Post Inflammatory Hyper pigmentation on legs from burn.
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Sat May 12, 2012 2:44 am

Hello everyone,

Two years ago I got sunburnt severely (2nd degree), I was hospitalised and had to have fluids, pain relief and antibiotics. This last year my whole shin area has become covered in post inflammatory pigmentation. The rest of my legs are unmarked and all one colour. It covered the area where I was more severely burnt. I've been using nia 24 and retin-a. Does anyone else have any other ideas? Thanks Smile

free skin care · Tue Jun 26, 2012 5:45 pm

Maybe aloe, CPs, comfrey, other actives?? Also, you could try massage (that took a thin white 8-inch long scar off my leg with 9 months of a couple minute massage every day). But I'd consult with a doctor or dermatologist, as you don't want to go this alone. HTH and best wishes Smile

free skin care · Tue Jun 26, 2012 9:13 pm

Oh, sorry, were you asking more about the hyperpigmentation? I really don't know much about this area, but there are others on EDS who know a lot more about this. But in my notes on what others have said, I have the following down as being ingredients to investigate:

* Kojic Acid
* Alpha Arbutin
* Mulberry Extract
* Bearberry Extract
* Licorice Extract
* Lemon Peel Bioferment
* Sea Kelp Bioferment
* Obagi
* Hydroquinone

Sorry, I don't know this topic well at all, so hopefully someone can correct or verify all this for you.

Also, you could search for threads on hyperpigmentation, come up with a list of options, and then consult with your derm/doctor. That's what I'd recommend.

Good luck Smile

free skin care · Wed Jun 27, 2012 7:38 am

It's interesting the PIH appeared so long after the initial burn, are you still allowing the area to be exposed to UV light? IMO the most important thing to do is apply a quality physical sunscreen religiously and keep that area out of even indirect sunlight at all times.

The PIH might also suggest there continues to be underlying irritation/ inflammation, be that systemic or local or both. IMO avoid cleansing with anionic surfactants (especially sulphates) or alkaline soaps and avoid all manual exfoliation or rubbing with terry cloth towels. For topicals I would use a proven combination which is also gentle - either niacinamide with N-acetyl glucosamine OR a retinoid with vitamin C, preferably in a formula with a pH similar to skin. IMO do not use L-ascorbic acid or Retin-A because both of these can cause or increase irritation. Aloe vera has proven healing and anti-inflammatory properties, you might make a simple shea-aloe butter with unrefined West African shea.

You might also review your diet to ensure it is as anti-inflammatory as possible and contains a balance of all nutrients to optimise repair and regeneration. This means cutting out all sugar and white/ refined carbs, plenty of essential fatty acids especially those from oily fish, plenty of fruit and veg in a rainbow of colours, protein little and often starting with breakfast, limiting caffeine and alcohol.

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