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Shumaila’s Insights
Post-Inflammatory Hyperpigmentation
Post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH) are the dark spots left on the skin after an inflammatory event like acne or injury has healed.

| Overview |
|---|
| Primary Concern |
| Medical Term |
| Common Causes |
| First-Line Treatment |
| Advanced Treatment |
| Key Factor |
| Details |
|---|
| Flat, discoloured patches (pink, red, brown, or black) |
| Post-Inflammatory Hyperpigmentation (PIH) |
| Acne, eczema, psoriasis, burns, insect bites, improper extractions |
| HydraFacial |
| Polynucleotide Treatment |
| More common and persistent in darker skin tones (Fitzpatrick III-VI) |
Understanding Post-Inflammatory Hyperpigmentation (PIH)
Post-Inflammatory Hyperpigmentation is a type of skin discolouration that occurs as a direct result of irritation or injury to the skin. When the skin is inflamed (from acne, a cut, a rash, etc.), it triggers an overproduction of melanin, the pigment that gives skin its colour. This excess melanin is deposited in the skin, leaving a flat, discoloured patch long after the initial inflammation has subsided.
PIH can affect any skin type but is particularly common and more intense in individuals with darker skin tones. The colour of the spots can range from pink and red to brown and black, depending on skin tone and the depth of the discolouration.
Crucially, sun exposure can significantly darken existing PIH spots and prolong their duration, making daily sunscreen use an essential part of management and prevention.

How we at Shumaila’s can treat this
Our clinical strategy for PIH is to accelerate the fading of existing discolouration and prevent new spots from forming. We utilize a multi-tiered approach with advanced clinical treatments to improve skin health, reduce inflammation, and promote an even skin tone.
Excellent 4.9 out of 5
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Alessia
14 days agoI’ve had a great experience at Shumaila’s Clinic in Loughton. After struggling with dermatitis, rosacea, and very sensitive skin since December, I finally found a doctor that understood what was going on. Dr Filza took the time to explain everything, created the right treatment plan, and my skin has improved so much since the first appointment in June. She is professional, caring, and knowledgeable. I highly recommend this clinic to anyone struggling with skin conditions.
Aruna Vekaria
21 days agoHad the treatment done by Jaya she was really good and explained well hope it makes difference to my skin
Kiran jass
29 days agoAmazing treatment by Sonia, she really makes you feel comfortable and recommends the best treatment for your skin
alisha Sembhi967
36 days agoI had a wonderful experience at Shumaila’s, I had been struggling with a skin issue for a long time, and after starting treatment here, my skin has improved amazingly. I’m so happy with the results and finally feel confident in my skin again. The entire staff is friendly, kind, welcoming, and always ready to help. A special thank you to Gurpreet, who is incredibly knowledgeable, professional, and genuinely caring, made me feel comfortable throughout my treatment. Her friendly nature and expertise made all the difference. I highly recommend this clinic to anyone looking for effective skin treatments and excellent care. Thank you to the whole team for such a great experience!
Muhammad Usman Khan
46 days agoI had a skin consultation with Iqra and was extremely impressed with her knowledge and professionalism. She carefully assessed my skin concerns and created a treatment plan tailored to my needs. My skin has become brighter, healthier, and more radiant. I highly recommend Iqra to anyone looking for expert skin advice.
Shraddha Goswami
77 days agoIt’s nice experience with the clinic. Offers Initial consultation to discuss about problems and select treatment. Professional and expert staff, doing their jobs delicately.
Farina Rehman
81 days agoI recently visited the Shumaila’s Chingford branch and had a consultation with Rinky. She is extremely knowledgeable and really understands skin treatments well. She gave me the best recommendation for my skin concerns. I had a lot of pigmentation and acne scars, and after assessing my skin, Rinky recommended the Cosmelan Peel. At first, I was a bit apprehensive, but Rinky reassured me that it would be the best treatment for my skin. It has now been almost two weeks since I had the peel, and honestly, it’s one of the best things I’ve ever done for my skin. My skin is so much clearer already. In the past, I would never leave the house without foundation, but now I feel so comfortable and confident in my own skin using only the products recommended by her. Rinky is also very friendly and genuinely cares about her clients. Throughout the home-care treatment, I was able to reach out to her whenever I needed advice or reassurance. Rinky was always available, supportive, and made time to see me when needed, which made the whole experience even better. This has truly been the best investment I’ve made for my skin, and I would highly recommend this procedure to anyone struggling with pigmentation or acne marks. If you ever visit Shumaila’s Chingford, definitely ask to see Rinky. She genuinely recommends only what is best for you. Thank you so much, Rinky, for making me feel comfortable and confident in my own skin again!
Fateha Begum
91 days agoI recently had the Cosmelan treatment at Chingwell Shumila’s, and my consultant was Rinky. I am extremely pleased with the service I received from her. She was professional and caring throughout the process to make sure I was doing well. It has now been almost three months since my treatment, and I can already see a big improvement in my pigmentation. My dark patches have noticeably faded, and even people around me have commented on the positive change in my skin. I’m really happy with my results and with the excellent service from Rinky. I would definitely recommend the Cosmelan treatment to anyone dealing with pigmentation, and I highly suggest visiting Chingwell Shumila’s.
Kirtida Shah
99 days agoI got my pigmentation treatment from iqra oh my god my skin never looks this much good and clear really recommended thank you I was so depressed
Shahina Wadud
101 days agoI recently had the Cosmelan treatment with Rinky, and I am extremely pleased with the results. My skin has become much clearer, brighter, and more even-toned. The improvement has been amazing, and I feel so much more confident. Rinky was highly professional, knowledgeable, and supportive throughout the entire process. I would highly recommend her services to anyone looking to improve their skin.
Anum
123 days agoI had such a great experience with Harpreet! From the moment I walked in, she made me feel completely comfortable and at ease. She’s incredibly professional, knowledgeable, and takes the time to explain everything clearly, which really helped calm any nerves I had. Harpreet is also very gentle and attentive, always checking in to make sure I’m okay throughout the treatment. You can tell she genuinely cares about her clients and wants the best results for them. The whole experience felt safe, welcoming, and reassuring. I wouldn’t hesitate to recommend Harpreet to anyone considering laser treatments—she’s amazing at what she does!
Life as Yali
125 days agoI had an amazing experience with Shamaila’s for my Cosmelan treatment! From the very beginning, Nazia made me feel completely comfortable and explained every step of the process in detail, which really put my mind at ease. Her professionalism and knowledge are outstanding — you can tell she truly cares about her clients and their results. Throughout the treatment, she was attentive, gentle, and always checked in to make sure I was okay. I’ve already started to see improvements in my skin, and I’m so happy with how everything is progressing. My complexion looks brighter, clearer, and more even than before. I highly recommend Shamaila’s to anyone considering Cosmelan or any skin treatment. You’ll be in safe, expert hands!
Laudiette Accorley Jacquet
125 days agoBushra in the Colchester branch makes every treatment relaxing and enjoyable. She's very competent in her field (hyperpigmentation, PRP etc ) she explains every single step and has great customer service.
Sammy Anne
129 days agoI’m the customer for a very long time started the laser hair. Removal was very scared and petrified with the overall Google search how the pigmentation treatments come out extremely reluctant. It took me about a year but highly grateful to Upminster team specially Nazia and Rabia who has been so reassuring and been with me step-by-step I followed the routine I took their advice and just went for it today. I didn’t realise that was the bestest thing I did. My face looks different. My husband started commenting on my skin which is very unusual, but I am extremely pleased anyone looking for pigmentation treatment. Shumaila is the right place for you especially if you have coloured skin issues definitely it was worth it, thank you team. ❤️❤️
Jeet
161 days agoHi I have good experience with Irfra , Jaya & Receptionist Shivani as I'm taking treatment Of pigmentation They all taking great care Of my skin Value for money I'm happy with Shumaila's treatment Place as it is very friendly & positive Clean place It's greatly Recommend From Varsha
Tahasina Khan
202 days agohave almost completed my pigmentation treatment with Bushra at the Colchester branch, and I can honestly say the results are marvellous. Bushra answered all of my questions in a friendly and professional manner, which made me feel very comfortable throughout the process. I would highly recommend this treatment to everyone. Just keep in mind that the process can be a little painful, but the results are absolutely worth it.
Vijay Manik
220 days agoI had an excellent experience with this skin specialist, and I am extremely satisfied with the treatment and care I received. From the very first consultation, Dr. Asma, she was professional, patient, and attentive, taking the time to listen carefully to all my concerns. Every condition and treatment option was explained in a clear and understandable way, which made me feel confident and comfortable throughout the process.
rajan deep Bhullar
263 days agoFirst service of pigmentation process. Staff is very nice and friendly. Satisfied with the first service.
Parween Tchii lascariina
265 days agoI visited Colchester branch for my pigmentation treatment and im happy with the results- my practitioner is Dr Ayesha- she is professional and friendly and did explain all the process to me clearly and properly - i recommend this clinic-
Muaad Saeed
267 days agoI had pigmentation on my face and I came to shumailas and I met bushra she was very helpful and kind and my face received amazing results and I’m so happy Naimo asir
At Shumaila’s, we understand that every double chin is unique, requiring personalised treatment approaches.
Our comprehensive range of solutions allows us to recommend the most appropriate option based on your specific concerns, lifestyle, and desired outcomes.
Non Surgical
First-Line Treatments

HydraFacial
The HydraFacial treatment is an excellent first-line approach for PIH. It provides gentle exfoliation to help speed up the process of shedding pigmented surface cells, while simultaneously infusing the skin with hydrating and brightening serums. This helps to improve the skin’s overall radiance and tone.
Ideal for
Patients with mild PIH or those looking for a gentle, no-downtime option to brighten their complexion and support skin health
Results
Brighter, more radiant skin immediately after treatment. Contributes to a more even skin tone with regular sessions
Management
Can be performed as a monthly maintenance treatment to improve overall skin luminosity and gently fade surface-level pigmentation
Progressive Treatments
Advanced Treatments

Polynucleotide Treatment
For a more advanced approach, Polynucleotide Treatment is a powerful regenerative therapy that addresses PIH at a cellular level. Polynucleotides are bio-stimulators that work to repair damaged skin, reduce inflammation, and improve the skin’s natural healing capabilities. By calming the underlying inflammation that causes PIH, this treatment helps to prevent future pigmentation while repairing the skin barrier.
Ideal for
Patients with persistent PIH, compromised skin barriers, or those looking to improve overall skin health and resilience to prevent future inflammation
Results
A gradual reduction in inflammation and pigmentation, leading to a stronger, healthier, and more even-toned complexion
Management
Administered as a course of treatments to fundamentally improve skin quality and resolve pigmentation issues from within
Why choose Shumaila’s
for Eye Bag & PIH Treatment?
Expertise in All Skin Tones: We have extensive experience treating PIH safely and effectively in the darker skin tones that are most susceptible to it
Regenerative Approach: We utilize advanced Polynucleotide Treatment to repair the skin at a cellular level and reduce inflammation
Focus on Skin Health: Our combination of HydraFacial and Polynucleotides improves overall skin quality to aid recovery and prevent future issues
9 CQC-Registered London Clinics: Receive care from qualified professionals in a regulated medical setting
No available times for this period
Frequent Asked Questions
Without treatment, PIH can take many months or even years to fade. With a consistent clinical treatment plan, this process can be accelerated significantly, with visible improvement often seen within 3-6 months.
PIH is caused by a specific inflammatory event (like a pimple or cut). Melasma is a hormonal and sun-related pigmentation disorder that typically appears in symmetrical patches on the face. Our clinicians can diagnose the specific type of pigmentation you have.
While some OTC products can help with very mild cases, moderate to severe PIH typically requires a clinical treatment plan for effective and lasting results.
PIH is a response to inflammation, so if you experience new acne breakouts or skin injuries, new spots can form. The key to long-term success is to control the underlying inflammatory condition and to use a maintenance skincare regimen.
Yes, it is the single most important part of any PIH treatment plan. Sun exposure activates melanin production, which will make your existing spots darker and can cause new ones to appear. Daily use of a broad-spectrum SPF 30 or higher is non-negotiable.
Request a Consultation
One of our friendly consultants will contact you to answer your questions, and to book a consultation for your chosen treatment.