Dark marks after acne (post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation): treatment
Brown marks left after spots, eczema or injury: causes and dermatologist treatment for PIH, especially in darker skin.
Post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH) is darkening left behind after skin inflammation such as acne, eczema or injury. It is flat — unlike scarring — and more common in medium to dark skin.
Controlling the cause, strict sun protection, prescription lightening agents and gentle peels speed fading.
Signs and symptoms
- Flat brown or grey marks where spots were
- Marks that fade slowly over months
Common causes
- Acne and picking
- Eczema and rashes
- Burns, waxing or aggressive treatments
- Sun exposure darkens marks further
When to see a doctor
See a dermatologist if marks persist, or to treat the underlying acne that keeps creating new ones.
Red flags — seek prompt care
- A dark spot that is changing, raised or bleeding — have it examined
How it is diagnosed
Clinical examination distinguishes PIH from melasma and scarring.
Which doctor to see
Dr. Abdullah Anis
Specialist Dermatologist & Venereologist
Medical dermatology, venereology, injectables and filler complications.
Treatment options
Controlling the cause, strict sun protection, prescription lightening agents and gentle peels speed fading.
What happens if it is left untreated?
Marks usually fade slowly, but sun exposure and ongoing acne keep creating and darkening them.
Can it come back?
New marks form whenever new inflammation occurs.
Prevention
- Treat acne early
- Avoid picking
- Daily sunscreen
Questions patients ask
Prepared by the Manhal Medical Center editorial team · Updated: 2026-09-23 · Treating specialist: Dr. Abdullah Anis
This page is general information and does not replace a consultation. Suitability, risks and results vary between patients.
Will PIH fade on its own?
Often yes, over months, but treatment and sunscreen speed it up considerably.
Which doctor treats dark marks after acne (pih) in Dubai?
At Manhal Medical Center in Al Safa 1, dark marks after acne (pih) is assessed by Dr. Abdullah Anis (Specialist Dermatologist & Venereologist).
How is dark marks after acne (pih) diagnosed?
Clinical examination distinguishes PIH from melasma and scarring.
When should I see a doctor about dark marks after acne (pih)?
See a dermatologist if marks persist, or to treat the underlying acne that keeps creating new ones.
What treatments are available for dark marks after acne (pih)?
Depending on the cause: Pigmentation & Melasma Treatment, Chemical Peels, Acne Treatment. Controlling the cause, strict sun protection, prescription lightening agents and gentle peels speed fading.
Can dark marks after acne (pih) come back?
New marks form whenever new inflammation occurs.
Can dark marks after acne (pih) be prevented?
Treat acne early; Avoid picking; Daily sunscreen.
Where is Manhal Medical Center?
We are at Building 101, Street 22A, Al Safa 1, Dubai, UAE, between Al Wasl Road and Sheikh Zayed Road, with easy access from Jumeirah, City Walk, Downtown and Business Bay.
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Building 101, Street 22A, Al Safa 1, Dubai, UAE