In people with darker skin, an acute rash can be followed by chronic pigment that is slow to resolve, as seen here. Darkening of the skin in an area that was previously inflamed is common. This image displays post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (dark flat marks left after a skin problem has healed). Dark skin spots often follow acne lesions in black patients. This image displays deep skin darkening following a skin rash. This image displays a patient that was infected by both chickenpox (the small circles) and a staph infection (the large circles). This image displays darker color (pigment) in areas that had acne previously, which takes longer to heal in people with darker skin. Post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation may look almost purple-brown in darker-skinned individuals and take months to fade on the lower legs.
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Post-Inflammatory Hyperpigmentation  Information for adults

Picture of Post-Inflammatory Hyperpigmentation: In people with darker skin, an acute rash can be followed by chronic pigment that is slow to resolve, as seen here. Divider line
In people with darker skin, an acute rash can be followed by chronic pigment that is slow to resolve, as seen here.
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Self-Care Guidelines
Most post-inflammatory pigment fades with time, although it takes many months, and some areas never fade (particularly on the legs).

  • Since sunlight may cause further darkening, protect yourself from sun exposure with clothing, a hat, and sunscreen (SPF 15 or more).
  • You may be able to use makeup to cover the affected areas. Waterproof makeup is available for use on arms and legs.
  • If you have an underlying skin disorder such as acne, seek medical care.
  • While bleaching creams are available over the counter (0.5–2% hydroquinone in the US and stronger, but possibly dangerous, concentrations overseas), weaker forms have limited effectiveness, and there is some concern about their safety. In fact, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is considering removing them from the market. If you do try them, stop using them if there is no improvement after 4–6 months of use. The stronger foreign products may worsen pigmentation with overuse or cause permanent pigment loss, so DO NOT USE THEM.
  • Cocoa butter and aloe are common home remedies, but they have not been proven to be effective.
  • Cortisone creams should not be used unless recommended by your physician, as they thin the skin with prolonged use.
When to Seek Medical Care
If the discoloration is distressing to you or you have a chronic skin condition leading to the darkening, seek medical advice. Also see your doctor if you notice a general change in skin color without any obvious explanation.
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Last Modified: 22 Dec 2008
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