Fading dark marks after breakouts · Myeongdong, Seoul
Post-Acne Hyperpigmentation in Myeongdong, Seoul
Brown and dark spots that linger after acne heals, faded with laser toning, peels and brightening care — gently, to avoid making pigment worse.
- Same price as locals
- English-speaking team
- Book on WhatsApp
- 中文 · 日本語
Quick answer
What is post-acne hyperpigmentation?
Post-acne hyperpigmentation, or post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH), is the flat brown or dark mark left after a spot heals. Inflammation tells pigment cells to produce extra melanin, which stays in the skin for months — it is a colour change, not a scar.
PIH often fades on its own but slowly, especially in medium and darker skin. Low-energy laser toning, pico laser, gentle peels and brightening ingredients such as vitamin C, niacinamide or tranexamic acid speed this up. Red marks are different and respond better to IPL.
Medically reviewed by Dr. Yoon Jong-woo , Medical Director, Umi Clinic (Korean-licensed physician) · Updated October 2026. Results vary by person; the doctor explains risks, side effects and alternatives at consultation.
- Session
- 15–30 min
- Numbing
- Usually not needed
- Downtime
- None to mild redness
- Results
- Lighter over 1–3 months
- Interval
- Every 2–4 weeks
- Pricing
- Same price as locals
Your visit
How Post-acne pigmentation works at Umi
Every visit is doctor-led and explained in English, from the first skin check to aftercare.
- Mark analysis
The doctor separates brown PIH from red marks and true scars.
- Gentle plan
Low-energy settings are chosen to avoid triggering more pigment.
- Laser or peel
Laser toning, pico laser or a brightening peel is applied.
- Protect & brighten
Daily SPF 50 and brightening skincare between sessions.
Before & after
How post-acne marks fade
Excess melanin is broken down and cleared gradually while sun protection stops new pigment forming.
Marks may look slightly lighter at the edges.
Dark spots fade more clearly.
Tone looks more even overall.
Is it right for you?
Who Post-acne pigmentation suits best
Good fit if you…
- Have flat brown or dark marks after acne
- Have medium or darker skin prone to PIH
- Want gentle treatment with little downtime
- Can wear sunscreen every day
Consider another option if…
- Acne is still very active — control it first
- Marks are pitted — those are scars, not pigment
- You are pregnant or using photosensitising medicines
- You have a fresh tan or sunburn
Recovery & results
What to expect, step by step
- Same day
Mild pinkness; make-up the same day in most cases.
- First weeks
Keep strict sun protection to avoid darkening.
- 1–3 months
Marks fade progressively with sessions.
- Ongoing
Sunscreen and good acne control prevent new marks.
FAQ
Post-acne pigmentation questions
Will post-acne marks fade on their own?
Many do over 6–12 months or longer, but treatment and sun protection can speed this up considerably.
Is it a scar?
No. PIH is a flat colour change. Indented or raised marks are scars and need different treatment.
Is laser safe for darker skin?
Low-energy toning and pico lasers can be used carefully on darker skin; settings are kept conservative to avoid rebound pigmentation.
Which skincare helps?
Sunscreen first, then ingredients like vitamin C, niacinamide, azelaic acid or tranexamic acid as advised.
Do foreigners pay more?
No. International patients pay the same price as local patients at Umi Clinic.
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Plan your visit
Ask about Post-acne pigmentation in English
Send a photo and your travel dates on WhatsApp — the team replies with a plan and a same-as-locals price.
Umi Clinic (우미의원) · 13 Myeongdong 7-gil, Jung-gu, Seoul · Near Myeongdong Station Exit 6 · Directions & hours
