The dark spots from acne, what we refer to as the "ashes after the fire," can be annoying. Your skin is finally clear, but you still need to use cover-up to keep your skin looking great. The good news is that there are numerous options for removing these dark spots from acne, which are referred to in dermatology as
post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation.
Dr. Schweiger explains that, "Post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation, or the dark spots from acne, forms in response to the inflammation of the acne bumps. The increased inflammation of the pimple stimulates overproduction of the pigmented cells, called melanin. Once the inflammation of acne resolves, you are left with only the areas of excess melanin production; these areas appear as darker brown-ish spots on the skin."
Here are a few options for removing these unwanted dark spots:
- Topical acne medications, such as Tazorac (tazarotene) and Finacea (azeleic acid), help to lighten excess pigmentation as they treat your acne.
- Topical lightening creams, such as EnlightenME (hydroquinone 5%), block an enzyme necessary for the formation of pigmentation. EnlightenME can be effective on its own for mild cases of post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation, and may be used in combination with other treatments for moderate to severe pigmentation.
- Chemical peels can help to even out post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation. A series of in-office peels can help significantly in evening out the tone of your skin.
- Fraxel laser treatments actually resurface the skin, to get rid of the pigmented cells and replace them with healthy, even skin. A series of Fraxel treatments will also improve the appearance of pitted acne scars, which we often see in combination with post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation.
During your visit to the Clear Clinic, we will review all of the options for treatment of the dark spots from acne and make a recommendation for the best treatments for your skin.
