Shumaila’s Insights
Post-Inflammatory Hyperpigmentation
| 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
Non Surgical
First-Line Treatments
HydraFacial
Learn More about HydraFacialThe 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 healthResults
Brighter, more radiant skin immediately after treatment. Contributes to a more even skin tone with regular sessionsManagement
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
Learn More about Polynucleotide TreatmentFor 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 inflammationResults
A gradual reduction in inflammation and pigmentation, leading to a stronger, healthier, and more even-toned complexionManagement
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
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.