How Is PIE Different From Hyperpigmentation
When acne heals, it often leaves marks on the skin. Two common types are PIE and hyperpigmentation, specifically post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation or PIH. They look different and form in different ways, so knowing the difference helps with treatment.
PIE stands for post-inflammatory erythema. It shows up as flat red or pink marks. These come from damaged tiny blood vessels under the skin after inflammation from acne or injury. The redness happens because capillaries dilate or break during healing. PIE is more common in people with lighter skin tones.[1][2][5]
Hyperpigmentation, or PIH, appears as flat brown, tan, or dark spots. It happens when skin cells make too much melanin, the pigment that colors skin, as a response to inflammation. This excess pigment stays after the acne clears. PIH is more noticeable in people with medium to darker skin tones.[1][2][4][5]
The main difference is the cause and color. PIE is about blood vessel issues and looks red or pink. PIH is about extra melanin and looks brown or black. Both can happen after the same acne spot, but they affect skin in separate ways. PIE does not involve melanin overproduction, while PIH does.[1][2][3]
Other factors like sun exposure can make both worse by triggering more inflammation or pigment. PIE might also come from cuts, dermatitis, or hormones, not just acne. PIH often follows deeper acne like cysts because of stronger inflammation.[1][2]
Treatments differ too. For PIE, ingredients that calm redness and support blood vessels work well, like vitamin C, niacinamide, or azelaic acid. For PIH, focus on fading pigment with things like glycolic acid or hydroquinone. Both improve over time with consistent care, often fading in months.[1][2]
Sources
https://worldofasaya.com/blogs/acne/post-acne-hyperpigmentation-your-complete-guide
https://banish.com/blogs/article/pie-vs-pih-how-to-tell-the-difference
https://www.theksclinic.com/hyperpigmentation
https://www.skinboutiqueonline.com/blogs/news/hyperpigmentation-types-explained
https://amvital.com/blogs/blog/pie-vs-pih-dark-skin-hyperpigmentation-guide
