Post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation in Gangnam, Seoul
Brown marks left behind by acne, eczema or irritation fade faster with gentle, barrier-safe treatment — calming inflammation first, then clearing pigment step by step.
What is post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH)?
Post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH) is flat brown, grey or purplish discoloration that appears after skin inflammation or injury such as acne, eczema, insect bites, burns or aggressive procedures. Inflammation stimulates melanocytes to overproduce melanin. PIH is treated with low-energy laser toning, mild brightening peels, pigment-inhibiting skincare and strict sun protection. PIH often fades on its own, but treatment shortens the months it can take.
PIH is especially common in Asian and darker skin. Because irritation creates more PIH, the key is a gentle, consistent approach rather than strong peels or high-energy lasers.
- Session time
- About 20–40 min
- Downtime
- None to mild redness
- Sessions
- Usually 3–5
- Interval
- Every 2–4 weeks
- Fading time
- About 4–8 weeks per stage
- Main tools
- Laser toning, gentle peels
- Performed by
- MIN Clinic physicians
- Location
- Cheongdam, Gangnam
Common causes of PIH
Treating the trigger is as important as treating the mark.
Acne
The most common cause of facial marks.
Eczema and dermatitis
Itch and rubbing leave darker patches.
Injury or burns
Cuts, scratches and heat damage.
Procedures
Waxing, harsh peels or overly strong lasers.
A good fit if you…
- have flat brown or purple marks after acne
- have sensitive skin prone to darkening
- want marks to fade faster than on their own
- are ready to use sunscreen daily
Consider alternatives if you…
- still have active, inflamed acne — treat that first with acne care
- have indented scars — see acne scar removal
- have red rather than brown marks — see redness treatment
- have a current sunburn or tan
Before & after acne and mark care
Drag the handle to compare. Photographed at MIN Clinic with the patient’s consent.
Before
After
- Treatment
- Acne and post-acne mark treatment
- Concern
- Acne, post-inflammatory marks
- Downtime
- Minimal
- Clinic
- MIN Clinic, Cheongdam-dong
Individual results vary. Photos are shown with patient consent and are not a guarantee of outcome. A doctor consultation is required before treatment.
View more before & afterCalm first, then clear
PIH responds poorly to aggressive treatment. We first make sure inflammation is controlled, then clear pigment gradually while strengthening the skin barrier.
Control inflammation
Settle active acne or dermatitis first.
Barrier repair
Moisturisers and SPF to prevent new marks.
How your visit works
Most international guests complete the visit in one half-day, timed around their flight.
Message us
Send photos and your goals on WhatsApp. We reply in English with options and an estimated price.
Skin analysis
An AI 3D skin analysis and a one-to-one consultation with your physician.
Treatment
PIH treatment is performed by your MIN Clinic physician, with numbing or comfort care where needed.
Aftercare
English aftercare notes, follow-up on WhatsApp and tax-free benefits with a foreign passport.
Slight pinkness that settles quickly.
Marks begin to soften and lighten.
Most shallow marks look much lighter.
More even tone; continue SPF.
How much does PIH treatment cost in Seoul?
PIH treatment in Seoul typically costs ₩90,000 to ₩200,000 per session, and most patients need 3–5 sessions. MIN Clinic confirms your plan and price at consultation.
PIH treatment
VAT 10% added for non-exempt patients · prices may vary with promotions · tax-free benefits with a foreign passport. Your exact price is confirmed at consultation.
See current offers
Seasonal offers and combination prices are listed on our event page and confirmed in writing at consultation.
PIH vs other post-acne problems
Knowing which one you have decides the treatment.
| Concern | Looks like | Cause | Treated with |
|---|---|---|---|
| Post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation | Flat brown or grey marks | Excess melanin | Toning, gentle peels |
| Post-inflammatory erythema | Flat red or pink marks | Dilated vessels | IPL, vascular care |
| Atrophic acne scars | Indented pits | Collagen loss | RF microneedling, lasers |
| Active acne | Inflamed spots | Oil, bacteria, inflammation | Medical acne care |
Dr. Min Ji Kim
Director · Board-certified specialist, MIN Clinic Cheongdam
- Former Director, Apgujeong ORACLE Dermatology
- Member, Korean Society for Cosmetic Dermatology
- Academic exchange, Shibuya Scramble Dermatology (miraDry), Japan
PIH treatment questions we hear most
Can’t find your answer? Message our English-speaking team on WhatsApp.
How long does PIH take to fade?
Without treatment, PIH can take 6–12 months or more. With gentle laser toning, peels and sunscreen, most marks lighten significantly within a few months.
Is PIH the same as acne scarring?
No. PIH is a colour change in flat skin, while scars change the skin’s texture. PIH fades; scars need resurfacing such as scar treatments.
Can laser make PIH worse?
Strong lasers can, especially in darker skin. That is why we use low-energy settings and build gradually.
What skincare helps PIH?
Daily broad-spectrum sunscreen is most important, plus ingredients such as niacinamide, azelaic acid, vitamin C or kojic acid. Avoid picking spots and harsh scrubs.
Can I treat PIH while I still have acne?
We treat active acne first or at the same time, because new breakouts keep creating new marks.
Often explored with PIH treatment
Plan your PIH treatment in Cheongdam
4F Daedong Tower, 326 Dosan-daero, Gangnam-gu, Seoul · Mon–Sat from 10:00 · English & Korean
Results vary by individual. A doctor consultation is required before any treatment.
