Post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH) is the dark spot or discoloration that remains after inflammation—typically from acne—has healed. It’s not a scar, but it can last weeks or even months if left untreated.

Common causes of PIH include:

  • Picking or squeezing breakouts

  • Sun exposure on healing skin

  • Inflammatory acne lesions

  • Hormonal fluctuations

  • Using harsh skincare that increases irritation

It’s especially common in medium to deeper skin tones, where melanin production responds more aggressively to inflammation.

How I Approach PIH in the Clinic

I always say: preventing PIH starts with calming the breakout—not just fading the mark afterward. If we can minimize the severity and duration of inflammation, we reduce the chance of discoloration.

At my NYC clinic, my PIH strategy includes:

  • Reducing inflammation quickly

  • Clearing pores to prevent recurring breakouts

  • Supporting the skin barrier

  • Protecting the skin from further irritation or UV damage

That’s where Face Reality Sal-C Toner fits in beautifully.

Why I Recommend Face Reality Sal-C Toner for Clients Struggling with PIH

1. Reduces Breakout Frequency: Salicylic Acid + Willow Bark

Salicylic acid helps clear existing acne and prevent future breakouts that lead to more PIH. As an oil-soluble acid, it penetrates deep into the pores to unclog and calm.

  • Helps stop the cycle of inflamed acne

  • Reduces the intensity of breakouts

  • Prevents new PIH from forming

Willow bark extract offers similar benefits with added anti-inflammatory support.

2. Gently Brightens: Niacinamide + Vitamin C

Niacinamide (vitamin B3) helps brighten the appearance of uneven tone and fade existing dark marks. Vitamin C (ascorbic acid) works alongside to help even skin tone and boost antioxidant protection.

  • Fades PIH over time

  • Reduces visible redness post-breakout

  • Supports skin healing

3. Enhances Cell Turnover: Gluconolactone

This PHA (polyhydroxy acid) is perfect for sensitive or acne-prone skin. It gently exfoliates, helping fade discoloration without triggering further inflammation.

  • Encourages gradual fading of marks

  • Improves skin texture

  • Gentle enough for compromised skin

4. Calms + Soothes: Panthenol + Glycerin

Panthenol (provitamin B5) hydrates and soothes irritated skin. Glycerin helps maintain skin moisture, which is key for fading dark marks faster.

  • Prevents dryness from active ingredients

  • Helps maintain a healthy barrier

How to Use Face Reality Sal-C Toner for Best Results

I guide my PIH-prone clients to use it like this:

  • Apply once daily after cleansing

  • Press gently into skin using clean hands or a soft cotton pad

  • Follow with barrier-supporting serum and non-comedogenic moisturizer

  • Use sunscreen daily—this is non-negotiable if you’re targeting PIH

If your skin is new to acids or reactive, start with 2–3 nights per week, building up as tolerated.

How Long Does It Take to See Results?

Fading PIH is a marathon, not a sprint. You might see:

  • Smoother skin and reduced congestion within 1–2 weeks

  • Less visible pigmentation after 4–6 weeks

  • Significant fading with consistent use over 8–12 weeks

Consistency is everything—and keeping breakouts under control is step one.

Non-Product Tips to Support PIH Healing

  • Never pick or pop pimples—this increases pigment risk

  • Wear SPF daily—sun exposure deepens dark marks

  • Stay hydrated and eat whole foods—less inflammation overall

  • Use lukewarm water—hot water worsens redness and inflammation

  • Sleep on a clean pillowcase—reduce bacteria that could trigger breakouts

Not Sure If You’re Dealing With PIH or Something Else?

Sometimes clients confuse post-inflammatory erythema (PIE), true scarring, or melasma with PIH. That’s where a pro diagnosis matters.

Book a consultation with me, and we’ll figure out what’s happening with your skin and how to move forward. Whether you’re in NYC or online, I’ll help you develop a targeted plan that suits your skin’s needs.

Face Reality Sal-C Toner is a powerful first step toward brighter, more even-toned skin—and breaking the cycle of breakout-to-dark-mark once and for all.

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