PIH vs PIE: How to Tell the Difference Between Dark Spots and Red Acne Scars

If you're wondering why your breakouts leave behind marks that just won't fade — you're not alone. Post-acne discoloration is common, but knowing whether you're dealing with PIH (Post-Inflammatory Hyperpigmentation) or PIE (Post-Inflammatory Erythema) is key to treating it effectively.

What Is PIH and PIE? (Definition)

What is PIH (Post-Inflammatory Hyperpigmentation)?

PIH is the dark brown or black mark that shows up after a pimple or skin injury heals. It happens when inflammation triggers excess melanin (pigment) in the skin.

• Common in medium to deep skin tones (Fitzpatrick Types III–VI)

• Caused by acne, sun exposure, picking, or trauma

• Not true scarring — just excess pigment in the epidermis or dermis

What is PIE (Post-Inflammatory Erythema)?

PIE is the red or pink mark left behind after a breakout, caused by dilated or damaged blood vessels — not pigment.

• Common in fair skin tones (Fitzpatrick Types I–II)

• Linked to sensitive skin, inflammation, and broken capillaries

• Lives deeper in the dermis where blood vessels reside

How to Know if You Have PIH or PIE

Type	Color	Skin Tone	Feels Like
PIH	Brown, gray, or black	Medium to dark	Flat discoloration
PIE	Red, pink, or purple	Light to fair	May feel warm or irritated

💡 Pro Tip: Take a photo in natural light. If the mark looks brown, it's likely PIH. If it looks red or pink, you're probably dealing with PIE.

Best Products for PIH and PIE

Products for PIH (Dark Spots)

Look for ingredients that brighten, resurface, and reduce pigment production:

• Vitamin C – Brightens dull skin and protects against UV damage

• Niacinamide – Calms inflammation and fades dark marks

• Azelaic Acid – Fights acne and pigmentation

• Alpha Arbutin – Gently lightens spots without irritation

• AHAs (like Mandelic or Lactic Acid) – Exfoliates and boosts cell turnover

Products for PIE (Redness)

You’ll want ingredients that calm, repair the barrier, and reduce inflammation:

• Cica (Centella Asiatica) – Soothes inflammation and heals the skin

• Green Tea Extract – Natural antioxidant that calms redness

• Licorice Root – Brightens and reduces redness

• Ceramides – Strengthen the skin barrier

• LED Therapy Devices – At-home red light can reduce inflammation

Professional Treatments for PIH and PIE at The Beauty Plug

Best Treatments for PIH (Hyperpigmentation)

• BioRePeel – Gentle yet powerful TCA peel that targets pigment with no downtime

• Brightening Facials – Custom facials using exfoliants, antioxidants, and calming masks

• Mesotherapy – Infuses pigment-reducing ingredients deep into the skin

• Carboxy Therapy – Stimulates skin healing and oxygenation, helping fade stubborn dark marks

Best Treatments for PIE (Redness)

• LED Light Therapy (Red + Blue Light) – Reduces redness and calms inflammation

• Barrier Repair Facials – Strengthens skin and reduces sensitivity

• Oxygen RX Treatment – Calms red, inflamed skin and supports healing

• Cold Therapy / Cryo-Globes – Constricts blood vessels and reduces visible redness

Both PIH and PIE will fade over time, but the right products and treatments can dramatically speed up the process — especially when you know what you’re working with.

At The Beauty Plug, we take the guesswork out of skincare. We’ll help you identify your skin type, pinpoint whether it’s PIH or PIE, and create a personalized plan that gets results.