What Is PIH—and Why Won’t It Fade?

If you’ve ever had a breakout, bug bite, or rash leave behind a stubborn dark spot, you’ve dealt with post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH). Unlike melasma, PIH is triggered by inflammation or trauma—like acne or over-exfoliation—and shows up as flat brown, red, or purple spots that linger long after your skin has healed.

At my NYC clinic, I see this most in:

Clients with acne-prone skin
Fitzpatrick IV–VI skin tones (where pigment cells respond more aggressively)
People recovering from skin irritation or cosmetic procedures

The challenge? PIH is often treated too harshly. People go straight for exfoliants, acids, or high-strength brighteners, thinking faster results will follow. But more often than not, it only prolongs the issue.

What Your Skin Actually Needs to Clear PIH

Here’s what I always say: healing pigment takes strategy—not just strong actives.

The best approach starts with:

Reducing inflammation
Strengthening the skin barrier
Introducing pigment inhibitors gradually

It’s not glamorous, but it works—and it keeps the pigment from bouncing back.

That’s why the Face Reality Brighten-C Mask is such a smart choice when treating PIH. It helps you hit all three steps in one formula.

Why I Reach for Brighten-C Mask Again and Again

Let’s talk ingredients.

This mask isn’t just a feel-good product—it’s a strategic one. It targets pigmentation on multiple fronts, while reinforcing hydration and calm.

Key Ingredients That Work for PIH:

Vitamin C (L-Ascorbic Acid): One of the most research-backed brighteners. Helps fade existing pigment and protects against new formation.
Undecylenoyl Phenylalanine: A gentle melanin-inhibiting compound that prevents excess pigment from developing.
Nonapeptide-1: Targets tyrosinase, the enzyme that controls pigment production, helping fade dark marks without triggering irritation.
Diglucosyl Gallic Acid: Activated by your skin’s microbiome to reduce hyperpigmentation and redness.
Sodium Hyaluronate + Safflower Oil: Moisturizing ingredients that help repair and reinforce the skin’s barrier so it doesn’t overreact.
Rumex Extract: A plant-based pigment corrector that works similarly to hydroquinone, minus the risk of rebound pigmentation.

This combination allows us to take a gentle, layered approach to treating PIH—especially in skin that flares up easily.

Who Should Use This Mask

At my clinic, I recommend the Face Reality Brighten-C Mask to clients who:

Have red or brown post-acne marks
Are prone to inflammation or flaking
Want to treat pigmentation without triggering new breakouts
Are navigating recovery post-peel, microneedling, or other procedures
Prefer pregnancy-safe and acne-safe skincare

How I Use Brighten-C in Clinic Protocols

This mask isn’t just a standalone—it’s one of my favorite layering tools. I use it:

In soothing treatments after extractions
Between brightening peels to avoid overdoing it
Post-microneedling to calm and correct
Before LED or oxygen therapy for even better results

Clients often leave with skin that looks visibly calmer—and over time, we see a reduction in spots and rebound redness.

How to Use at Home for PIH

Using this mask consistently—without overdoing it—is key. Here’s how I usually recommend clients use it:

Frequency: 1–3x weekly
Application: Apply a thin, even layer to clean skin
Timing: Leave on for 10–15 minutes
Rinse: Gently remove with lukewarm water and soft towel
Follow with: Hydrating serum, barrier moisturizer

Avoid layering with exfoliants or retinoids on the same night. And always wear sunscreen daily—PIH worsens with UV exposure.

Client Feedback: Real Talk from the Treatment Room

“I’ve tried so many things for my acne marks—this was the first product that didn’t sting or break me out.”

“After three weeks, my skin is smoother and my hyperpigmentation is finally starting to fade.”

“This became my go-to every Sunday. My skin looks more even and feels less reactive.”

Gentle Doesn’t Mean Ineffective

I’ll say it again: with PIH, consistency beats intensity.

When you give your skin the tools to calm, protect, and correct—like what’s inside the Face Reality Brighten-C Mask—you create real progress that lasts.

If you’re tired of seeing the same dark spots every time you look in the mirror, let’s reset your approach.

Want Expert Eyes on Your Routine?

Treating pigmentation doesn’t have to be harsh—or lonely. At my clinic in NYC, I build custom pigment protocols based on your skin’s specific history, tone, and goals.

Book a virtual or in-person consultation to start your PIH recovery plan with guidance that works with your skin—not against it.

Because yes, you can fade those spots—and keep your skin calm while doing it.