Acne often leaves discolored spots, either red or brown. Even after the skin is free of inflammation, the marks can persist for weeks or months.
What are post-inflammatory spots?
After each inflammation, the skin tries to regenerate. However, during this process, damage often occurs. overproduction of pigment or damage to blood vessels, which manifests as redness or dark spots. We collectively call these manifestations post-inflammatory changes.
We most often encounter two types:
🔴 Post-inflammatory erythema (PIE)
Red to pink spots that appear after acne, especially in fair skin types. They are not pigment, but dilated blood vessels under the skin.
💡 Helps: azelaic acid, mandelic acid, SPF, LED therapy or laser.
🟤 Post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH)
Dark brown spots that appear after inflammation, more common in darker skin types. They are caused by increased melanin production.
🌞 Helps: topical retinoids, azelaic acid, glycolic acid, arbutin, kojic acid, SPF, vitamin C.
Why is it disappearing so slowly?
The renewal of skin structures is naturally slow. The depth of inflammation, genetics and sun exposure all play a role. Sometimes the skin may need 3-6 months for the spots to disappear.
⚠️ Factors slowing healing: squeezing pimples, insufficient sun protection, irritating products.