Glow Definition
Post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation in skincare — often shortened to PIH — refers to the darkened spots or patches that remain on the skin after inflammation. It’s not a scar, but a residual mark left behind from breakouts, irritation, or physical trauma like picking or over-exfoliation. PIH can show up as pink, red, brown, or purplish tones depending on your skin tone and depth of pigmentation.
PIH is one of the most common forms of discoloration, especially for those with reactive or melanin-rich skin. PIH is often grouped under hyperpigmentation, but what makes it unique is that it’s always preceded by some kind of visible skin disruption. That context matters — because supporting skin recovery is often just as important as correcting tone.
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Why It Matters
PIH is one of the most common reasons people seek out tone-correcting products — but what often gets missed is the timing. Addressing PIH too aggressively or too soon can lead to more irritation, especially if the skin hasn’t fully healed. Understanding the difference between active breakouts and lingering pigment helps you respond more thoughtfully to what your skin actually needs.
It also reframes how we think about glow. Instead of chasing fast fixes, supporting PIH means learning to recognize what your skin holds onto — and why. That perspective can shift your routine from reactive to restorative, one layer at a time.
GLOW TIP Don’t rush PIH recovery — focus on calming the skin first, then introduce tone-supportive ingredients like niacinamide or vitamin C.
Why We Love It For Glow
PIH reminds us that glow isn’t always immediate — sometimes it’s a process of repair. These marks tell a story: that your skin has been through something, and now it’s rebuilding. We don’t love the pigmentation itself, but we respect what it reflects — a moment of pause, a need for care, and the space to recalibrate your routine.
Supporting skin through PIH builds a different kind of glow. It’s quieter, steadier, and more grounded in patience than performance. And that’s the kind of glow that tends to last.
Reach for KraveBeauty Great Barrier Relief Serum — a creamy emulsion designed to calm visible disruption and help reset the skin’s baseline before addressing tone.
This serum’s cushiony texture layers well with a minimal routine, making it a thoughtful first step when supporting skin recovering from PIH.
FAQ
What causes post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH) in skincare?
PIH appears after visible inflammation — like breakouts, irritation, or skin trauma. It’s the skin’s way of responding to disruption by producing extra pigment in that area.
How is PIH different from other forms of hyperpigmentation?
Unlike general hyperpigmentation, PIH is always linked to a prior event on the skin. It’s reactive, not random — and understanding that context helps guide how you treat it.
What’s the best way to support skin with PIH?
Start by calming the area and rebuilding your barrier. Once skin feels steady, slowly introduce tone-supportive ingredients like niacinamide, vitamin C, or a gentle retinoid — always paired with daily SPF.