Post-acne pigmentation

Post-acne pigmentation refers to discoloration that remains after an acne lesion has healed, without permanent structural damage to the skin. It commonly presents as post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH), which appears as brown or darkened spots, or post-inflammatory erythema (PIE), which appears as red or pink marks. These changes occur due to increased melanin production or vascular dilation triggered by inflammation. Unlike acne scars, post-acne pigmentation is primarily a color issue rather than a textural defect. With appropriate treatment and sun protection, pigmentation typically improves gradually over time.

Post-acne pigmentation is a color change, not a structural scar
It includes PIH (brown) and PIE (red) types
Inflammation stimulates melanin production or vascular response
Most cases improve with time and targeted therapy
Sun protection is essential to prevent worsening pigmentation