How I Fade Post-Inflammatory Hyperpigmentation (PIH) Gently and Effect

PIH is the discoloration that lingers after acne, inflammation, or irritation has healed. It’s especially common in skin of color, but it can affect anyone—especially if there’s been picking, rubbing, or a strong inflammatory response.

At my clinic, clients often confuse PIH with melasma or scarring, but here’s the key difference: PIH is pigment left behind by inflammation. It can fade on its own, but that process is slow—and without the right support, it can stick around for months or even years.

Common triggers for PIH include:

Picking or squeezing breakouts
Inflammatory acne
Harsh exfoliants or products
Sun exposure
Skin trauma (like burns or reactions)

Why GlowTone Corrective Serum Works for PIH

I reach for Face Reality GlowTone Corrective Serum when I need a brightener that’s safe for reactive and acne-prone skin. It’s lightweight, non-comedogenic, and loaded with pigment-fighting ingredients that won’t compromise the skin barrier.

Here’s what I love most about it:

1. Azelaic Acid

One of my favorite ingredients for PIH. Azelaic acid not only fades pigment, but it calms inflammation and helps prevent future breakouts. It’s a triple-action powerhouse—and very well tolerated.

2. Niacinamide

This form of vitamin B3 helps reduce discoloration, soothe redness, and strengthen the skin barrier. It’s especially helpful if the skin is oily, inflamed, or sensitized.

3. Tranexamic Acid

Although often associated with melasma, tranexamic acid is also excellent for calming pigment pathways triggered by inflammation. It’s safe for long-term use and works well when layered with other brighteners.

4. Alpha Arbutin + Licorice Root

These gentle tyrosinase inhibitors reduce melanin production and help fade existing discoloration. Perfect for clients who can’t tolerate stronger actives like hydroquinone.

5. Vitamin C Derivatives

This formula contains multiple stabilized forms of vitamin C, which brighten and protect without the irritation that often comes with L-ascorbic acid. It’s ideal for sensitive skin.

How I Recommend Clients Use It

For best results with PIH, I usually recommend clients:

Use the serum once daily, ideally in the morning
Apply to clean, dry skin before moisturizer and SPF
Avoid pairing it with strong exfoliants or retinoids in the same routine unless instructed

SPF is non-negotiable. No pigment-fading routine will work if UV exposure keeps triggering new melanin. I always pair this serum with a mineral or hybrid SPF during the day.

When to Reach for This Serum

In the clinic, I often recommend Face Reality GlowTone Corrective Serum to clients who:

Are dealing with residual dark marks from acne
Have sensitive or reactive skin
Want results without the risk of peeling or purging
Need a gentle routine while on retinoids or acne treatments

It’s also safe for clients with rosacea-prone skin who still want to address discoloration.

Real Results from Clients

“My PIH from old breakouts used to take forever to fade. This serum made a visible difference in about a month—and didn’t break me out.”

“It layers well with my acne routine and really helps brighten up the leftover marks. Love that it doesn’t sting or irritate.”

“I finally found something that works for my dark spots without drying me out or making my skin red. So glad I gave this a try.”

Fading PIH Is a Process—But It’s Possible

There’s no overnight fix for hyperpigmentation, but with the right support, your skin can absolutely recover. The key is consistency, barrier-friendly ingredients, and lots of sun protection.

If you’re dealing with stubborn pigment and want help building the right routine, let’s work together. Book a virtual or in-person consultation and we’ll create a plan tailored to your skin type, lifestyle, and goals.

How I Fade Post-Inflammatory Hyperpigmentation (PIH) Gently and Effectively