Laser toning
Low-energy Q-switched or pico toning breaks up excess pigment gradually, with settings adapted for darker skin. Often combined as Dual Toning.
Pigmentation & Brightening
Post-Acne Mark (PIH) Treatment in Gangnam, Seoul
Gentle care for the brown and dark marks left after acne, insect bites or irritation — our women doctors fade post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation with low-inflammation laser toning and brightening treatment, while keeping new breakouts under control.
3–6
sessions for visible fading
A
How do you get rid of post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (dark marks after acne)?
Post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH) is extra pigment left after skin inflammation, most often acne. It usually fades on its own over months, but treatment can speed this up. At Nest Clinic we combine low-energy laser toning, brightening topicals, gentle peels and strict sun protection, while controlling active acne so new marks don't form. Most patients see clear fading after 3–6 sessions spaced 1–2 weeks apart; results vary with depth and skin tone.
- Sessions
- 3–6, depending on depth
- Interval
- Every 1–2 weeks
- Downtime
- Minimal — light redness for a few hours
- Treatment time
- About 30 minutes
- Visible fading
- Often within 6–10 weeks
- Skin types
- Suitable for Fitzpatrick I–VI
Understanding PIH
Marks, not scars
When skin is inflamed — by a pimple, a scratch, a burn or even an aggressive treatment — pigment cells can overproduce melanin. The result is a flat brown, grey or dark mark that lingers after the original problem has healed. PIH is more common and longer-lasting in medium and darker skin tones.
PIH is different from acne scars, which change the skin's texture, and from red post-acne marks linked to facial redness. Many patients have more than one, so we assess each carefully.
Signs it may be PIH
- Flat brown or dark marks where pimples used to be
- Marks that darken after sun exposure
- No dip or bump in the skin's surface
- Appeared after a rash, burn, wax or harsh product
- Gradually fading over months rather than staying fixed
Our doctors use magnified skin analysis to tell PIH apart from melasma, freckles and textured scarring before choosing a treatment.
Our approach
Fade marks without new inflammation
The key is to brighten pigment gently — strong heat can create more PIH. Your plan is built from these steps.
Acne control first
If breakouts are still active, we treat them alongside the marks — see our acne treatment — so new PIH stops forming.
Gentle chemical peels
Mild, pigment-safe peels encourage turnover of discoloured cells with little downtime.
Brightening topicals
Prescription brightening agents and tranexamic acid support fading between clinic sessions.
LDM barrier care
Water-kinetic ultrasound keeps inflammation low and supports recovery between laser sessions.
Sun protection plan
Daily broad-spectrum sunscreen is essential; without it, marks darken again quickly.
What to expect
Marks that gradually fade
Drag the handle to compare. Dark marks lighten in stages across several sessions as excess pigment is cleared.
↔
Before
After 8 wks
Illustration for explanation only — not a patient photograph. Individual results vary; real case photos are shown during your consultation.
Is it right for you?
Good candidates
- Brown or dark marks left after acne
- Marks after insect bites, burns, waxing or eczema
- Medium and darker skin tones prone to lingering marks
- Patients whose acne is controlled or being treated
- Visitors who can attend 2+ sessions and continue topicals at home
Safety first
Possible side effects
Laser toning and gentle peels are generally well tolerated. Mild redness, dryness or flaking are common for a day or two. Uncommon risks include temporary darkening, patchy lightening if over-treated, and irritation from topicals. We reduce these with conservative energy, test areas where needed and careful spacing of sessions.
We postpone treatment during active infection, recent sunburn or pregnancy, and adjust plans if you use isotretinoin or other photosensitising medicines.
Your visit
How treatment works at Nest Clinic
Skin analysis
Magnified imaging to separate PIH, redness and scarring.
Doctor plan
Laser, peel and topical mix chosen for your skin tone.
Gentle laser
Low-energy toning in about 30 minutes.
Calming care
Cooling and barrier support after each session.
Home program
Sunscreen and brightening topicals to keep fading.
Medical reviewer · Medical Doctor
Dr. Hee-in Song
Dr. Song graduated from Seoul National University College of Medicine and is a member of Korean societies for laser, skin and hair medicine and aesthetic medicine. She focuses on skin-quality treatments — lasers, acne and pigmentation care. Nest Clinic is led entirely by women doctors, with one-to-one consultations.
Seoul National Univ. College of Medicine
Korean Society for Laser, Skin & Hair
Korean Society of Aesthetic Surgery
Korean Academy of Facial Filler
This page was medically reviewed by Dr. Hee-in Song in October 2026. It is for general information and does not replace an in-person diagnosis.
FAQ
Post-inflammatory Hyperpigmentation questions, answered
Will PIH go away on its own?
Often yes, but it can take 6–12 months or longer, especially in darker skin. Treatment and strict sun protection usually make fading noticeably faster.
How many sessions will I need?
Most patients need 3–6 sessions spaced 1–2 weeks apart. Deeper or long-standing marks may need more, and results vary.
Is there downtime? Can I go sightseeing?
Usually there is only mild redness for a few hours, so you can continue your plans the same day. Wear sunscreen and a hat outdoors.
Is laser safe for darker skin with PIH?
Yes, when settings are conservative. We use low-energy toning and longer intervals for darker skin to avoid creating new pigment.
What if I also have acne scars?
Textured scars need different treatments such as fractional resurfacing. We can plan both — see acne scar treatment.
Related treatments
Explore pigmentation and acne care
Consultation
Start fading your marks
Send a photo on WhatsApp for a first opinion in English, then book a skin analysis with our doctors.
Nest Clinic Gangnam · 4F–5F Seocho Building, 453 Gangnam-daero, Seocho-gu, Seoul
Sinnonhyeon Station Exit 7 · Gangnam Station Exit 10
Mon–Fri 10:00–20:00 · Sat 10:00–17:00 · Sun closed
Results differ from person to person. All medical procedures carry potential risks and side effects; a doctor will explain them before treatment. Information on this page is educational and not a substitute for a personal medical consultation.
Cost of Levulan PDT (Photodynamic Therapy)
₩150,000 to ₩300,000 per session
(Approximately
$110 to $220 USD per session)
Cost of Gold PTT (Photothermal Therapy)
₩200,000 to ₩400,000 per session
(Approximately $150 to $300 USD)
Cost of Thermage Lift treatment
₩1,500,000 to ₩4,000,000 per session
(Approximately $1,100 to $3,000 USD)
