INTRODUCTION
Post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH) is a common acquired condition resulting from an overproduction of melanin or abnormal deposition of melanin in the epidermis or dermis following inflammation.1 PIH can appear following several types of inciting inflammatory factors, such as acne, atopic dermatitis, burns, wounds, insect bites, allergic reactions, or psoriasis.2 PIH can be difficult to treat and impact patients' self-esteem.3 This condition can improve spontaneously, but usually takes months to years to fade, creating a need for long-term treatment.1 PIH is particularly prominent in the skin of color, greatly affecting quality of life and causing profound psychosocial distress.1,3,4 One study found that 54% of patients felt embarrassment due to their hyperpigmentation with 22% experiencing a severe negative impact on their quality of life.5 Another study found 51% of participants endorsing their PIH as more bothersome than the initial cause.6
The estimated prevalence of PIH among African Americans is reported to be as high as 9.99%.7 PIH is one of the leading causes for cosmetic consultation, and accounts for the high demand for effective skin lightening therapies.8 In 2022, the pigmentation disorders treatment market was estimated to be valued at 6.8 billion USD and is growing in demand.9 The current treatments for PIH include topical lightening agents such as hydroquinone combined with a retinoid and steroid.1 However, hydroquinone is associated with significant side effects such as skin lightening and permanent discoloration to the skin and ochronosis, limiting the ability to provide effective and well-tolerated treatment.10 Steroids are also ineffective for long-term use due to the side effect of skin atrophy.10 There is a lack of strong therapeutic options for treating PIH that are well tolerated, safe, effective, and accessible. In this study, we investigated the safety and efficacy of a comprehensive skincare regimen in the treatment of PIH among skin of color patients.
The estimated prevalence of PIH among African Americans is reported to be as high as 9.99%.7 PIH is one of the leading causes for cosmetic consultation, and accounts for the high demand for effective skin lightening therapies.8 In 2022, the pigmentation disorders treatment market was estimated to be valued at 6.8 billion USD and is growing in demand.9 The current treatments for PIH include topical lightening agents such as hydroquinone combined with a retinoid and steroid.1 However, hydroquinone is associated with significant side effects such as skin lightening and permanent discoloration to the skin and ochronosis, limiting the ability to provide effective and well-tolerated treatment.10 Steroids are also ineffective for long-term use due to the side effect of skin atrophy.10 There is a lack of strong therapeutic options for treating PIH that are well tolerated, safe, effective, and accessible. In this study, we investigated the safety and efficacy of a comprehensive skincare regimen in the treatment of PIH among skin of color patients.
