What Causes Postinflammatory Hyperpigmentation
Acne formation triggers an inflammatory response in the body, which leads to an increase in white blood cell activity in the affected tissues. This activity stimulates an increase in melanin production.
This excess melanin accumulates into clusters, which darkens the skin. This results in the appearance of the scattered darkened patches of skin characteristic of PIH.
Acne Scars Vs Hyperpigmentation
Often, people confuse the term post-acne hyperpigmentation and acne scarring. Acne scarring is used to describe any disturbance to the skin post-spot.
While it’s true that both post-acne hyperpigmentation and acne scarring can occur after a breakout, the two are very different.
An acne scar occurs when there’s a physical alteration in the texture of the skin. Unlike acne scarring, post-acne hyperpigmentation is simply a form of skin pigmentation, and it doesn’t disrupt the skin’s texture.
The Healing Power Of Honey
We like to recommend honey because it comes with fewer side effects, and its been proven to work. Honey-soaked dressings are actually becoming a very popular type of wound dressing in hospitals because they help wounds heal faster, and with less infection, compared to traditional dressings.
Honey is antibacterial, and can kill nearly any kind of bacterium, including P. acnes . It also has anti-inflammation properties. This makes honey one of the best ways to prevent and get rid of acne scars.
We suggest applying a small amount of honey to any pimples or cysts before bed each night, and covering them with small pieces of tissue or Band-Aids. This will treat the pimples, promote healing, and prevent acne scars.
Read Also: Does The Nexplanon Cause Acne
Causes Of Hyperpigmentation Acne
This happens when the uppermost layer of the skin is damaged because of an injury to the skin, sun exposure, extreme temperature conditions or inflammation and you might get brown, black or dark shade spots on the skin.
Stress can trigger hyperpigmentation acne. Apart from stress, hormonal imbalance can cause hyperpigmentation acne too.
Other causes of hyperpigmentation in the skin can result when there is an increase in melanin production. Pigmented areas can also be caused by blood vessel inflammation and injury. The skin produces excess melanin for many reasons, including aging, damage or injury to the skin, hormonal surges, certain medications, and sun exposure.
The hyperpigmentation acne can last for some time and would continue to appear even after your acne has gone completely. This is because the colour pigments in your skin need time to fade away from the skin, it can take months for it to fade away completely. This is one of the main reasons why people with acne issues would carry scar marks even after their acne has cleared up.
How To Treat Hyperpigmentation Acne
No treatment can clear hyperpigmentation caused by acne overnight. In actuality, you have to treat your acne first to successfully tackle pigmentation. The good news is that with the right approach, these dark marks will fade and disappear with time.
Here are a few things you can do to speed up the healing process.
Read Also: Does Curology Work For Acne Scars
Ways To Get Rid Of Hyperpigmentation Caused By Acne
December 19, 2019 By Jacob Fox
- The inflammation that accompanies acne breakouts can increase melanin production in the skin, leading to the appearance of postinflammatory hyperpigmentation.
- Skin care products that reduce melanin production, increase cell turnover and ease inflammation can help to treat postinflammatory hyperpigmentation.
- Over-the-counter products containing hydroquinone, corticosteroids and retinol are effective treatments.
- Skin resurfacing procedures can address postinflammatory hyperpigmentation, however these procedures can also cause it to develop in patients with dark skin.
Hyperpigmentation is a condition characterized by the appearance of scattered patches of skin that are darker in color than the surrounding skin. It is caused by the clustering of excess melaninthe pigment that gives skin its colorin certain areas.
The form of hyperpigmentation that occurs following acne outbreaks is known as postinflammatory hyperpigmentation. Acne scars often form alongside this type of hyperpigmentation, but they are ultimately a separate skin concern with a distinct set of causes.
Postinflammatory hyperpigmentation , although not a serious condition, is a cosmetic concern that can take several years to fade, and in some cases may never resolve without treatment. Fortunately, a number of topical medications and professional procedures are available to reduce their appearance and even out skin tone.
Contents
How To Get Rid Of Acne Marks In All Skin Types
Acne scars are the dark spots sometimes left behind on the skin after the acne heals, so even when youve gotten rid of acne, you still arent always done dealing with it.
The over-production of pigment in acne prone skin works differently for different people, though. For instance, if you have mostly blackheads and whiteheads, you probably dont have many acne scars. However, if you have pimples or cysts, or if you have a dark complexion, you probably notice a greater tendency to develop acne scars.
Why do pimples cause more scarring? Also, why does acne scarring show up more on darker skin? Well answer all these questions and more in this article. Well also give you several tips and tricks on the treatment of acne scars and how to prevent them from appearing in the first place .
Read Also: Where Does Acne Come From
Freckles Can Be Cute But If You Have Dark Spots On Your Skin That You Don’t Want There Are Ways To Remove Them
If youre bothered by darks spots due to hyperpigmentation on your skin, one thing is clear: Today there are more options for erasing that harmless but irksome discoloration than ever before.
What exactly is hyperpigmentation? Its any patch of skin that looks darker than your natural skin tone due to overproduction of the brown pigment melanin. According to the American Academy of Dermatology , the most common causes of hyperpigmentation which can affect people of all skin tones in varying degrees are:
- Inflammation Skin trauma such as acne, eczema, bug bites, cuts, scrapes, even scratching or friction from, say, vigorous rubbing can set off inflammation. Inflammation, in turn, can send pigment-producing cells into high gear, leaving behind a dark spot after the injury has healed.
But If You Have To Pop A Pimple
Sometimes, a pimple develops an unsightly white or yellow head, or it becomes painful. If you choose to pop it, we suggest you do so carefully and responsibly. There are five simple steps for popping pimples: wash, lance, squeeze, wash, treat. Read our guide on How To Pop A Pimple Responsibly for the safest ways to do this without irritating the skin or causing acne scars.
If you cant resist, or find yourself picking at your skin unconsciously, its important to know how to heal acne scabs. Like acne itself, your best bet is honey . It will prevent bacteria from infecting the scab, and it should speed up the healing process.
Also Check: Does Greasy Food Cause Acne
Why Does Hyperpigmentation Occur After Acne
Hyperpigmentation acne marks form towards the end of the healing process or once the acne blemish heals.
Whiteheads and blackheads don’t ‘heal.’ Instead, the dead skin and the oil are eliminated, and the pore quickly returns to its normal state. Cysts and pimples, on the other hand, require some healing. This is where hyperpigmentation steps in.
One of the first steps in the healing process is to increase blood flow to the wound site. And acne, to some extent, fits the definition of a minor skin wound, so blood flow increases when acne forms.
The wound releases certain chemicals that travel through the bloodstream and begin the healing process but also cause inflammation. These chemicals stimulate the cells that produce the skin’s pigment.
Both researchers and dermatologists agree that inflammation plays a significant role in hyperpigmentation. But, there’s a lot more to study what causes hyperpigmentation acne.
As you read earlier, melanin produces pigment and melanin is produced by melanocytes. The longer a wound takes to heal, the longer the stimulation of melanocytes and more the release of melanin. This is how acne turns into hyperpigmentation acne marks.
One of the biggest culprits of post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation caused by acne is picking zits. The best post-acne hyperpigmentation treatment is to avoid it in the first place.
When Should You See A Doctor?
If you notice changes in an existing spot, you should have a dermatologist or physician examine it.
Best Ingredients For Dark Spots Treatments
Its important to know what ingredients are utilized by the most successful products for hyperpigmentation or dark spots. This will enable you to self assess that whether or not a particular product will be effective in fading your dark spots.
Hydroquinone
Hydroquinone based treatments have widely been used as an effective treatment for hyperpigmentation. You might be aware of the dark side of hydroquinone. But the truth is: its not always the case.
A clinical trial conducted by The Mount Sinoi School of Medicine, New York, USA has regarded hydroquinone as a safe and effective treatment for PIH:
A good approach is to use hydroquinone based products in small concentrations and under expert guidance.
Kojic Acid
Unlike hydroquinone kojic acid is an all-natural, relatively safe ingredient for treating hyperpigmentation. Its primarily used against age spots, fine lines, and skin brightening. But its been proven to be equally effective for fading dark spots left by acne.
Vitamin C
Vitamin C is a natural peeling agent. It helps rapid shedding of dead skin cells, and allows new cells to regenerate on your skin. That is why products containing Vitamin C can be very effective for reducing dark spots on your skin.
Hyaluronic Acid
Hyaluronic acid is naturally produced in our body. This essential compound is abundantly found in our eyes and joints. It is widely used in skin care for purposes like healing wounds, ulcers, burns, skin moisturizing, and even anti-ageing.
Is it safe?
You May Like: How To Get Rid Of Acne Or Pimples
Ask A Dermatologist About High
If topical solutions aren’t fixing the problem, you may want to talk to your dermatologist about more aggressive ways to banish discoloration, such as chemical peels, microdermabrasion, or dermabrasion, or, according to the International Association for Physicians in Aesthetic Medicine, a laser or a light-based procedure.
How To Get Rid Of Both Types Of Acne Scars Asap
Whether you have hyperpigmentation or acne scars, either way, it’s no fun. Hyperpigmentation, though, is generally a bit easier to treat. Dark spots typically fade over time on their own, but there are things you can do to speed up the process. Because hello, you want bright and glowy skin right now, not weeks from now.
PIH treatment options:Hyperpigmentation treatments include retinol, alpha-hydroxy acids, and LED light therapy. According to Dr. Allawh, one of the most common ways to treat dark spots is with vitamin-C containing products. “Vitamin C is a powerful antioxidant that is quintessential in one’s skincare regimen as it prevents sun damage, increases collagen production, brightens the skin and, most importantly, improves skin tone,” she says.
Case in point: Micropoint for Dark Spots. The mega-powerful post-blemish patch features 173 hyaluronic microneedles fully loaded with skin-brightening ingredients including vitamin C, niacinamide, and tranexamic acid that together smooth out uneven skin tone and texture. All you have to do is pop a patch on the dark spot two times per week once the pimpled has healed and voila! You’ll have glowing, even skin. Oh, and P.S. It also works on sunspots.
Recommended Reading: Why Do I Get Hormonal Acne On My Chin
Use A Body Wash That Contains Salicylic Acid To Reduce Your Acne
If frequently washing your body and clothes isn’t cutting down your acne, you can also look for a body wash with salicylic acid to help break down the dirt and debris.
Insider previously reported salicylic acid works by killing the bacteria that cause acne and reducing inflammation on the surface of the skin.
Top 10 Home Remedies For Hyperpigmentation
1. Rubbing Potato
Potatoes contain an enzyme called Catecholase, which is known to help lightening the skin tone. That is why potatoes are believed to work well against skin pigmentation or dark spots left by acne.
Method:
All you need to do is to cut a potato into slices. Now, rub it onto your affected areas. You need to repeat this remedy regularly to see noticeable results.
2. Apple Cider Vinegar Spot Treatment
Raw, organic apple cider vinegar contains excellent astringent and skin lightening properties. This is what makes this ACV spot treatment highly effective for reducing dark spots or hyperpigmentation on your skin.
Method:
Mix two tablespoons of ACV and water in a cup. Now, use a cotton swab to apply this mixture directly on your affected areas. Wait for 10-15 minutes. Now, rinse your face with lukewarm water.
3. Aloe Vera
How can you not call aloe vera for help when your skin is in trouble? Aloe vera is one of those rare herbs that contain tremendous skin-friendly properties. Particularly for post inflammatory hyperpigmentation, mucilaginous polysaccharides present in its gel can help shedding dead skin cells and promote skin rejuvenation.
Method:
4. Turmeric Mask
Turmeric has made to this list because of its excellent bleaching properties. Follow these simple steps to exploit the power of turmeric to reduce hyperpigmentation on your skin.
Method:
5. Avocado Paste
Method:
6. Lemon And Cucumber Combination
Method:
7. Cocoa Butter
Method:
8. Exfoliation With Papaya
Read Also: How Can I Clear My Back Acne
Skin Care Routine For Postinflammatory Hyperpigmentation
Since acne is a primary cause of PIH, a skin care routine built around the prevention and treatment of this condition should be first and foremost a routine suitable for acne-prone skin.
While regular cleansing is essential, it is also important to avoid the use of products that have the potential to cause irritation and inflammation, as this can also exacerbate PIH.
Choose a cleanser containing gentle, active ingredients such as hyaluronic acid. If you use toners or exfoliants, be sure to select products that do not contain astringents such as witch hazel. Avoid products containing fragrances and preservatives as well, as these can also cause irritation.
Water-based moisturizers are preferable for acne prone skin, but if you use an oil-based moisturizer, be sure to select one that is noncomedogenic to avoid clogging your pores. Comedogenic moisturizers increase your risk of experiencing breakouts, which can worsen PIH.
Topical creams containing ingredients with skin lightening properties, such as hydroquinone, retinol and vitamin C, can be worked into your skin care routine to address hyperpigmented areas. When using these products, be sure to follow any included instructions to ensure safety.
Lastly,, as sun exposure can exacerbate hyperpigmentation, be sure to apply a sunscreen with a sun protection factor of 30 or higher whenever you plan to spend time outdoors.
What Causes Hyperpigmentation
Hyperpigmentation happens when skin cells overproduce melanin, which is the substance that gives skin its color.
Melanin overproduction often occurs after the skin has been inflamed, which is why acne really sets off hyperpigmentation. Basically, popping a zit could trigger an inflammatory and immune response that signals your bod to produce more melanin. This means more inflammation and more pigmentation.
After the hyperpigmentation occurs, spending time in the sun may darken the spots even more .
In rarer cases, the hyperpigmentation occurs deeper in the skin and might look blue-gray. This hyperpigmentation is often permanent.
Docs still dont know why some hyperpigmentation is more intense than others, and theres little scientific research out there to know for sure.
Don’t Miss: Does Laser Hair Removal Help Acne
Types Of Acne Scarring
To help you identify which type of acne scar you might be dealing with, we also put together a quick at-a-glance view of common acne scars. While they all vary in appearance, Hartman highlighted these names are just descriptors for the different shapes of acne scars. Theyre all the same thing and just come about from different severities of acne breakouts and lesions, he said.
Acne Scar Treatment No: Chemical Peels
Whenever chemical peels are mentioned, an image of Samantha from Sex And The City turning up to Carries book launch party with red raw skin and a black veil immediately comes to mind. But, peels have come a long way since then and, thankfully, veils are no longer required.
The best update? You can now use them in your own bathroom. AHAs and BHAs have become a staple in most skin lovers routines because they tackle an array of issues. From whiteheads to blackheads, acids are a top problem solver if you choose the right one.
Glycolic acid is the most popular when it comes to AHAs. Its the most potent when it comes to exfoliating, which means its incredibly efficient but can be too strong for sensitive skin types.
Lactic acid actually comes from lactose in milk, rather than fruit acids like other AHAs which means its particularly effective when it comes to erasing signs of ageing.
When it comes to BHAs, salicylic acid is the most commonly used. Good news for sensitive skin sufferers, this one’s for you. It helps calm down redness and inflammation, which also makes it super useful when it comes to getting rid of any blemishes.
Don’t Miss: Does Vitamin D Help Acne
How To Treat Acne Hyperpigmentation
If you want to get rid of your hyperpigmentation from acne, treating it as soon as it onsets can accelerate the natural fading process. Without treatment, some hyperpigmented areas may heal on their own, but it could take up to 6 to 12 months.
Keep in mind that if your spots are blue or purple, theyre likely deeper in the skin and will be more difficult to treat. Because of the nature of pigment, treatments typically involve lightening the skin.
Word of warning: Always do a patch test on your wrist to see how your skin reacts, before putting anything on your face! And, consider chatting with your dermatologist about whats right for your skin type, some options will require a derm anyways.
