PIE vs. PIH: Understanding the Difference + How to Treat Them
Let’s learn to understand our skin!
If you've ever dealt with breakouts, you've likely noticed that the marks they leave behind don’t always look the same. Some are red and flat, while others are darker and seem to linger for what feels like forever. These marks are commonly known as PIE (Post-Inflammatory Erythema) and PIH (Post-Inflammatory Hyperpigmentation!
♡ While they’re both post-acne concerns, they’re caused by different processes in the skin and require different treatment approaches.
What is PIE?
PIE, or Post-Inflammatory Erythema, appears as pink, red, or purplish marks—most commonly in lighter skin tones. It’s not a pigmentation issue but rather the result of damaged or dilated blood vessels from inflammation (often from picking, squeezing, or recurring breakouts)
PIE Fast Facts:
Flat, red/pink discoloration
Caused by inflammation damaging tiny blood vessels
More common in fair or sensitive skin
Often fades with time but can be supported with the proper skincare
What is PIH?
PIH, or Post-Inflammatory Hyperpigmentation, shows up as brown or dark spots. Once a pimple heals, the skin thickens, and melanin production kicks in! Creating those stubborn dark spots. It’s not just acne that causes PIH, but any injury or trauma to the skin (like a bug bite, scratch, or burn) can lead to this kind of discoloration.
PIH Fast Facts:
Flat, brown/dark spots
Caused by increased melanin production after inflammation or trauma
More common in medium to deeper skin tones
Can take months (or longer) to fade without targeted treatment
Once the pimple heals, it causes the skin to thicken, and the melanin gains color, causing the dark spots. Not only pimples, but any kind of injury that damages the tissue can leave behind scars.
♡ These marks may lighten over timebut how long that takes varies from person to person.
PIE + REDNESS RELIEF -
HydraRemedy Gel Serum
A soothing, hydrating serum designed to support your skin barrier and calm visible redness. Ideal for post-breakout sensitivity, PIE, and irritated or dehydrated skin.
✨ Why I love it:
Soothing and hydrating without clogging pores
Strengthens the skin barrier and microbiome
Leaves skin plumper, smoother, and visibly calmer
100% acne-safe for all skin types
For PIH + Dark Spots-
GlowTone Corrective Serum
A brightening serum featuring the proprietary Hexa-Bright Complex, formulated to reduce the appearance of post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation, sun damage, and uneven tone.
🌟 Why I love it:
Fades dark spots and discoloration over time
Evens skin tone without irritation
Safe for all skin tones and acne-prone skin
Lightweight, layered easily into any routine
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