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.
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