Mitchell J. Mandel, MD, FAAD
Dermatologist, founder · All offices
Post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation
Medically reviewed by Mitchell J. Mandel, M.D., F.A.A.D., Board-Certified Dermatologist. Last reviewed .
Post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation, or PIH, is darkening of the skin that stays after inflammation or injury heals. Acne, eczema, bug bites, burns, rashes and cosmetic procedures can all leave dark marks. PIH is more common and lasts longer in medium and darker skin tones.
PIH often fades over months, but treatment can speed that up. Treating the condition that caused it is just as important.
Signs and symptoms
- Flat brown, dark brown, gray or purple spots where skin was inflamed
- Marks that darken with sun exposure
How we treat it
- Treating the cause, such as acne or eczema
- Daily sun protection
- Prescription creams such as retinoids, hydroquinone and azelaic acid
- Chemical peels chosen for your skin tone
- Selected laser treatments may be considered, but lasers and peels can worsen pigmentation, especially in darker skin tones.
Where it is offered
Offered at all of our offices.
Q&A
How long do dark marks take to fade?
Without treatment, it can take months to a year or more. Treatment and sun protection may help, but some marks persist.
Is it a scar?
No. PIH is a color change and does not change the skin's texture. Marks with a dent or bump may be scars, see acne scar treatment.
Who you can see
Dustin Marks, MD, FAAD
Dermatologist · Upper East Side
Emily Tongdee, MD, FAAD
Dermatologist · Downtown Brooklyn
Emma Newman, PA-C
Physician assistant · Upper East Side
Grace Jarrett, PA-C
Physician assistant · Downtown Brooklyn
Leah Aminov, PA-C
Physician assistant · Greenvale
Karen Chen, PA-C
Physician assistant · Streeterville
Paige Yurick, PA-C
Physician assistant · Streeterville
Arielle Ades, DNP, FNP-BC
Nurse practitioner · Boulder
Francesca Raedel, FNP-BC
Nurse practitioner · Boulder
Jennifer Telgener, FNP-BC
Nurse practitioner · Boulder
Christine Sacco, FNP-C
Nurse practitioner · Palm Beach Gardens