When your skin heals from a pimple, cut, burn, or rash, it sometimes leaves behind a dark spot—that’s post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation, a common skin condition where excess melanin is produced after inflammation or injury. Also known as PIH, it’s not a scar, but a color change that can last months or even years, especially in darker skin tones. Unlike acne scars, which change the skin’s texture, PIH is flat and just darker than your normal skin. It’s not dangerous, but it can be frustrating—especially when it sticks around long after the original issue is gone.
This isn’t just about acne. Any kind of skin irritation can trigger it: eczema flare-ups, insect bites, chemical peels, laser treatments, or even aggressive scrubbing. The more inflamed the skin gets, the higher the chance of dark spots forming. People with brown or Black skin are more prone to it because their skin naturally produces more melanin, and inflammation can overstimulate those pigment cells. It’s not about hygiene or skincare mistakes—it’s biology. And it’s way more common than most people realize.
What helps? Not everything you see online. Hydroquinone, azelaic acid, vitamin C, and retinoids are backed by studies for fading PIH. Sunscreen isn’t optional—it’s the most important step. UV exposure makes dark spots darker and slower to fade. You don’t need expensive products. Sometimes, a simple 2% niacinamide cream used daily for 8–12 weeks does more than a $100 serum. And if you’re using harsh acne treatments or exfoliants, you might be making it worse. Slowing down can be the fastest path to clear skin.
There’s no magic fix, but you’re not stuck with it forever. Many cases improve on their own over time—especially if you protect your skin and avoid new triggers. The key is consistency, not intensity. What you’ll find below are real stories and practical advice from people who’ve dealt with this. From how to choose the right treatment to what to avoid, these posts give you the no-fluff facts you need to move past the dark spots and get back to confident skin.
Hyperpigmentation and keloids are common, persistent skin conditions in people with darker skin tones. Learn how sun protection, targeted treatments, and expert care can manage these issues effectively.
