A Review of Postinflammatory Hyperpigmentation

Postinflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH) is an acquired form of hypermelanosis that occurs in response to inflammation or injury to the skin. It is the final, common pathway for a variety of inflammatory dermatoses (eg, atopic dermatitis, acne vulgaris, lichen planus, psoriasis), infectious processes, trauma, or therapeutic interventions. Although PIH can occur in any skin tone, it is more common and particularly problematic in darker individuals with Fitzpatrick skin types IV to VI. While many therapeutic interventions exist, the optimal treatment for PIH remains elusive.