Post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH) is a type of hyperpigmentation that causes skin discolouration in an area where acne has healed. This results from excess melanin (a natural pigment responsible for skin colour) produced in response to inflammation. PIH may affect any skin type, but may be more prevalent for individuals with medium to dark complexions. It can also occur in various areas of your body, especially your face.
Post-Inflammatory Hyperpigmentation Treatment in Singapore
What is Post-Inflammatory Hyperpigmentation?
What Causes Post-Inflammatory Hyperpigmentation?
PIH occurs typically due to inflammation that attempts to heal your skin after sustaining a wound or irritation. When the skin heals, melanin production increases in response to inflammation, which could lead to excess melanin. As a result, your skin may then appear as discoloured blemishes, sometimes showing up as tan, brown, dark brown, or even blue-grey tones. The more inflammation, the more significant the effects of PIH may appear.
PIH may occur after your skin recovers from an acne breakout, but other commonly reported causes include eczema, psoriasis, and skin infections. Certain skin procedures may also cause PIH, such as using tanning beds or chemical peels. While not a primary causal factor, constant sun exposure could aggravate PIH symptoms and cause further skin darkening in the affected patches, which could take longer to fade naturally.
Treatments for Post-Inflammatory Hyperpigmentation
PIH does fade over time, but it may take several months to disappear completely, though in some cases it may almost seem permanent. There are treatments available that can help manage PIH and improve your skin tone in the affected areas.
Acne Toning Laser
If you currently have acne and may be worried about PIH, the acne toning laser treatment can treat active acne and reduce the appearance of acne scars. The treatment may also help to minimise the effects of inflammation that could lead to PIH. Additionally, the laser may gradually improve skin texture and tone while promoting collagen production to reduce the likelihood of future breakouts.
PICO Hybrid Laser
The PICO Hybrid Laser uses picosecond laser technology that delivers ultra-short energy pulses to the skin to break down pigmentation into smaller particles. This breakdown makes it easier for your body to naturally remove the pigmentation. The laser provides precise treatment by carefully directing focused heat to the pigments while causing minimal harm to the surrounding tissue, which aims to lighten PIH’s dark pigmentation and improve uneven skin tone.
Microneedling Radiofrequency
This treatment combines microneedling techniques with radiofrequency (RF) energy, delivering targeted treatment through tiny needles that treat dark spots and uneven skin tone caused by melanin deposits. The RF energy supplies heat to break down these deposits and gradually improve skin tone. Microneedling RF stimulates the skin’s natural healing process to support new skin cell growth while regulating melanin levels to promote a more even skin tone.
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How to Prevent Post-Inflammatory Hyperpigmentation
If you have undergone treatments for PIH or are looking to minimise your risk of developing PIH, here are some handy care tips to help with long-term prevention and keep your skin safe.
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Why Choose JY Medical Aesthetics Clinic for Post-Inflammatory Hyperpigmentation Treatment
FAQ
No, PIH only causes discolouration to the skin due to the excess melanin production resulting from skin inflammation. It does not affect your skin’s overall health, nor does it cause any scarring. While the pigments can become trapped in the dermis due to severe inflammation, professional treatments may help to treat the condition over several sessions to gradually reduce pigmentation.
While exfoliating your skin has benefits, it may have minimal effect on PIH. There is also a risk of over-exfoliating, which may further irritate and exacerbate PIH symptoms. Speak to a qualified dermatologist for further advice on this.
Yes, with proper management and professional support, treatments can help alleviate acne scars and PIH, improving skin tone and reducing scarring.
During the initial consultation with our team, we will first evaluate your skin health to accurately assess your treatment needs. From there, we can formulate a personalised treatment plan, including the number of sessions, to help manage your PIH symptoms and gradually restore your skin’s condition.
AESTHETIC DOCTOR
Dr. Branden Seow
Dr. Branden Seow graduated from the National University of Singapore (NUS). He is fully accredited by the Singapore Medical Council’s Aesthetic Practice Oversight Committee. Before doing Aesthetic Medicine, he had experiences working in several medical disciplines like Internal Medicine, General Surgery, Orthopedic Surgery, Emergency Medicine, as well as Dermatology.
He found great fulfillment in helping patients regain confidence by addressing skin-related issues, as well as making patients look their best, their youngest and their most confident. Dr. Seow’s passion for aesthetic medicine stems from his natural affinity for hands-on work and a deep desire to improve his patients’ lives. Dr. Seow also believes that aesthetic treatments are not just about physical transformation but also about improving a person’s overall sense of well-being.
CONTACT OUTLET
Jean Yip Loft
307 New Bridge Rd, Jean Yip Loft #02-00, Singapore 088757
Phone: (65) 6797 9196
Hours:
Monday – Friday: 11:00am – 8:00pm
Saturday: 10:00am – 4:30pm
Sunday & PH: Closed
Saturday: 10:00am – 4:30pm
Sunday & PH: Closed
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