Post-Inflammatory Hyperpigmentation: Why Marks Outlast the Pimple
2 June 2026 9 min read 915 views 0
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.
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