Proven 7 Ways to Combat Post-Acne Hyperpigmentation

Overview

Post-acne hyperpigmentation is a skin condition in which a dark patch forms after an acne or wound heals, and is more visible in deeper skin tones. This blog highlights the differences between acne scars and post-acne marks, further explaining the signs, causes and top treatments for hyperpigmentation. Additionally, read further in the blog to find tips for an effective hyperpigmentation-targeted skincare routine and tailored solutions for different skin tones.  

What is Post Acne Hyperpigmentation?

Post-acne hyperpigmentation, or commonly known as Post-Inflammatory Hyperpigmentation (PIH), is the darkening of the skin where an acne lesion or wound has healed. The post-acne discolouration results from excess melanin production, disguised as the body’s best attempt to combat inflammation. While any individual can develop the condition, this is more common in people with darker skin tones, as they naturally produce more melanin following an acne-triggering inflammation. However, these dark brown patches or spots in the skin are quite distinctive from scars from acne.  

Acne Scars Vs. Post Acne Hyperpigmentation

The term ‘acne scars’ is often used as a synonym for PIH (Post Inflammatory Hyperpigmentation) scars, however, they differ from each other. Post-acne hyperpigmentation is a skin condition that occurs when the acne has healed, leaving the skin there as a dark patch. These small dark patches in the location of the acne lesions are formed due to excess melanin production in the skin, resulting from acne-induced inflammation. Prevalent in people with darker skin tones, PIH fades over time. Additionally, PIH marks (and not ‘scars’) can switch colours between pink to red and brown to purplish-black. 

Contrarily, acne scars result from post-acne (nodules or cysts) breakout skin damage. In this case, the skin collagen is disrupted, leading the skin to appear indented, pitted, depressed or slightly raised on the skin’s surface. These scars of various sizes can gradually exaggerate the skin texture, making it look rough or bumpy. While PIH heals by itself, scars from acne require in-office treatments or strong topical treatments to fade away. It is important to understand here that scars cannot be cleared, but with proper care, they can become less noticeable.  

Over-the-counter (OTC) treatments for hyperpigmentation include brightening ingredients such as liquorice root extracts, mulberry extracts, kojic acid, niacinamide, vitamin  C, tranexamic acid and alpha arbutin. Exfoliating ingredients such as retinoids, and hydrating elements such as hyaluronic acid, peptides and vitamin E can gradually smooth the texture, making acne scars less prominent. Professional acne scar treatments such as microneedling, subcision, chemical peels, laser therapy and dermal fillers can help heal scars faster. 

What are the Signs of Post-Acne Hyperpigmentation?

Post-acne hyperpigmentation signs or PIH marks symbolise small discoloured patches on the skin. If, after an acne breakout, you notice red, purple-brownish or blackish patches on your skin, it can indicate that you have developed post-breakout hyperpigmentation. While it can affect people of different skin types and tones, it is more persistent and severe for individuals with tan to dusky complexions. That is because brown or dark skin tone has more melanin in their skin, increasing the chances of developing the skin condition, and affecting both men and women. Also, the size and shape of these marks generally mimic the original shape of the acne lesion. While most dark spots on the face occur on the skin’s surface or epidermis, certain hyperpigmentation post-acne lesions can occur deep in the dermis and appear bluish-grey, marking a spot permanently.

What are the Causes of Post-Acne Hyperpigmentation?

As the name of the condition suggests, these flat, darkened areas result when an acne lesion, wound or rash is healed. The inflammation around the area causes the deposition of excess melanin, the pigment that is responsible for discharging colour into the skin, hence leading to small areas of skin discolouration. Besides, popping or picking a pimple or rash can also increase the chances of PIH as it triggers inflammation. Some external causes of post-breakout pigmentation include sun exposure, razor bumps and insect bites.

What are the Top Treatments Available for Post-Acne Hyperpigmentation?

Post-acne hyperpigmentation treatments are recommended by a professional based on the severity of an individual’s condition. These treatments can range from application of OTC hyperpigmentation products to prescription creams, or even availing in-office procedures. Read below and know more about the exact treatment you need:

1. Active Acids in an OTC Product

Many OTC (Over the Counter) post-acne hyperpigmentation creams contain brightening agents like face acids, which function by exfoliating the upper skin layer. Shedding or exfoliation of skin causes new cells to replace the dead cells, leading to an even complexion and smoother skin texture. These creams are available at drugstores, beauty platforms both online and offline, containing potent ingredients like Alpha Hydroxy Acids (AHA), Kojic Acid and other lightening agents. Let’s take a look at the functioning of each active ingredient: 

Vitamin C: With its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, it reduces dark spots on face, brightens the skin, stimulates collagen production and protects against sun damage. 

Kojic Acid: Inhibits melanin production, hence brightens the skin, reduces post-acne marks and evens out the skin complexion.

Niacinamide: Controls excess oil, fades away acne hyperpigmentation marks, and addresses skin discolouration.

Azelaic Acid: Promotes cell turnover and reduces inflammation under the skin’s layer, thereby inhibiting melanin synthesis and reducing the appearance of post-acne dark spots.

Alpha Hydroxy Acids: AHAs, namely glycolic acid, lactic acid, and mandelic acid, help the skin exfoliate deeply, removing dead cells and revealing an illuminated and radiant skin tone. 

2. Retinoids

Retinoids, a derivative of Vitamin A, are small molecular compounds that target hyperpigmentation by penetrating as deep as the skin’s dermis layer. These creams are often prescribed by an expert for patients with moderate to severe conditions of acne and hyperpigmentation. It also reduces signs of ageing, reduces the appearance of visible skin texture, and overall promotes a healthy complexion. 

The retinoids available at a beauty store mostly have a lower concentration than prescription-based retinoids (tretinoin), implying that results can show up slowly. Moreover, this solution can irritate some skin types, hence requiring you to consult with a dermatologist before planning on using these. 

3. Chemical Peels

Chemical peels involve the use of face acids at stronger concentrations to manage hyperpigmentation or any related skin condition in a specific area of skin. It works by removing the epidermis, or the top layer of the skin, hence alleviating the appearance of hyperpigmentation. It also improves skin texture, provides hydration and enhances skin elasticity, giving you an unmatched youthful glow. 

These types of hyperpigmentation treatments for face are available OTC; however, trusting a professional in this case is beneficial. Availing an expert-grade chemical peel at a renowned dermatologist’s chamber ensures tailored treatment and a highly effective and safe procedure. However, you must understand that chemical peels can make your skin more sensitive to the sun’s rays, so don’t skip your sunscreen at all. 

4. Microdermabrasion

It is an in-office cosmetic procedure that exfoliates the outer layer of the skin, epidermis, gently to uncover a more vibrant and rejuvenated skin. During this process, a dermatologist swipes across the skin a handheld device with embedded tiny crystals or diamonds to get rid of dead cells. Multiple sessions of microdermabrasion help lighten post-acne marks, enhance skin elasticity and smoothens skin texture. Moreover, this treatment benefits people of every skin tone and even those with superficial scars.

5. Skin Resurfacing (Laser Peels)

Resurfacing involves the use of targeted light rays to fade away post-acne hyperpigmentation on the skin. With two types of laser treatments available, ablative lasers are more intense than non-ablative laser procedures, causing the removal of skin layers. On the other hand, non-ablative laser penetrates till the dermis, stimulating collagen production and enhancing skin firmness. 

Considering the strength of ablative procedures, they can lead to more side effects like swelling, itching and redness. However, in general, both types of resurfacing methods promote cell turnover in a way that it destroys certain skin elements to allow the new cells to grow back more toned and firm.

6. Dermabrasion

This involves epidermis removal, however, its effects penetrate deeper into the dermis. Here, an expert uses a rotating or a “special” device to resurface the skin, thereby removing the epidermis and revealing brighter and smoother skin beneath. This “sanding the skin” method or abrasive procedure also enhances the skin’s natural contour, unveiling a firmer skin texture.

It is a highly effective cosmetic method to remove dark spots on the face, working even more efficiently than microdermabrasion. Dermabrasion also works best for treating other skin irregularities like sun damage, age spots, acne scars, injury scars and chickenpox scars.

7. Intense Pulse Light Therapy (IPL)

This method targets skin issues like post-acne marks by using broad-spectrum light. Photo facial is a very common type of IPL therapy that addresses different skin issues and promotes a rejuvenated complexion by using polychromatic light. This procedure works excellently when an individual avails it over multiple sessions. Best for targeting hyperpigmentation, this excellently removes flat dark spots on the skin, further reducing the appearance of enlarged pores, wrinkles and spider veins. 

Super Important Tip: Photoprotection Creams

Post-acne pigmentation can become more pronounced with sun exposure. This makes it necessary to wear sunscreen. Choose a water-based, broad-spectrum aqua gel sunscreen that makes your experience of daily sunscreen application fun. 

Effective Skincare Routine for Post-Acne Hyperpigmentation

A targeted hyperpigmentation skincare routine can help comprehensively manage the skin condition while also promoting skin health and resilience. Follow a holistic, simple step-by-step skincare routine that not only clears up dark spots but also addresses the root cause of the condition, that is, acne vulgaris. Attain an unmatched blemish-free glow in just a few steps:

Step 1: Cleanse

Apply a gentle, brightening face wash twice a day to exfoliate your skin and remove all the debris and acne-causing germs under the skin, without disrupting the natural skin barrier function. The presence of powerful brightening ingredients like Vitamin C and turmeric extracts in a face wash can change your cleansing game, helping you attain a rejuvenated, brighter and happier complexion. Take a coin-sized amount on your palm and massage in small circular motions across your face and neck for effective cleansing.

Step 2: Target

Pat dry your face after cleansing and target all the nasty post-acne blemishes with a Kojic Acid serum, a potent hyperpigmentation treatment for your face. With the synergy of other brightening and anti-oxidant supporting ingredients like niacinamide, kojic acid and mulberry extracts, you can say goodbye to skin texture and discolouration in just 4 weeks of regular usage. Take 2-3 drops of the serum on your palm and use your fingertips to cover your face and neck with the hero product. 

Step 3: Hydrate

After letting the serum sit on your face for 5-10 minutes, it is time to lock in the moisture. An illuminating moisturiser enriched with Niacinamide, Hexylresorcinol, Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride and Ethyl Linoleate is just the fundamentally right way to address excess melanin production in the skin. It not only fades acne marks but also soothes inflammation, redness and blotchiness, making it perfect for every skin type. Take a generous amount and massage your face and neck in upward circular movements until absorbed.

Step 4: Protect

Complete your routine with a non-comedogenic broad-spectrum sun protection cream, because sun exposure can aggravate post-acne marks. An SPF 100+ is a game changer for those who spend long hours outside. Take 3 fingers' worth of sunscreen and cover your face, neck, ears and other exposed areas generously to shield against UV-induced hyperpigmentation.

How Does Post-Acne Hyperpigmentation Impact People?

The small dark patches on the skin can become a reason for someone’s smile to drop. While post-acne hyperpigmentation does not impact an individual’s physical health, their emotional well-being can be compromised, affecting their self-perception, self-confidence, quality of life and social interactions. For many patients of PIH, this condition can contribute to bitter feelings of self-consciousness, embarrassment and even social isolation. While acne already takes a toll on an individual’s self-esteem, acne marks can add to that psychological impact. This can make the person believe that people judge them based on the dark spots on their face, limiting their exposure to connect with people, step outside of their comfort zone and even make friends. 

Moreover, the long-term management of acne marks can be frustrating for some individuals, making them want to give up on their acne healing journey, hence reflecting emotional distress and psychological burden. This can also cause over-reliance on makeup products, which is often considered a concealing method for pigmentation. However, failing to appreciate oneself in bare skin can further aggravate one’s mental health. Coping with this emotional turmoil requires words of affirmation and emotional support from loved ones and professionals. 

Which Post-Acne Hyperpigmentation Treatments are Suitable for Different Skin Tones? 

The intensity and length of acne marks are mainly influenced by an individual’s skin tone. While a fair-skinned individual responds well to various pigmentation treatments, only a few procedures can be helpful for darker-skinned people, given that their body naturally has a greater melanin count. Treatments such as microdermabrasion and chemical peels are highly effective for medium skin tones. On the other hand, people with darker skin tones can benefit from OTC brightening creams containing active ingredients like kojic acid and glycolic acid. Other procedures like lower-strength chemical peels, microdermabrasion, and laser treatments (when availed over frequent sessions) can also show visible results. 

Special hack for any procedure to work magically is patience (we can’t emphasise enough)!

3 General Tips to Get the Best Skin Results for Post-acne Hyperpigmentation 

Considering these few things can help to speed up the treatment process, improving the quality of outcomes:

• Target the Root Cause: Before treating post-acne dark spots on face, understand what’s causing the acne - is it the stress, pollution, comedogenic beauty products or hormonal imbalance? Try incorporating a healthy and active lifestyle to keep your health on track, ensuring you engage in stress-relieving activities and consume a gut-friendly diet. Besides, treat your acne with a spot correcting salicylic acid serum for instant hyperpigmentation control. 

• Sunscreen is a MUST: Don’t skip your sunscreen at any cost if you are looking for that glassy, blemish-free skin. Apply it religiously in the morning, and reapply every 2-3 hours during the day to retain its sun protection efficacy. 

• Keep Your Skin Health in Check: Your skin can be irritated or inflamed while you’re just set on the treatment journey. During this purging phase, you may feel overwhelmed, and that is okay. Check for signs of irritation and connect with a professional immediately if it is persistent, as inflammation can further induce pigmentation.

Living with Post-Acne Hyperpigmentation

Managing post-acne hyperpigmentation over the long course of time and living with it can be challenging and sometimes overwhelming. But remember that the dark spots don’t define you. With a tailored treatment, a comprehensive skincare routine, patience, self-love and healthy surroundings, you can achieve clearer, happier skin. Focus on your progress and embrace the journey. Your worth goes beyond your skin, you can glow through it all! 

FAQs:

1. Is post acne hyperpigmentation permanent?

The permanency of post-acne hyperpigmentation depends on factors such as the individual’s skin colour, depth of hyperpigmentation and the severity of the original acne. While in most cases, PIH is not permanent, it fades away over time, and sometimes the duration can extend up to several months or years. Opting for topical treatments or in-office treatments can speed up the fading process. 

2. Does popping pimples make post-acne hyperpigmentation worse?

The skin produces excess melanin when you pop a pimple, worsening PIH spots. This is because popping a pimple causes redness and inflammation around the area, leading to the colour-generating protein to over-stimulate melanin production as its attempt to heal the area, hence increasing the darkness of the PIH spot. 

3. Can diet and lifestyle changes help reduce post-acne hyperpigmentation?

While topical hyperpigmentation treatments and surgical therapies significantly help to reduce PIH spots, leading a healthy lifestyle can work wonders. Consuming a diet rich in omega-3 fatty acids, green vegetables, and antioxidants helps reduce oxidative stress in the body, alleviating skin hyperpigmentation. Additionally, indulging in stress management activities like yoga or deep breathing exercises, and getting enough sleep every night improves skin health and contributes to the reduction of post-acne dark spots on the face.

4. Is post-acne hyperpigmentation more common in certain skin tones?

Yes, individuals with darker skin tones are more prone to hyperpigmentation marks from acne. This is because their skin cells naturally produce higher levels of melanin in the body, increasing the chances of inflammation and worsening the depth of PIH spots. 

5. How does sun exposure affect post-acne hyperpigmentation?

Even when acne-induced inflammation reduces, skin hyperpigmentation can increase due to sun exposure. Sun’s harmful UV rays stimulate melanin production, causing the existing dark spots to darken and form new hyperpigmentation spots. Essentially, you must apply sunscreen in the morning to protect your skin against UV-induced damage.

6. Can makeup make post-acne hyperpigmentation worse?

Makeup can conceal hyperpigmentation on the skin, boosting your self-esteem. However, non-comedogenic makeup products exacerbate the existing dark spots by clogging pores, triggering breakouts and increasing inflammation. 

7. Do natural remedies work for post-acne hyperpigmentation?

Opting for natural remedies as a treatment for PIH spots may sound convenient and practical, however, their efficacy can sometimes be superficial and take a longer time to show results. Naturally sourced liquorice and mulberry extracts in a radiance-restoration face serum, backed by kojic acid and niacinamide, are clinically proven to fade away dark spots in just 4 weeks. 

8. Can post-acne hyperpigmentation return after treatment?

Dark spots can return even after treatment because of factors such as sun exposure, frequent breakouts, and individual skin reactions. Hence, a doctor may recommend persistent application of hyperpigmentation products like a topical steroid, a dark spot-reducing face serum or retinoid. 

9. Are prescription treatments more effective than over-the-counter solutions for post-acne hyperpigmentation?

The efficacy of both treatment options depends on the severity of the skin condition. Severe or persistent post-acne pigmentation can be treated well with prescription treatments, while mild to moderate PIH can be managed effectively with over-the-counter solutions. Consistent use of a face serum containing the powerful concoction of kojic acid, niacinamide and mulberry extracts can significantly help fade PIH spots in just 4 weeks.