Pigmentary disorders have long been among the top concerns that cosmeceutical advancements in formulations and technology address. Among the most common pigmentary disorders are melasma (pregnancy mask), solar lentigines (sunspots), and post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH) – which remains the least discussed in textbooks and training resources.

All ethnicities, genders, and skin tones can experience the woes of hyperpigmentation, but it is arguably the most common and foremost significant concern for clients with higher Fitzpatrick classifications. Skin care professionals must have the wherewithal to answer the battery of questions, concerns, and inquiries made around treating post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation in all clients regardless of skin tone to achieve tangible and sustainable results.

TAKE NOTES

Post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation commonly involves hyperpigmentation scarring following acne lesions but not exclusively. Post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation can also occur after thermal insult or injury, bug bites, abrasions, inflammatory skin disorders, and viral illnesses such as chicken pox. 

C.R. Cooper is a connective, knowledgeable, and compassionate educator who has been a skin enthusiast for over 24 years. As the education manager and master educator for a renowned global institute of learning in the skin health industry, Cooper values organizational and individual industry standards, professional and personal brand integrity, but most importantly the inherent worth in every skin professional.