Fade Dark Marks Fast: Using Gentle Cleansers for Post-Inflammatory Hyp

Post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation, or PIH, is the flat, dark discoloration that lingers after inflammation—especially acne—has healed. It’s not true scarring, but it can last for months if not managed properly. At the clinic, it’s one of the most common concerns I treat.

What Causes PIH:

Acne and breakouts
Picking or popping pimples
Inflammation and injury to the skin
Sun exposure on compromised skin
Over-exfoliation or irritation from products

PIH is especially common in clients with medium to deep skin tones because their melanocytes (pigment-producing cells) are more reactive. But anyone can develop it—and it takes time and patience to fade.

Non-Product Tips to Manage PIH

Before we even talk product, these foundational practices are key:

Avoid picking: Let blemishes heal naturally—manipulating them increases inflammation and pigment.
Use SPF daily: Sun exposure worsens hyperpigmentation. SPF is your number one defense.
Don’t over-exfoliate: Harsh scrubs or acids can trigger more inflammation and delay healing.
Get enough rest: Poor sleep increases systemic inflammation, which can make pigmentation worse.
Hydrate and support your barrier: Skin heals faster when it's calm and moisturized.

Why I Recommend Mandelic Wash for Post-Breakout Pigment

When my clients ask for something to help fade dark marks—but they’re prone to breakouts or sensitivity—this is the cleanser I turn to first. The Face Reality Mandelic Face and Body Wash is a staple in my protocols for treating PIH.

1. Mandelic Acid: A Gentle AHA That Fades Without Flare-Ups

Unlike glycolic acid, mandelic acid has a larger molecular size, which means it penetrates more slowly and causes less irritation. This makes it ideal for:

Fading discoloration from healed breakouts
Supporting regular cell turnover
Helping prevent new clogged pores

Mandelic acid is also naturally antibacterial, which helps calm acne-prone skin while it gently exfoliates.

2. Antioxidant Support for Brighter Skin

Green tea and grape seed extracts: Help neutralize free radicals and soothe inflammation
Kiwi extract: Naturally high in vitamin C to support a more even tone

These antioxidants are crucial because oxidative stress from pollution or sun exposure can keep PIH from fading properly.

3. Barrier-Boosting Hydration

Glycerin and honey: Humectants that draw moisture into the skin
Propanediol: Helps soften and calm

A damaged skin barrier slows healing, so keeping skin hydrated is key to fading hyperpigmentation faster.

Usage Tips for Targeting PIH

If you're dealing with stubborn post-acne marks, here’s how I recommend using the Face Reality Mandelic Face and Body Wash:

Start slow: Use once daily at night to start, especially if you’re new to acids
Massage for 30 seconds: Give the actives time to penetrate
Follow with SPF in the morning: This step is non-negotiable!
Alternate with a gentle cleanser: If your skin starts to feel tight or dry, balance with a hydrating formula

Who It’s Ideal For

This cleanser is best for:

Clients healing from non-inflamed acne with lingering dark marks
Melanin-rich skin tones that need gentle, non-irritating pigment control
Anyone wanting to even out their tone without overdoing it
Clients prone to body acne marks on the chest, shoulders, or back

What Sets Face Reality’s Formula Apart

Most exfoliating cleansers either focus too much on clearing acne (and end up being harsh) or on fading pigment (but ignore acne altogether). The Face Reality Mandelic Face and Body Wash hits both concerns gently and effectively.

It’s also:

Safe for face and body
Acne-safe and won’t clog pores
Designed for professional use but easy to incorporate into home care

I love it for its versatility—it works whether you’re maintaining clear skin or still healing from breakouts.

PIH Takes Time—But You’re Not Stuck With It

Post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation doesn’t disappear overnight. But with a consistent, supportive routine, your skin can absolutely recover its clarity and glow.

The Face Reality Mandelic Face and Body Wash is a strategic first step. With ingredients that exfoliate, calm, hydrate, and brighten—all without inflaming your skin further—it’s an easy but impactful upgrade to your cleansing routine.

Let’s Personalize Your Routine

If you’re dealing with PIH, acne, or both, you don’t need to figure it out alone. I’ve helped hundreds of clients rebuild their routines and regain skin confidence.

Book a virtual or in-person consultation, and let’s work together to clear your breakouts, fade those dark marks, and bring your skin back to life—on your terms, with ingredients and products that actually work.

Fade Dark Marks Fast: Using Gentle Cleansers for Post-Inflammatory Hyperpigmentation (PIH)