Healthcare professional documenting patient information with a female patient with medium skin tone

Post-Inflammatory Hyperpigmentation: Why Marks Outlast the Pimple

By Michael C. · Written and reviewed by Michael C.

Pigmentation · Published 2026-06-02 · 9 min read · 1898 words · Updated 2026-09-08

PIH is flat pigment left behind after inflammation, not a scar, and it fades with consistent sun protection and pigment-regulating care.

Key takeaways

  • PIH is a pigment overreaction to inflammation, not a textural scar, and needs different treatment.
  • Sun exposure is the biggest factor keeping marks dark and slowing their fading.
  • Niacinamide, vitamin C, azelaic acid and retinoids all have evidence for fading PIH over months.
  • Fading realistically takes three to twelve months depending on depth, not days or weeks.

This is a premium briefing. Sign in or see membership plans to read the full article -- free accounts get several full briefings every week.

Source: SkinLabs Editorial Team ()

Cover image: Vitaly Gariev — credit