what is the best treatment for post inflammatory hyperpigmentation

Healthline.com

Though there are many therapeutic strategies for hyperpigmentary conditions such as melasma that are described in the literature, fewer studies focus on PIH. This article aims to provide a comprehensive literature review of therapies specifically used to treat PIH, such as topical combinations, chemical peels, and lasers.

Top10homeremedies.com

The treatment of postinflammatory hyperpigmentation should be started early to help hasten its resolution and begins with management of the initial inflammatory condition. First-line therapy typically consists of topical depigmenting agents in addition to photoprotection including a …

Allremedies.com

Physical treatments for postinflammatory hyperpigmentation Chemical peels, laser treatments and intense pulsed light therapies (IPL) may be helpful for epidermal pigmentation, but physical treatments may also aggravate it by injuring the epidermis. These treatments are not effective in dermal hypermelanosis. References

Curejoy.com

Jul 25, 2021 · Rich in vitamin C helps reduce hyperpigmentation, helps reduce acne, help provides a healthier, smoother appearance to your skin. Aloe Vera Leaf Extract: has soothing and antioxidant properties and hydrates your skin.

What treatments are effective for hyperpigmentation?

Sep 14, 2021 · As we said, hyperpigmentation can be an especially pesky problem for deeper complexions, which is why we love that this treatment is specially formulated to meet the needs of darker skin. It’s a bi-phase serum (so give it a good shake before using) that relies on a trio of proven brighteners: niacinamide, hexylresorcinol, and a retinoid. Satisfied users love the …

How to fade post inflammatory hyperpigmentation naturally?

Feb 13, 2020 · One of the best ways to combat hyperpigmentation is to use topical antioxidants like vitamin C, says Caroline Robinson, a dermatologist and founder of Tone Dermatology, a practice that specializes...

Is PRP effective for post inflammation erythema?

Feb 28, 2022 · Sunscreen Vitamin C Serum BHA and AHA Cleansers Spot Treatments Acne Patches Brightening Serum Retinol or Retinoid Antioxidant-Rich Hydrators Hydroquinone Microdermabrasion Salicylic Acid Peel...

How to treat post inflammatory erythema?

How long does it take for post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation to fade?

The good news is PIH will eventually go away, even if left untreated. Since these spots are caused by melanin production, the affected skin will shed like all skin cells. On its own, PIH will generally resolve within two years. With intervention, patients no longer have to wait.Jan 23, 2019

How do you fix post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation?

What Are the Treatments for Post-Inflammatory Hyperpigmentation?Skin lighteners such as hydroquinone and azelaic acid to help reduce melanin production.Retinoids and steroids to increase skin cell turnover.Chemical peels like salicylic or glycolic acid to remove skin cells with extra melanin.Nov 2, 2021

What is the fastest way to fade post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation?

According to Ayodele, a chemical peel is also a great way to fade post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation, as "it will help the skin to exfoliate quickly and fade the discolouration." Alpha-hydroxy-acids such as glycolic, lactic and mandelic acid work by dissolving the 'glue' that holds dead skin cells together, revealing ...Sep 24, 2021

Can post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation be cured?

PIH usually heals over time without treatment, but it can take up to a couple of years. Some spots may never fade. Treatments include OTC creams, prescription medications, and in-office procedures.Mar 1, 2022

What can make post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation worse?

Ultraviolet light exposure and certain medications (such as tetracycline antibiotics, antimalarial drugs and chemotherapeutic agents) can make the condition worse.

Is post-inflammatory hypopigmentation permanent?

Most cases of postinflammatory hypopigmentation improve spontaneously within weeks or months if the primary cause is ceased; however, it can be permanent if there is complete destruction of melanocytes.

Does retinol help with hyperpigmentation?

Retinol, a form of vitamin A, “is a multitasker with improvement in hyperpigmentation, acne and texture while also increasing collagen production to minimize fine lines and wrinkles,” says Love.Jul 24, 2020

Is vitamin C serum good for pigmentation?

5. It helps fade hyperpigmentation. Since it impedes melanin production, vitamin C can actually fade hyperpigmentation. Hyperpigmentation — including sunspots, age spots, and melasma — occurs when melanin is overproduced in certain areas of the skin.

Why is my hyperpigmentation not going away?

Some cases of hyperpigmentation may never go away completely. If hyperpigmentation is caused by injury, then as the skin heals the discoloration will lessen as melanin is absorbed into the tissue surrounding the injury.Sep 22, 2021

What do dermatologists recommend for hyperpigmentation?

Dermatologists consider prescription-strength hydroquinone, alone or combined with other lighteners, to be the gold standard for fading dark spots because it slows the production of pigment.Dec 3, 2019

What happens when you stop using hydroquinone cream?

What happens when you stop using hydroquinone cream? Hydroquinone may prove beneficial for a maximum of five to six months. Once you stop using it, you may experience irritation on the affected parts of your body. This may lead to inflammation.

Can I use alpha arbutin and retinol together?

Can I use niacinamide with alpha arbutin and retinol? Yes, you can, using all three of these ingredients will ensure the complexion remains healthy and balanced, with the common drying side effects of retinol being counteracted by niacinamide hydrating the skin.Nov 12, 2021

What is post inflammatory hyperpigmentation?

Post inflammatory hyperpigmentation is a sub-type of hyperpigmentation that occurs when melanin overproduction is triggered by inflammation. Post inflammatory hyperpigmentation is especially common in individuals with skin of color, and is one of the most common reasons they seek out a dermatologist. Post inflammatory hyperpigmentation is separate ...

How long does it take for hyperpigmentation to fade?

Post inflammatory hyperpigmentation may be either temporary or permanent. In some cases, hyperpigmentation will fade on its own, though it may take months or years depending on the severity of the patch. However, some patches of hyperpigmentation are permanent if left untreated.

What is the treatment for PIH?

Post inflammatory hyperpigmentation is more common in individuals with darker skin. Topical treatments for PIH include creams and chemical peels. Laser therapy and natural treatments are sometimes used to treat PIH, but more research is needed to provide their efficacy.

How to reduce dark spots on face?

They can also reduce the darkness and size of the patches. Wear sunscreen. Sun exposure to UV rays stimulates the production of melanin, which can lead to hyperpigmentation or worsen existing patches. Whenever you’re going outside, wear sunscreen with at least SPF 30 for sun protection.

Can chemical peels cause hyperpigmentation?

However, chemical peels do increase your skin’s sensitivity for a short period directly after the peel, which makes your skin more prone to sunburn and inflammation. If the wrong ingredients are used, or ingredients with too high a concentration, chemical peels can actually cause hyperpigmentation. Laser Treatments.

Does acne fade with time?

While some pigmentation may fade with time, over-the-counter creams and chemical peels can help lighten their appearance more quickly.

Is hyperpigmentation permanent?

However, some patches of hyperpigmentation are permanent if left untreated. In general, the higher the contrast between the path and your normal skin color, the smaller the chances that it will fade and the longer it will take if it does. Post inflammatory Hyperpigmentation Treatments.

What is the best treatment for hyperpigmentation?

The gold standard for the treatment of hyperpigmentation (including PIH) involves a combination of retinoids, hydroquinone, and steroids. However, there are a number of over the counter options that are available. These include: 1 Retinol 2 Azelaic Acid 3 Niacinamide 4 Vitamin C 5 Kojic Acid 6 Alpha-Arbutin 7 Liquorice Extract 8 Soy Proteins 9 Resveratrol 10 Zinc 11 Hydroxy Acids (AHAs/BHAs)

What is the gold standard for hyperpigmentation?

As already mentioned, the ‘gold standard’ of hyperpigmentation treatment includes the use of retinoids alongside hydroquinone and steroids.

How long does it take for PIH to fade?

PIH Treatment. While post inflammatory hyperpigmentation can eventually resolve on its own, it can take months to years to fade when its limited to the epidermis and can be permanent if present in the deeper dermis [1]. However, there are a number of treatment options that can help improve the appearance of PIH.

What is NAG in a syringe?

N-Acetyl Glucosamine (NAG) is an amino-monosaccharide that inhibits tyrosinase glycosylation and thus melanin production. 2% NAG can reduce the appearance of hyperpigmentation within 8-weeks of use, and these reductions are greater when 2% NAG is combined with 4% niacinamide [30].

Is azelaic acid better than hydroquinone?

In other studies, 20% azelaic acid was as effective as [21]or better than [22]2% hydroquinone at reducing hyperpigmentation. These studies all evaluated azelaic acid at prescription strength, but it is available over the counter at lower concentrations that will offer similar results with less irritation.

Does vitamin C help with PIH?

Research has demonstrated that vitamin C can also inhibit tyrosinase, thereby decreasing melanin production and reducing PIH [26]. In fact, one study identified that 5% ascorbic acid was as effective as topical therapy with 4% hydroquinone at reducing hyperpigmentation [27].

Why does PIH occur?

PIH occurs as a result of injury to the skin or inflammation causing an increase in the production of pigment. Although it is not fully known why this reaction occurs, it appears that inflammatory mediators and ROS released during the inflammatory process activates melanocytes and increases the production of melanin and the transfer of pigment to surrounding skin cells.

What is the best treatment for epidermal hyperpigmentation?

Topical therapy is typically effective for epidermal postinflammatory hyperpigmentation; however, certain procedures, such as chemical peeling and laser therapy, may help treat recalcitrant hyperpigmentation. It is also important to use caution with all of the above treatments to prevent irritation and worsening of postinflammatory ...

What is postinflammatory hyperpigmentation?

Postinflammatory hyperpigmentation is a common sequelae of inflammatory dermatoses that tends to affect darker skinned patients with greater frequency and severity. Epidemiological studies show that dyschromias, including postinflammatory hyperpigmentation, are among the most common reasons darker racial/ethnic groups seek the care ...

What is the difference between tazarotene and adapalene?

Third-generation retinoids, adapalene and tazarotene, are synthetic topical agents that are also effective in the treatment of PIH. Adapalene is formulated in creams or gels in 0.1 to 0.3% concentrations; whereas, formulations of tazarotene include 0.05 and 0.1% creams or gels.

Does PIH affect skin color?

PIH can have a significant psychosocial impact on skin-of-color patients (Fitzpatrick skin types IV through VI), as these pigmentary changes can occur with greater frequency and severity in these populations1and oftentimes be more obvious in darker skin.

What is postinflammatory hyperpigmentation?

Postinflammatory pigmentation is temporary pigmentation that follows injury (eg, a thermal burn) or inflammatory disorder of the skin (eg, dermatitis, infection ). It is mostly observed in darker skin types (see ethnic dermatology ). Postinflammatory pigmentation is also called acquired melanosis.

Who gets postinflammatory pigmentation?

Postinflammatory hyperpigmentation can occur in anyone but is more common in darker-skinned individuals, in whom the colour tends to be more intense and persist for a longer period than in lighter skin colours.

What causes postinflammatory hyperpigmentation?

Postinflammatory hyperpigmentation follows damage to the epidermis and/or dermis with deposition of melanin within the keratinocytes (skin cells) and/or dermis.

What are the clinical features of postinflammatory hyperpigmentation?

Postinflammatory hyperpigmented patches are located at the site of the original disease after it has healed. The lesions range from light brown to black in colour. The patches may become darker if exposed to sunlight ( UV rays).

How is postinflammatory hyperpigmentation diagnosed?

Postinflammatory hyperpigmentation is diagnosed by taking a careful history and examining the skin. Dermal melanosis gives a characteristic hue to the skin colour (grey-purple-brown).

What is the treatment for postinflammatory hyperpigmentation?

If pigmentation affects an exposed site, daily application of SPF 50+ broad-spectrum sunscreen is important to minimise darkening caused by UVR. Cosmetic camouflage can be used.

What is the best oil for hyperpigmentation?

Sunflower Oil: a naturally derived plant oil that is super moisturizing, made up of 60% linoleic acid, and rich in antioxidant vitamin E. Vitamin C: helps lighten hyperpigmentation by inhibiting the enzyme tyrosinase, combating free radical damage, and boosting collagen production.

What is the best treatment for dark spots?

Bearberry Extract: Believed to be the world’s best plant-based dark spot treatment. As a botanical resource, bearberry extract contains antioxidants and anti-inflammatory agents that protect against free radical damage and UV rays and prevent new melanin formation in existing dark spots.

Why do dark spots appear on skin?

The reason is that darker skin contains a higher amount of melanin (more color) in the skin cells and a tendency to overproduce additional melanin in response to external factors. While hyperpigmentation is totally treatable, people with darker skin need to take extra caution to safely and effectively treat dark spots.

What is the term for dark spots on the face?

Hyperpigmentation is a condition where patches of skin become darker than the normal surrounding skin—i.e., the fancy term for “dark spots.” This discoloration results from an accumulation of excess melanin—a naturally occurring pigment in the body that gives the eyes, hair, and skin their (beautiful array variety) color.

What are sun spots?

Sun damage: Sunspots, small and flat, can range in color from light to dark brown. They tend to develop on parts of the skin exposed to the most sunlight—such as the face, chest, neck, and hands—that receive more sun exposure, stimulating melanin production.

Is hydroquinone safe for dark skin?

Hydroquinone is the only FDA-approved product for fading dark spots on the market, and its effectiveness is solidly supported through multiple scientific studies. In concentrations of up to 2%, hydroquinone is safe for all skin types, including dark skin, black skin, and sensitive skin. Higher levels may still be effective ...

What is the name of the discoloration of the face?

Melasma: Melasma is a type of skin discoloration caused by changes in hormone levels often associated with pregnancy or the use of birth control pills. Melasma typically develops on larger areas face—the cheeks, sides of the face, forehead, and above the lips.

What is the best vitamin for spot fading?

In the world of spot-fading ingredients, vitamin C is one of the best options, not only for its skin brightening abilities but because it has the added benefit of acting as an antioxidant and stimulating collagen production, too. Sign us up.

Who is Melanie Rud?

Melanie Rud is a freelance beauty writer, editor, and expert living in Chicago. Our editors independently research, test, and recommend the best products; you can learn more about our review process here . We may receive commissions on purchases made from our chosen links.

Does vitamin C help with dark spots?

Simple and straightforward, this gets the job done using a potent form of vitamin C that goes to work both fading existing dark spots and impeding the production of new ones . It also has white birch extract to hydrate and peony extract for antioxidant protection, making it a one-stop-shop for all of your skincare needs. Use it in the morning before sunscreen, or at night under a thicker moisturizer.

Does prickly pear extract help with redness?

One of the best-sellers from this cult-favorite brand, this relies on mega-gentle lactic acid to help fade spots and gently exfoliate the dead cells that impede your glow. Licorice and lemongrass also promote a more even complexion, while prickly pear extract soothes redness, making this a choice pick for those whose skin is easily irritated. Also nice: It works in just three minutes.

Is hydroquinone safe?

Hydroquinone is effective, but has some drawbacks; it can’t be used for long periods of time and there are some concerns about its safety. This formula, one of the best-selling brightening products out there, recently got a revamp to eliminate HQ (as it’s called). Instead, it relies on a skin-brightening peptide, vitamin C, and a niacinamide complex. Bonus points for the inclusion of light-reflecting pearls, which instantly make skin look brighter.

Does glycolic acid help with discoloration?

Glycolic acid exfoliates and breaks down discolored skin cells , and also has the added benefit of stimulating collagen production over time. And let’s not forget to mention that it costs less than ten dollars. These Are the 15 Best Toners Based on Your Skin Type and Concerns.

Is retinol good for sensitive skin?

The hard truth of the matter is that many of the best brightening ingredients—hydroquinone, vitamin C, retinol —can be too irritating for sensitive skin. That’s why we appreciate that this serum relies on niacinamide instead, a great spot fading ingredient that just also happens to hydrate and even reduce redness and inflammation. And true to the brand’s sensitive skin-friendly vibes, it’s generally super gentle and fragrance-free.

How to treat hyperpigmentation?

One of the best ways to combat hyperpigmentation is to use topical antioxidants like vitamin C , says Caroline Robinson, a dermatologist and founder of Tone Dermatology, a practice that specializes in ethnic skin dermatology. “It’s a potent antioxidant that can help to block tyrosinase (the key enzyme in excess pigment production), and therefore has a correcting and brightening effect.” Her top recommendation is the Revision C+ Correcting Complex 30, a lightweight, nonirritating serum that has a potent form of vitamin C along with vitamin E and other antioxidants to target hyperpigmentation from multiple angles. Clay recommends it too, noting that this formulation also protects skin from ultraviolet rays and high-energy visible light (the technical term for the lights emanating from our screens).

What causes hyperpigmentation on the face?

Hyperpigmentation can be caused by pretty much anything — whether it’s a festering pimple, a bad bout of eczema, the sun, genetics, hormones, or just a cut. It’s a skin reaction that can be triggered by inflammation of any kind, and leaves an often challenging-to-get-rid-of dark mark behind. One of the biggest hyperpigmentation triggers is UV light, which stimulates melanin production. Every dermatologist we spoke to stressed the importance of protecting the skin from UV light with sunscreen, whether you’re treating spots or trying to prevent new ones altogether. Tinted sunscreens are particularly helpful for this thanks to iron oxides, which protects the skin from visible light — a known trigger of resistant forms of hyperpigmentation. Asides from sunscreen, most recommended products formulated with pigment-production-blocking ingredients, namely antioxidants like vitamin C (it helps to block tyrosinase, an important enzyme in pigment production), and prescription topicals like retinoids, hydroquinone, and Cyspera.

What is Robinson's PCA?

Robinson also likes PCA Intensive Brightening Treatment, which is specifically formulated for discoloration . “This nighttime serum has a blend of 0.5 percent pure retinol, resveratrol, hexylresorcinol, and niacinamide,” she says, “which together wards off pigment-triggering inflammation and directly address discoloration while you sleep.”

What is Scott's favorite treatment?

If you’re both sensitive and dry, Scott recommends lactic acid, a gentle acid that moisturizes while it brightens and exfoliates. She likes Good Genes by Sunday Riley for this reason, an AHA treatment that uses purified lactic acid along with licorice and lemongrass to brighten the skin.

Does tinted sunscreen help with hyperpigmentation?

Tinted sunscreens are particularly helpful for this thanks to iron oxides, which protects the skin from visible light — a known trigger of resistant forms of hyperpigmentation. Asides from sunscreen, most recommended products formulated with pigment-production-blocking ingredients, namely antioxidants like vitamin C (it helps to block tyrosinase, ...

How to avoid pigmentation?

The easiest way to avoid pigmentation issues? Keep them at bay with sun protection. If you already have spots, a sunscreen will keep them from darkening. "If you are not using sunscreen every day all year long, you are wasting your time on other products," says New Jersey-based dermatologist Jeanine Downie, M.D., director of Image Dermatology.

What is the best treatment for acne?

Salicylic Acid Peel. Another in-office procedure that can vastly speed up treatments, a salicylic acid peel is ideal for acne sufferers. The salicylic acid is typically applied in the 20-30 percent range.

What is a nightly patchology?

Basically, you stick a circular patch over a dark spot; this will send microcurrents down into your skin. The microcurrents diminish discoloration with the help of retinol, peptides, and niacinamides, which are all fused into the cloth sticker. There are lots of options on the market for acne patches that will de-clog your pores and fade your marks overtime.

Does retinol help with pigmentation?

OTC Retinol or Retinoid. Of course this do-everything ingredient also helps with pigmentation. " Not only does it speed up cell turnover, it penetrates really deep into the skin and interferes with pigment production, " says Palm, meaning it can treat dark spots that aren't just on the surface level.

Does microdermabrasion buff skin?

As long as the microdermabrasion is gentle enough (it's important not to be too irritating says Palm), this is a great option to buff away the top layer of the skin, revealing the new (and less pigmented) layers underneath.

Is Q switch laser safe for tattoos?

So dermatologists have turned to the Q-Switch Laser, which is actually originally used to remove tattoos. "It uses low heat and energy, so it won't make pigmentation or inflammation worse ," says Palm. And, because it's a longer wavelength, it's safe for all skin tones too.

Can you use a cleanser with lactic acid?

But it can also help other skin types by gently exfoliating the surface and unclogging pores, which could be causing your unwanted acne. Unless you have really dry and sensitive skin, consider using a cleanser with either, or both, to help fade marks.