Postinflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH) is a common skin condition that occurs after cutaneous inflammation or injury, and it can leave dark marks and blemishes visible on the skin. PIH can arise in all skin types, but it tends to affect darker-skinned patients with greater frequency and severity. The following are some details about PIH:
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Causes: PIH can be caused by injury to the skin as a result of sunburn, surgery, laser treatment, or other cosmetic procedures. It can also be caused by an inflammatory skin condition such as an acne breakout, rash, or injury.
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Treatment: The treatment of PIH should be started early to help hasten its resolution and begins with management of the initial inflammatory condition. First-line therapy typically consists of topical depigmenting agents, such as hydroquinone, azelaic acid, kojic acid, licorice extract, and retinoids, in addition to photoprotection including a sunscreen. Other agents that have shown some depigmenting properties but require further research include 4-(1-phenylethyl)1,3-benzenediol, paper mulberry, ellagic acid, quinolines, piperlonguminine, soy, lignin peroxidase, ascorbic acid iontophoresis, arbutin, niacinamide, and mulberry. However, it is important to use caution with all of the above treatments to prevent irritation and worsening of PIH.
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Ingredients: Some natural ingredients have shown efficacy as depigmenting agents, including azelaic acid, soy, lignin peroxidase, ascorbic acid iontophoresis, arbutin, ellagic acid, licorice extracts, niacinamide, and mulberry. Other ingredients that can help with hyperpigmentation include Vitamin C, mandolin acid, retinoids, SkinMedical Lytera Skin Brightening Complex, Tri-Luma, Elure Advanced Brightening Night Cream and lotion, coffeeberry, and extracts of orchid, grape seed, Aloe vera, marine algae, or green tea.
In summary, PIH is a common skin condition that can be caused by injury to the skin or an inflammatory skin condition. The treatment of PIH should be started early and typically consists of topical depigmenting agents and photoprotection. Some natural ingredients and other ingredients, such as Vitamin C, mandolin acid, and retinoids, can also help with hyperpigmentation.
