A Clinical Approach to Post-Inflammatory Hyperpigmentation (PIH): Why Repair-First Skincare Makes All the Difference

Post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH) shows up as brown, gray, or dark spots after inflammation, like acne, eczema, or even over-aggressive exfoliation. Unlike post-inflammatory erythema (PIE), which is red and vascular, PIH is pigment-based—and that makes it harder to fade.

Common causes include:

• Acne breakouts

• Bug bites or skin injuries

• Picking at pimples

• Excessive sun exposure during healing

• Heat or friction on the skin (like masks or waxing)

Why PIH Can Linger

PIH tends to be more persistent in melanin-rich skin, but it can affect all skin tones. One big reason it lasts? The melanin that was released during inflammation gets trapped in the upper layers of the skin. And without consistent care, it can take months—sometimes longer—to fade on its own.

My Clinical Strategy for Treating PIH

PIH is one of the top reasons clients come to my clinic. Many people feel like they’ve “cleared” their acne, but their skin still doesn’t look clear. My approach to PIH is rooted in patience, barrier respect, and regenerative ingredients that target the cause—not just the surface.

Here’s what works:

• Interrupt melanin overproduction with brightening agents that calm the pigment cycle

• Speed up cell renewal without over-exfoliating or irritating the skin

• Support skin structure and hydration to improve clarity and even tone

Plated Intense Serum fits beautifully into this approach because it works on skin recovery at the cellular level.

How Plated Intense Serum Targets PIH from Within

This high-performance serum uses exosomes and human platelet extract—technologies often reserved for post-procedure recovery. For PIH, this means you’re giving your skin powerful regenerative signals that help normalize pigment production while supporting renewal and repair.

Ingredient Focus for PIH

1. Exosomes + Human Platelet Extract

These deliver anti-inflammatory messengers and growth factors that encourage skin renewal, improve pigment regulation, and help recondition skin tone from the inside out.

2. Hyaluronic Acid, Panthenol, Glycerin

These humectants keep skin hydrated, reducing the visibility of dark marks and improving skin turnover in a non-irritating way.

3. Caprylyl Glycol, 1,2-Hexanediol

Gentle conditioners that help maintain barrier health while allowing brightening agents to work without irritation. They also soothe the skin to reduce post-inflammatory damage.

4. Hydrolyzed Gelatin, Arginine, Silanetriol

These firm and retexturize the skin’s surface, helping PIH marks appear more diffused and less sharp over time.

Who This Works Best For

I recommend Plated Intense Serum to:

• Clients with dark marks after acne or waxing

• People who tan easily or have Fitzpatrick IV-VI skin types

• Those who can’t tolerate strong acids or retinoids

• Anyone who wants to even out their tone while rebuilding their skin

What I see in the clinic:

• Gradual lightening of marks over 4–6 weeks

• Less new pigment forming after flare-ups

• Better tolerance for other treatments in the long term

• Clients feeling more confident with less makeup

A Sustainable Routine for PIH Recovery

AM:

1. Gentle cleanser

2. Plated Intense Serum – 1 pump on slightly damp skin

3. Barrier-repair moisturizer

4. Broad-spectrum mineral sunscreen (always)

PM:

1. Low-foam or oil-free cleanser

2. Plated Intense Serum again

3. Barrier-supportive moisturizer or hydrating mask

Weekly: Add an enzyme-based exfoliant to help with cell renewal, but avoid scrubs or anything abrasive.

What to Avoid:

• High-dose vitamin C serums that sting

• Friction (towels, picking, masks)

• Harsh scrubs or frequent peels

• Forgetting SPF—this slows your results

Real Client Journeys

Client A: Hormonal Acne + PIH This client had finally calmed her hormonal breakouts, but dark spots stuck around her cheeks and chin. She was already using sunscreen and niacinamide but wasn’t seeing a change. We added Plated Intense Serum nightly and simplified the rest of her routine. By her third visit, her tone was visibly more even and she needed less concealer.

Client B: PIH from Ingrown Hairs and Picking Even after the irritation subsided, this client was left with clusters of discoloration on the jawline. We used Plated Intense Serum twice daily for barrier restoration and pigment support. Over two months, the spots began to lift, and his skin tone looked more consistent with fewer flare-ups.

Final Thoughts

PIH takes time—but time isn’t the only answer. With the right skin-strengthening tools, you can fade dark marks faster and prevent new ones from forming. Plated Intense Serum gives skin the regenerative boost it needs to recover, reset, and radiate.

If you’re dealing with post-acne marks, sun spots, or other forms of PIH, let’s build a personalized plan together. Book a virtual or in-person consultation to start your journey to even, luminous skin.