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Postinflammatory Hyperpigmentation: Epidemiology, Clinical Presentation, Pathogenesis and Treatment

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Abstract

Postinflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH) is a reactive hypermelanosis that develops following cutaneous inflammation. Common causes of PIH include intrinsic skin conditions (e.g., acne and eczema) as well as external insults to the skin, such as burn injuries and dermatologic procedures. PIH more commonly occurs in individuals with darker skin, for whom it is often a source of significant psychological distress. Several therapeutic modalities are available for the treatment of PIH, including topical agents, chemical peels, and energy-based devices. We review the epidemiology, clinical presentation, pathogenesis, and treatment of PIH.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Mount Sinai St. Luke’s and West, 1090 Amsterdam Avenue, Suite 11B, New York, NY, 10025, USA

    Bridget P. Kaufman & Andrew F. Alexis

  2. New York Medical College, 40 Sunshine Cottage Road, Valhalla, NY, 10595, USA

    Taulun Aman

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  1. Bridget P. Kaufman
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  2. Taulun Aman
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Dr. Kaufman and Ms. Aman have no conflicts of interest or financial disclosures to report. Dr. Alexis reports the following conflicts of interest and financial disclosures: grant to institution for clinical trial (Allergan) and honoraria for advisory board/consulting (Galderma and Allergan).

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Kaufman, B.P., Aman, T. & Alexis, A.F. Postinflammatory Hyperpigmentation: Epidemiology, Clinical Presentation, Pathogenesis and Treatment. Am J Clin Dermatol 19, 489–503 (2018). https://doi.org/10.1007/s40257-017-0333-6

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