Conditions

PIH

Post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH) is a common skin condition characterised by flat, dark patches or dark marks or spots after skin inflammation or injury. While PIH can affect all skin types, it is more prevalent and severe in individuals with darker skin tones (Fitzpatrick skin types III-VI). These dark patches, ranging from brown or black, result from excess melanin production due to trauma such as acne, burns, or insect bites. Various treatments and preventive measures can help manage and reduce the appearance of PIH, ensuring clearer and more even-toned skin.

Download Brochure

Three Types of Pigmentation

skin renewal solutions available to you

Patient
Reviews

Find a
Branch

skin renewal recommended treatments

Understanding and addressing PIH can help individuals, especially those with darker skin tones, achieve clearer, more even-toned skin. With the right treatments and preventive measures, managing PIH becomes more effective and less daunting. At Skin Renewal, our doctor-led approach ensures that we provide you with a customised treatment solution for optimal results.

What Are The Causes of PIH?

Several factors can contribute to the development of PIH, including:

Acne Vulgaris
Atopic Dermatitis
Impetigo
Contact Dermatitis
Psoriasis
Lichen Planus
Insect Bites
Burns
Laser Treatments
Chemical Peels
Cryotherapy
Injury to the skin

How PIH Affects Dark Skin

PIH is particularly prevalent in darker skin types, including individuals of mixed backgrounds with darker pigmentation. Darker skin tones are more susceptible to hyperpigmentation or dark spots due to insults to deeply pigmented skin. Common triggers include acne, cuts, psoriasis, or eczema. Additionally, shaving rash or ingrown hairs treated harshly in male patients can lead to discolouration in the beard area.

Treatment Options for PIH at Skin Renewal

While PIH often resolves on its own, this process can take months or even years. Several treatment options can help accelerate the fading of these discoloured patches:

Topical Treatments:

Azelaic Acid: Reduces pigmentation and inflammation.
Retinoids: Promote skin turnover and reduce pigmentation.
Vitamin C: Brightens the skin and reduces pigmentation.
Niacinamide: Prevents melanin transfer and reduces discolouration.

Advanced Procedures:

Chemical Peels: These exfoliate the skin and reduce pigmentation.
Laser Treatments: Targets and breaks down hyperpigmented areas.
Microdermabrasion with TA (Tranexamic Acid): Exfoliates and reduces pigmentation.
Transdermal Mesotherapy with TA (Tranexamic Acid): This delivers active ingredients directly into the skin.
Photodynamic Therapy (PDT) with TA (Tranexamic Acid): Uses light-activated compounds to treat pigmentation.
Dermapen with TA (Tranexamic Acid): Microneedling to enhance skin absorption of active ingredients.

Deep Treatments for Severe PIH:

Endymed FSR (Fractional Skin Resurfacing): Resurfaces the skin and reduces deep pigmentation.
MesoBrite: Brightening treatment for pigmentation.
Brightening IV Infusions: Glutathione and Vitamin C infusions to brighten the skin from within.

Importance of Sun Protection

Sun protection is crucial in managing and preventing further PIH. Broad-spectrum sunscreens should be used daily to prevent the darkening of existing hyperpigmented areas and protect the skin from UV-induced pigmentation.

Types Of Pigmentation

Skin Pigmentation Disorder	Description	Common Triggers	Affected Areas
Freckles (Ephelides)	Small, flat brown spots that appear after repeated sun exposure, especially in people with fair skin. They tend to become darker in summer and fade in winter. In fair skins and particularly blonde/red haired individuals, some are born with a predisposition for developing freckles.	Sun exposure/Genetics	Common on face, shoulders, and arms
Age Spots (Solar Lentigines)	Flat, tan, brown, or black spots with a distinct edge that occur due to sun exposure over many years.	Prolonged sun exposure	Common on sun-exposed areas like the face, hands, and arms
Melasma	Larger patches of brown or greyish pigmentation, often on the face. It is more common in women and can be triggered by hormonal changes. Although rare, melasma can occur in men.	Hormonal changes (e.g., pregnancy, birth control pills)	Common on the face
Post-Inflammatory Hyperpigmentation	Darker spots or patches that occur after skin injury or inflammation from conditions like acne, eczema, or lupus.	Skin injury or inflammation	Can appear anywhere on the body
Albinism	A genetic condition resulting in little or no pigment in the skin, hair, and eyes due to lack of melanin production.	Genetic mutation	Entire body
Vitiligo	Patchy loss of skin pigmentation, resulting in irregular white patches on different areas of the body. It is an autoimmune disorder where melanocytes are destroyed.	Autoimmune disorder	Can appear on different areas of the body

frequently asked
questions

Are treatments for post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation available at all Skin Renewal clinics?

Treatments for post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH) are available in Gauteng at the Morningside, Parkhurst, Rosebank, Bedfordview, Fourways, West Rand, Irene, Waterfall, Irene, Lynnwood and Brooklyn clinics, as well as in the Western Cape at Cape Quarter, Claremont, Constantia, Century City, Stellenbosch, Paarl and Willowbridge clinics, and Kwa-Zulu Natal at the Ballito, Durban and Umhlanga clinics.

What causes post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH)?

Post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH) is caused by an excess production of melanin, the pigment that gives skin its colour, in response to inflammation or injury. Common triggers include acne, burns, insect bites, eczema, psoriasis, and skin treatments like laser therapy or chemical peels. This condition can affect all skin types but is more prevalent and severe in individuals with darker skin tones.

How can I prevent post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH)?

Preventing PIH involves managing the underlying causes of skin inflammation and protecting your skin from further injury. Key preventive measures include:

Avoid picking, scratching, or squeezing acne or other skin lesions.
Use gentle skin care products to avoid irritation.
Apply broad-spectrum sunscreen daily to protect your skin from UV damage.
Seek prompt treatment for inflammatory skin conditions like eczema or psoriasis.

Frequently asked questions

Are treatments for post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation available at all Skin Renewal clinics?

What causes post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH)?

How can I prevent post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH)?

Preventing PIH involves managing the underlying causes of skin inflammation and protecting your skin from further injury. Key preventive measures include:

Avoid picking, scratching, or squeezing acne or other skin lesions.
Use gentle skin care products to avoid irritation.
Apply broad-spectrum sunscreen daily to protect your skin from UV damage.
Seek prompt treatment for inflammatory skin conditions like eczema or psoriasis.

how can we help you today?

START A
LIVE CHAT REQUEST A
BROCHURE WHATSAPP
CHAT

Reviewed on 13 January 2025 by Tyler Booth

Skin Renewal Willowbridge | Dermapen Skin Needling

Skin Renewal Willowbridge always offers excellent service! I am always greeted with warm smiles and by name, regardless of who is at reception. My treatment plan and Lisa, my therapist, have delivered consistent progress in refining deep pores and scarring and improving my overall complexion. I highly recommend visiting the team for skin concerns - they can cater to various budgets and deliver results.

Reviewed on 10 July 2024 by Monique Hart

Skin Renewal Waterfall | MesoBrite™

My skin is very complex! I’ve been suffering with breakouts from the age of 14! All has been trialed and tested! But no one has truly taken the time to really look at my skin and adjusting it to meet my personal needs. It took a little time to figure my skin out, but finally I think the team at Skin Renewal waterfall has cracked the code of my skin and slowly but surly we are making great strides in slowing and illuminating my breakouts and smoothing my skin out at the same time! Thank you also a specially to Noma who has been taking really special care of me and making sure my skin behaves. Thank you so much for looking after me and my skin and always checking in on me, truly appreciate it.

Reviewed on 6 July 2024 by Anonymous

Skin Renewal Stellenbosch | Pico Toning

I've been with Skin Renewal for quite some time now. I went to Stellenbosch because it's closest to me. I was amazed with their cleanliness and beautiful offices. The staff is super friendly and professional. I was thoroughly examined by Dr. Rulene and the best way forward was discussed. I first had very light peeling treatment and was put on a radiance cream. Follow-ups were regular, which I loved alot. I had I blood test done for best treatments. I was put on their Prepcream before I started treatment. I had a few needling treatments done by Celeste ,and saw results, the pigmentation became lighter, slow but steady progress. I continued with their Prepcream as it contains melanin suppressants. Then I went over to PICO Laser treatment. I fully trust Skin Renewal, because for them it's not about making money, but to give the best treatment that suits your skin type and problem.ive seen good results, thought, slow. I know that is what is best for my skin. I feel so much better about my skin. There is still a long road to go, but I trust Skin Renewal to do what is best. When I need advice I just chat on WhatsApp and they are more than willing to help and give advice. Thank you for great and friendly service always.

Reviewed on 1 July 2024 by Tasneem Harris

Skin Renewal Century City | Pico Fractional

Love my experience every time I get my treatment done.

Reviewed on 11 March 2024 by Sally Sabbah

Skin Renewal Cape Quarter | About IV Infusion

Every time I have gone in to get my treatment I feel like I’m pampered, respected and my concerns treated with diligence and care. I love all the staff who go beyond the call of duty to give the best treatment with all the pampering from the minute you enter their branch . Two very sweet ladies is prompt in giving you a very warm welcome and greeting at the reception and offering you a drink of your choice, water, coffee, or herb tea . Which is being prepared by another lovely lady who brings it to you. I’m so happy I discovered skin renewal Institute . Now I’ve been here for over 8 months and I’ve been working with Ricky my therapist and Wilna a wonderful nurse for a few months now. Wilna is such a lovely and caring woman, as I always say , seeing her is part of my therapy ☺️ Ricky’s level of knowledge with problem/acne skin has impressed me. As someone who has tried almost everything in the industry and visited countless dermatologists for years to treat my face, I’ve never been treated with such great attention to my skin and such a personalized action plan. He and Doctor Taryn have been working together to lighten my hyperpigmentation and I already see great improvement. I’ve done regular treatment , chemical peels, etc.. Dr Taryn also gave me the best advice and prescription ever for my hair loss issues which did work out great. Each step is explained and all my questions get the attention it needs which leaves me very motivated and excited about returning back to skin renewal cape quater each time. If you haven’t had a facial and want one with a group of highly dedicated and well-trained staff I encourage you to give skin renewal cape quater a call and enjoy!!!

Reviewed on 1 November 2022 by Mandla Lituka

Skin Renewal Waterfall | Dark Skin Laser Treatments

Susan is the best beauty therapist at Waterfall, I’ve been with her since 2017 when she was still at Brooklyn and she’s been amazing. Skin renewal Waterfall is a go to place. Excellent service

Reviewed on 26 October 2022 by Ntombi Mponda

Skin Renewal Willowbridge | Treatments for Dark Skin

My skincare journey started with Dr Ross who did the assessment and recommended treatment and products. He is just amazing. He explained in detail what’s going on with my current face routine and skin condition. Today was another pleasant experience when Monique was doing my treatments. She made me feel comfortable and she is knowledgeable. She explained each step and what to expect. She is super amazing!!!! Thank you.

Reviewed on 7 June 2022 by Constatia Maloka

Skin Renewal Waterfall | Dark Skin Laser Treatments

I had such a great experience with Noma, you are so lovely, and you created such a beautiful atmosphere. Truly exceptional customer service and my skin were actually amazing afterwards. The shoulder massage was the cherry on top. Great hands. Thank you so much, Noma. You will most definitely be seeing me again soon.

Reviewed on 6 June 2022 by Thandile Xiphu

Skin Renewal Claremont |

I’ve had such a pleasant experience with the skin renewal team in Claremont. I’ve been working with Crai-Dean for the past couple of months and the results I’m seeing are incredible. She is incredibly friendly and explains all the treatments she does on you so you understand what she’s doing and why.

Reviewed on 4 June 2022 by Precious Khumalo

Skin Renewal Irene | Salicylic Acid

The space is very clean, with beautiful decor and professional. Love the background music, so relaxing. The service was great, friendly front-desk staff, and Naledi is a great therapist who knows her job very well. She listens and gives an insightful response which is clearly understood. This place definitely knows what they are doing, no disappointments.