Post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation

What is post-infammatory hyperpigmentation?

• It is a discoloration that is left on the skin after an underlying skin disease has healed.
• The underlying skin disease may be trauma, skin infection, eczema (dermatitis) or a drug reaction.
• In dark-skinned persons, the color tends to be more intense and persists for a longer period.
• The pigmentation tends to fade slowly with time.

Post-inflammatory Hyperpigmentation (following dermatitis)

How is post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation treated ?

• Usually, normal skin color will return slowly over a period of months.
• One should avoid further trauma to the area, e.g. frequent rubbing and sunlight exposure.
• In hyperpigmentation, bleaching agents such as those containing hydroquinone may be used. The latter is however not more rapidly effective than if no treatment is given. Creams containing derivatives of vitamin A are not recommended as they induce an inflammation which worsens the problem.

Source of information: here