Post-Inflammatory Hyperpigmentation (PIH)

Post-Inflammatory Hyperpigmentation (PIH) is a skin condition where dark patches or spots develop following inflammation or injury to the skin. This condition occurs when the skin produces excess melanin – the pigment responsible for skin colour – as part of the healing process. PIH is common in individuals with darker skin tones (Fitzpatrick skin types III-VI), where it can be more pronounced and long-lasting. Although PIH is not physically harmful, its appearance can cause emotional distress, impact self-esteem, and affect overall quality of life.

PIH appears as flat, discoloured patches or spots in the same areas of previous skin injury or inflammation. The colour varies based on the depth of the pigmentation:

• Epidermal PIH: Brown or dark brown patches that are superficial and tend to resolve faster.
• Dermal PIH: Blue-grey patches caused by melanin deposits deeper in the skin, which can persist longer or become permanent if untreated.

Post-Inflammatory Hyperpigmentation (PIH) Pictures

Both PIH and Post-Inflammatory Erythema (PIE) are skin conditions caused by inflammation or injury. PIE appears as red or pink marks due to damaged capillaries, typically affecting lighter skin tones, while PIH presents as dark patches from excess melanin production, more common in darker skin tones.

Preventing PIH involves minimising skin irritation and inflammation while protecting the skin from further damage:

• Sun Protection: Use broad-spectrum sunscreen (SPF 30 or higher) daily to prevent UV rays from worsening pigmentation or causing new spots.
• Treat Inflammation Early: Promptly address acne, eczema, and other inflammatory conditions to reduce the risk of PIH.
• Avoid Picking or Scratching: Squeezing pimples or damaging inflamed skin can worsen hyperpigmentation.

Treatment of PIH is multi-faceted and typically involves a combination of topical therapies, chemical peels, and laser treatments to effectively reduce and eliminate pigmentation:

Treatment Options	Description
Topical Treatments	Skin-lightening agents like hydroquinone, azelaic acid, kojic acid, and retinoids reduce melanin production and promote skin cell turnover.
Chemical Peels	Peels with glycolic, salicylic, or trichloroacetic acid exfoliate the skin, removing darkened cells and encouraging regeneration.
Laser Treatment	Q-Switched and Fractional CO2 lasers can target deeper pigmentation, though they must be used cautiously, especially in darker skin tones.
Sun Protection	Rigorous use of sunscreen is essential throughout treatment to prevent darkening of existing spots and avoid new pigmentation.
At-Home Skin Care Products	Products containing Vitamin C and niacinamide can help brighten the skin and reduce pigmentation, although they are generally less effective for severe cases.

Even with treatment, PIH can take anywhere from months to years to fade, depending on the severity and depth of the pigmentation. It is best to consult your doctor or dermatologist to determine the most suitable approach for you.

Owing to the regulations of The Ministry of Health (MOH), we are unable to publish before and after photos on our website. However, you may view these photos during your consultation with our doctor to understand more about the treatment you seek.

At Medical Aesthetics, we provide treatment for PIH with the prices as follows:

Treatment	Price*
Consultation	From $38.15 to $70.85
Topical Treatment
Retinoid	From $21.80
MA Anti-Pigment Cream	$70.85
MA Ultra Lightening Cream	$129.71
Skinuva Brite	$152.60
Sente Cysteamine HSA Pigment & Tone Corrector	$223.45
Supplements
Miriqa Skin Extra Strength Supplements	$170.04
Crystal Tomato® Whitening Supplement	$196.20
Chemical Peels
Chemical Peels	From $114.45
Laser Treatment
Q-Switched Laser	From $272.50 / session
Fractional CO2 Laser	From $436 / session

*Prices are NETT and inclusive of GST.

1. All patients are required to undergo a consultation with our doctor to assess his or her suitability for the relevant treatment(s).
2. If you are keen on skin tightening treatments, feel free to talk to our doctor at Medical Aesthetics to let us best understand your concerns.
3. Our Toa Payoh clinic is located a sheltered 3 minutes walk away from Toa Payoh MRT, conveniently located in Central Singapore.

While not physically harmful, PIH can affect your self-esteem and confidence due to visible dark patches on the skin. Prevention starts with addressing the causes, including proper sun protection and early intervention for inflammation. However, treatment may be necessary to achieve optimal results, especially in more severe cases. At Medical Aesthetics, we offer a range of treatments specifically designed to address pigmentation. Take the first step toward clearer skin by booking a consultation with us today.