What Is the Best Treatment for PIE
PIE stands for post-inflammatory erythema. It is red or pink marks left on the skin after acne or other inflammation heals. These marks come from damaged blood vessels under the skin. They are not scars but can last for months if not treated.
The best treatment depends on how bad the PIE is. For mild cases, start with simple steps at home. Use topical creams like azelaic acid, niacinamide, or vitamin C. These help calm redness and fade the marks over time. Always apply sunscreen every day. Sun makes PIE worse by darkening the spots. Pick a gentle moisturizer to keep skin healthy.
Prevent PIE by treating acne fast. Use the right acne products to cut down swelling early. Avoid picking at pimples. This stops new damage.
For stubborn PIE that does not go away, see a dermatologist. Professional treatments work best here. Vascular lasers are the top choice. Pulsed dye laser or KTP laser target the red blood vessels. They heat and close them without hurting nearby skin. You may need several sessions, spaced weeks apart. Intense pulsed light or IPL is another option. It covers larger areas and adjusts to hit red spots.
Microneedling can help too. A doctor uses a small device to poke the skin and boost healing. Combine it with lasers for better results.
Be patient. PIE often fades on its own in weeks or months. But treatments speed it up. Results vary by skin type and how long you have had it. Stick to the plan for the best outcome.
Sources
https://www.kins-clinic.com/blogs/post-inflammatory-erythema-from-acne-a-guide-to-causes-and-treatments
https://moawadskininstitute.com/post-inflammatory-erythema-cure/
