Post-Inflammatory Hyperpigmentation: Managing Dark Spots

Post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH) is a common issue that affects many people, particularly after an acne breakout or skin injury. Those pesky dark spots that linger after the healing process can be frustrating, especially when all you want is clear, smooth skin. But fret not! While hyperpigmentation can be displeasing to the eyes and sometimes difficult to cover up, the good news is that it doesn’t have to last forever. There are effective ways to manage and even eliminate these dark spots, helping you regain your confidence.

What causes post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation?

PIH is typically a result of inflammation, which triggers the skin to produce more melanin as part of its healing process¹. This overproduction of pigment causes visible dark spots to form on the skin’s surface. Unlike other forms of pigmentation, PIH can occur in people of all skin types, though individuals with darker skin tones may experience more noticeable and persistent marks.

Acne is one of the most common causes of PIH, but it can also result from other skin conditions like eczema, psoriasis, or even cuts and scrapes. Sun exposure can worsen these spots as UV rays stimulate even more melanin production¹, making it essential to protect your skin from the sun if you’re dealing with or trying to prevent hyperpigmentation. While these marks can be stubborn, they are not permanent, and with the right treatments, you can significantly reduce their appearance over time.

Effective treatments for post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation

There are a number of treatment options available for managing post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation, ranging from topical creams to more advanced in-clinic procedures.

1. Topical treatments

Many over-the-counter creams and serums are formulated to target hyperpigmentation. Look for ingredients like niacinamide, vitamin C, and kojic acid². These ingredients work by brightening the skin and inhibiting melanin production, gradually lightening dark spots.

Prescription-strength creams containing hydroquinone³, a strong skin lightener, can be prescribed by dermatologists for more stubborn pigmentation. It’s crucial to follow the guidance of a dermatology clinic when using stronger treatments, as improper use can lead to irritation or uneven skin tone.

2. Chemical peels

For more severe cases of PIH, chemical peels can be an effective option. These treatments involve applying an acid solution to exfoliate the skin’s top layer, encouraging new, evenly pigmented skin to emerge. Popular acids used for chemical peels include glycolic acid and salicylic acid⁴.

A chemical peel performed by a professional is much stronger than at-home options and provides more dramatic results. It’s important to note that while this treatment can significantly improve skin texture and tone, it can also cause irritation if not done properly, so consulting a skilled dermatologist is recommended.

3. Laser treatments

One of the most advanced and effective ways to treat post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation is with laser technology, particularly Pico lasers. The PicoWay and PicoSure lasers in Singapore are gaining popularity as a top treatment option for hyperpigmentation. Both lasers utilise ultra-short pulses of energy to target and break down pigmentation, helping to improve skin tone and reduce discolouration.

PicoWay laser

The PicoWay laser delivers picosecond pulses of energy, which means the laser pulse is extremely fast – measured in trillionths of a second. This high speed allows for precise targeting of pigmentation with minimal damage to the surrounding skin. By breaking up the pigment particles into smaller fragments, the body can naturally clear them away over time. PicoWay is highly effective for treating PIH because it penetrates deeply into the skin, reaching areas where pigmentation tends to be stubborn. It is suitable for all skin types and offers quicker results with fewer sessions compared to traditional lasers.

PicoSure laser

Similarly, the PicoSure laser also operates on picosecond technology, but it incorporates a unique Focus lens that amplifies its effect. This technology allows PicoSure to generate photomechanical pressure that shatters pigment particles without overheating the skin, reducing the risk of side effects like redness or scarring. PicoSure is particularly beneficial for patients with sensitive skin or those prone to post-laser inflammation. It can treat even the most challenging pigmentation issues, making it ideal for managing PIH, especially in delicate areas such as the face.

At Angeline Yong Dermatology, PicoWay and PicoSure laser treatments are offered to help reduce hyperpigmentation, acne scars, and other skin imperfections. The results are often visible after just a few sessions, making it an excellent option for those looking to improve their complexion with minimal downtime.

Preventing hyperpigmentation

While treating hyperpigmentation is important, preventing it is equally crucial. Taking care of your skin after a breakout or injury can make a world of difference in preventing dark spots from forming in the first place.

One of the simplest yet most effective tips is to avoid touching your face. Picking at pimples or scratching the skin can lead to inflammation, which only worsens the chances of hyperpigmentation developing. Keeping your hands away from your face helps minimise the risk of introducing bacteria, which can aggravate acne and lead to more noticeable PIH.

In addition, wearing sunscreen daily is key to protecting your skin from further damage. UV rays can darken existing spots and lead to the development of new ones⁵. Choose a broad-spectrum sunscreen with at least SPF 30, and reapply throughout the day if you’re outdoors.

Conclusion

Post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation can be frustrating, but it’s not something you have to live with forever. With a range of treatments available, from topical creams to advanced laser therapies, there are solutions for every skin type and condition. Protecting your skin from further damage and seeking the help of a trusted dermatology clinic will ensure you’re on the right path to achieving clearer, more radiant skin.

If you’re looking for personalised care for your skin concerns, Angeline Yong Dermatology offers comprehensive dermatological services tailored to your unique needs. Dr Angeline Yong, an experienced dermatologist accredited by the Ministry of Health, is committed to helping you achieve healthier skin with her signature personalised approach. At Angeline Yong Dermatology, the journey begins by listening to your concerns, ensuring that every treatment plan is customised to fit your individual skin condition. After all, you’re unique, and so is your skin. Start your journey to clearer skin today!

References

Postinflammatory hyperpigmentation. DermNet®. (2024, May 23). https://dermnetnz.org/topics/postinflammatory-hyperpigmentation

Davis, E. C., & Callender, V. D. (2010). Postinflammatory hyperpigmentation: a review of the epidemiology, clinical features, and treatment options in skin of color. The Journal of clinical and aesthetic dermatology, 3(7), 20–31.

Hydroquinone. National Skin Centre. (n.d.). https://www.nsc.com.sg/patients-and-visitors/Health-Library/Dermatology-Drugs/Pages/Hydroquinone.aspx

Samargandy, S., & Raggio, B. S. (2023, October 29). Chemical peels for skin resurfacing. StatPearls [Internet]. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK547752/

Maddodi, N., Jayanthy, A., & Setaluri, V. (2012). Shining light on skin pigmentation: the darker and the brighter side of effects of UV radiation. Photochemistry and photobiology, 88(5), 1075–1082. https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1751-1097.2012.01138.x

Use of this website signifies your agreement to The Terms of Use & Privacy Policy

Terms of Use

You are deemed to have entered into an agreement with Angeline Yong Dermatology and to have agreed to be bound by the terms set out below by accessing ayd.com.sg (“the Sites”) or by otherwise accessing any content found on this web site. By accessing or using the Site, you acknowledge that you have read, understood, and agreed, without limitation or qualification, to be bound by these Terms & Conditions. The Site is owned and operated by Angeline Yong Dermatology.

Intellectual Property Protection
Use of Angeline Yong Dermatology Content
Changes to the Site
Privacy Policy
No Warranty, Disclaimer of Liability and Indemnity
Force Majeure
Miscellaneous
Governing Law and Jurisdiction

Intellectual Property Protection

The contents and design of the Site and any material e-mailed to you or otherwise supplied to you in conjunction with the Site (such contents, design and materials being collectively referred to as the “Angeline Yong Dermatology Content”, are copyright of Angeline Yong Dermatology. You may not use or reproduce or allow anyone to use or reproduce any trademarks (such as ” Angeline Yong Dermatology” name and logo or other trade names appearing on the Site) for any reason without written permission from Angeline Yong Dermatology. The software, which operates the Site, is proprietary software and you may not use it except as expressly allowed under these Terms. You may not copy, modify, reverse engineer or otherwise interfere with the software.

Use of Angeline Yong Dermatology Content

You may retrieve and display the Angeline Yong Dermatology Content on a computer screen or mobile telephone, print individual pages on paper (but not photocopy them) and store such pages in electronic form for your personal, non-commercial use. You may not save or post any of the Content on blogs, Facebook, and other websites that allows viewing by the general public without written permission from Angeline Yong Dermatology. Except as expressly set out above, you may not reproduce, modify or in any way commercially exploit any of the Angeline Yong Dermatology Content.

Changes to the Site

Angeline Yong Dermatology reserves the right to change, modify, suspend, add or remove portions of the Angeline Yong Dermatology Content available on the Site at any time and to restrict the use and accessibility of the Site in its discretion and without prior notification.

Privacy Policy

The information that you provide about yourself and your company to Angeline Yong Dermatology will only be used in accordance with Angeline Yong Dermatology’s Privacy Policy Statement. We will:

retain your information only for as long as there is a business need
take reasonable steps to ensure that the information is accurate, adequate, relevant and up to date.
update or correct your information held by us whenever necessary
take appropriate measures to prevent and minimize risks of unauthorised access to the information

We may use your personal information, such as your name and contact details, for the following purposes:

to perform the services that you have requested, which may involve contacting you by telephone, mobile phone, fax machine, post or email, including sending you electronic direct mailers.
to allow us to promote our products, events and activities.

No Warranty, Disclaimer of Liability and Indemnity

Whilst every effort has been made to ensure the high quality and accuracy of the Site, Angeline Yong Dermatology makes no warranty, express or implied, concerning the Angeline Yong Dermatology Content, the Site, software or products or services available through the Site (the “Site Services”), which are provided “as is”. Angeline Yong Dermatology expressly disclaims all warranties, including but not limited to warranties of fitness for a particular purpose and warranties of merchantability. In no event will Angeline Yong Dermatology, its affiliates or other suppliers be liable for direct, special, incidental, or consequential damages (including, without limitation, damages for loss of business profits, business interruption, loss of business information or other pecuniary loss) arising directly or indirectly from the use of (or failure to use) or reliance on the Site Services, even if Angeline Yong Dermatology and its affiliates has been advised of the possibility that such damages may arise.

Angeline Yong Dermatology does not guarantee the accuracy, content, or timeliness of the Site Services or that they or related systems are free from viruses or other contaminating or destructive properties. Angeline Yong Dermatology accepts no responsibility for the content on any site to which a hypertext link from this site exists. The links are provided “as is” with no warranty, express or implied for the information provided within them.

Upon accessing to this Site, you agree to indemnify and hold harmless Angeline Yong Dermatology and its affiliates from any claims and expenses, including reasonable legal fees, related to any breach of these Terms by you or your use of any Site Services.

Force Majeure

Angeline Yong Dermatology and its affiliates will not be liable or deemed to be in default for any delay or failure in performance or interruption of the delivery of the Angeline Yong Dermatology Content resulting directly or indirectly from any cause or circumstance beyond its or their reasonable control, including but not limited to failure of electronic or mechanical equipment or communication lines, telephone or other interconnect problems, computer viruses, unauthorized access, theft, operator errors, severe weather, earthquakes or natural disasters, strikes or other labour problems, wars, or government restrictions.

Miscellaneous

Changes to these Terms. Angeline Yong Dermatology may, in its discretion, change these Terms (including those relating to your use of Site and/or the Angeline Yong Dermatology Content. When Terms are changed, Angeline Yong Dermatology will notify you by email or by publishing details of those changes by including them in these Terms. If you use the Site after Angeline Yong Dermatology has published or notified you of the changes, you are agreeing now to be bound by those changes. If you do not agree to be bound by those changes, you should not use the Site any further after they are published. Access to certain areas of the Angeline Yong Dermatology Content may be subject to additional terms and conditions.

Advertising, Third Party Content and other Web Sites. Parts of the Site may contain advertising or other third-party content. Advertisers and other content providers are responsible for ensuring that material submitted for inclusion on the Site complies with international and national law. Angeline Yong Dermatology is not responsible for any third-party content or error, omission or inaccuracy in any advertising material. The Site may contain links to other web sites. Angeline Yong Dermatology is not responsible for the availability of these web sites or their contents.

Assignment of Agreement. This agreement is personal to you and your rights and obligations under these Terms may not be assigned, sub-licensed or otherwise transferred. This agreement may be assigned to a third party by Angeline Yong Dermatology and its affiliates.

Non-Waiver. No delay or omission on the part of either party in requiring performance by the other party of its obligations will operate as a waiver of any right.

Notices. Notices to Angeline Yong Dermatology and its affiliates must be given in writing by letter.

Severability/Survival/Statute of Limitations. If any provision of these Terms is invalid or unenforceable, such will not render all the Terms unenforceable or invalid but rather the Terms will be read and construed as if the invalid or unenforceable provision(s) are not contained therein. Any cause of action of yours with respect to these Terms must be filed in a court of competent jurisdiction in Singapore, within one year after the cause of action has arisen, or such cause will be barred, invalid, and void.

Whole Agreement. Save as expressly referred to herein, any representation, warranty, term or condition not expressly set out in these Terms shall not apply.

Headings. Headings in these Terms are for convenience only and have no legal meaning or effect.

Governing Law and Jurisdiction

These Terms shall be governed by, and construed in accordance with the Laws of the Republic of Singapore. The parties irrevocably agree that the courts of Singapore shall (subject to the paragraph below) have exclusive jurisdiction to settle any dispute which may arise out of, under, or in connection with these Terms or the legal relationship established by them, and for those purposes irrevocably submit all disputes to the jurisdiction of Singapore courts. For the exclusive benefit of Angeline Yong Dermatology and its affiliates, Angeline Yong Dermatology and its affiliates shall retain the right to bring proceedings as to the substance of the matter in the courts of the country of your residence or, where these Terms are entered into in the course of your trade or profession, the country of your principal place of business.

Media.

Post-Inflammatory Hyperpigmentation: Managing Dark Spots