautiously, or not at all, for Fitzpatrick III–VI skin.
Microneedling
Microneedling
At conservative settings, microneedling can support skin renewal and help fade post-inflammatory marks over a series, spaced to protect darker skin. Learn more
Peels & Skincare
Supportive topicals & sun protection
A gentle, barrier-supporting routine with daily sunscreen helps marks fade faster and reduces the chance of new PIH forming. Learn more
Common Questions
Questions, Answered
What triggers PIH in darker skin?
Any inflammation can — acne, picking, ingrown hairs, injury, or harsh treatments. Because melanin-rich skin reacts strongly to inflammation, even minor irritation can leave a dark mark, which is why calming inflammation comes before fading pigment.
How is PIH different from melasma?
PIH follows a specific inflammatory event and usually fades over time as the skin recovers, while melasma is a chronic, hormone- and sun-driven pattern that tends to recur. They can look similar and sometimes coexist, so an in-person assessment helps tailor the right plan.
Which treatments avoid making PIH worse?
Gentle, low-inflammation options — conservative microneedling, supportive topicals, and daily sun protection. We avoid aggressive or heat-based treatments that can add inflammation to melanin-rich skin and deepen the marks we are trying to fade.
How long does PIH take to fade?
It varies by depth and skin tone, but PIH typically fades gradually over weeks to many months. Supportive treatment and consistent sun protection can help it resolve faster, while sun exposure can prolong it.
Not ready to book? Let us call you.
Tell us what you're curious about and our team will reach out, usually the same day.
Prefer to text? Text us at (571) 376-9991
Not sure which approach fits your skin?
The safest first step for melanin-rich skin is a physician-supervised consultation. We will tell you honestly what may help — and what to avoid. Kintsu Medical Aesthetics opens June 26, 2026 in Manassas Park, VA.
Last updated: June 2026