Acne and Post inflammatory Hyperpigmentation

Darkening of skin due to excessive pigments produced by melanocytes is called Hyperpigmentation. Inflammation of follicles and sebaceous glands is referred to as acne. Acne is symbolized in various forms such as blackheads, pimples, papules and pustules. Theses are called acne lesions. The infection (inflammation) may reach deeper. The deeper the infection, the harder it will be to treat Hyperpigmentation. Thus, darkening of the skin after pimples, papules, pustules has healed is termed as Post inflammatory Hyperpigmentation.

What causes Hyperpigmentation?
Lower surface (stratum basal) of epidermis is covered with melanocytes. Melanocytes are the cells that produce color pigment called melanin. It gives darkness to your skin. Darkness of the skin does not depend upon the number of melanocytes. Production of melanin by melanocytes is directly associated with darkness.

In case of pimples, papules and pustules, infection may spread to deep skin layer called dermis. Infected area produces more melanin than normal causing unusual darkness. The extra unusual darkness is called Hyperpigmentation.

Thus, infection of hair follicles and sebaceous glands are the real causes of Hyperpigmentation. In most cases, if acne is not severe, it does not leave Hyperpigmentation. Squeezing and popping the pimples also produce Hyperpigmentation. When sebum pops out the bump, the bump is called blackhead. Most people consider blackheads are dark due to dirt. It is absolutely wrong! It is due to overproduction of melanin around the infected area.

Sun exposure is a leading cause of acne and Hyperpigmentation. Melanocytes are activated by sun light (ultra violet rays) to produce excessive melanin. Avoid direct exposure to sun. Do not forget to wear sun mask before going outside.

How can you treat post inflammatory Hyperpigmentation? There are various methods including laser therapy, dermabrasion, oral medications to lower melanin and natural remedies both topical and oral such as vinegar. Let us learn about each option:
Laser therapy:
Although laser therapy is somewhat effective method for treating acne and post inflammatory Hyperpigmentation, it is not safe. It may aggravate pigmentation depending upon the type of skin you have. Positive results may not appear in a single session. It may take up to several weeks to appear visible results.
Microdermabrasion:
Microdermabrasion is a little safer then laser acne treatment. It is usually employed if Hyperpigmentation conjugates with scars. It may take around four weeks to show visible reduction in scaring and Hyperpigmentation.

Vinegar:
Vinegar is the effective natural exfoliating agent applied topically. It removes dirt, unclog hair follicles and reduce melanin. It is the safest and quickest treatment option for post inflammatory Hyperpigmentation.

Conclusion:
Post inflammatory Hyperpigmentation usually occurs after severe acne has healed. It may take years to disappear if acne is not properly treated immediately. Squeezing the acne spread infection up to dermis. The deeper the infection, the darker the pigmentation will be. Vinegar is the safest and most effective natural treatment for Hyperpigmentation.