Post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation can serve as the remains of trauma to skin, skin infections, allergic reactions, medications reactions, burns and other injuries to the skin, according to DermNet NZ, a website from the New Zealand Dermatological Society. Post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation lesions vary in color, ranging from light brown to black. Because they are colored differently from the skin, they can be a cosmetic concern. Reducing or removing the appearance of post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation involves reducing inflammation and treating areas of highly pigmented cells.
Step 1
Apply a skin cream that contains alpha or beta hydroxy acids, according to the "Skin Therapy Letter." These mild acids derived from fruit help to exfoliate layers of dead, hyperpigmented skin cells, revealing new skin underneath. These should be applied on a daily basis in order to encourage cell turnover and may take weeks to months of applications to observe a noticeable difference.
Step 2
See your physician, who can prescribe a topical treatment that lightens hyperpigmented areas. Examples of active ingredients include hydroquinone, tretinoin and corticosteroids, according to "Skin Therapy Letter." These ingredients may be used individually or combined to create a cream that can reduce inflammation and reduce the amount of pigment in the hyperpigmented area.
Step 3
Undergo a glycolic acid peel to remove layers of hyperpigmented cells, according to From Your Doctor, a physician-reviewed health information website. A dermatologist or aesthetician applies this peel to the skin. The glycolic acid penetrates the skin, removing layers of dead skin cells, which can cause the lesions to become lighter in appearance.
Step 4
Camouflage the hyperpigmented area with a concealer that is close in color to your surrounding skin, according to Skinsight. Lightly dab the concealer onto the lesion and pat---don't rub---to blend. This can help to cover the hyperpigmented area as you treat it. If you are applying to the arms or legs, choose a waterproof concealer, which can help the concealer to stay on longer.
Tips and Warnings
- Post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation areas typically fade over a period of six to 12 months, according to DermNet NZ. While the lesion is healing, you should always apply sunscreen with a sun protection factor of 15 or higher to the affected area, which helps to prevent the area from becoming darker.
- Advances in laser treatments have made it possible to treat hyperpigmented areas---however, these treatments can darken lesions in some patients, according to DermNet NZ. If you are considering this treatment, be sure to discuss risks and benefits with your physician.
Things You'll Need
- Alpha or beta hydroxy acid cream
- Concealer
- Prescription topical cream
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