Post-acne marks: the spot is gone, the receipt isn’t

The breakout heals, and a flat mark stays behind. For many people, especially with deeper skin tones, the mark bothers them more than the spot did.

Brown or grey marks are often post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH): inflammation prompts extra melanin. Pink or red marks are more often related to blood vessels and lingering redness, and respond differently.

PIH is reported to be more common and more persistent in skin of colour. The most useful lever is often calming the breakouts that keep creating new marks.

Picking and harsh scrubbing add inflammation, which can extend the cycle.

• Treating the underlying acne, ideally with a clinician’s guidance.well-supported
• Daily sunscreen to avoid darkening existing marks.well-supported
• Azelaic acid, which addresses both breakouts and pigment.well-supported
• Retinoids for turnover and acne control.limited evidence
• Niacinamide as a gentle supporting step.limited evidence

• Scrubs and DIY lemon or baking soda remedies, which are more likely to irritate than help.
• Claims that a single product “erases scars.” Raised or indented scars are a different problem from flat marks.