Final answer:
Post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation is a condition where skin darkens after inflammation, caused by increased melanin production from melanocytes. It's more noticeable in darker skin tones and can resolve over time with appropriate treatment. It is different from hyperpigmentation that may signal diseases like Addison's, or changes in skin color due to other conditions and exposure factors.
Step-by-step explanation:
What is Post-inflammatory Hyperpigmentation?
Post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH) is a condition where the skin becomes darker in areas that have recently been inflamed. This condition is common after an injury to the skin, such as cuts, burns, acne, or certain conditions like eczema. The inflammation stimulates melanocytes, the cells responsible for producing the pigment melanin, to increase their activity and produce more pigment. As the skin heals, it leaves behind areas of darker skin. While PIH can affect individuals with any skin type, it is particularly noticeable and may last longer in people with darker skin tones.
Treatments for PIH typically focus on promoting skin cell turnover with topical agents to lighten the affected areas, protecting the skin from sun exposure, and preventing further inflammation. It's important to note that while hyperpigmentation can be a sign of conditions like Addison's disease, PIH specifically refers to pigmentation following an inflammatory event, and it can resolve over time with proper skin care and treatment.
Including PIH under the general umbrella of hyperpigmentation, other skin conditions can also lead to changes in skin color. For example, vitiligo causes depigmentation, resulting in lighter patches of skin. Conversely, conditions like keloids result in an excess of tissue formation, which can also affect skin coloration. Regular exposure to UV light, such as in sunburn, can also contribute to hyperpigmentation due to the skin's defensive tanning response. Understanding the underlying cause of skin color changes is key in seeking appropriate treatment and care.