How to Get Rid of Post-Inflammatory Erythema (PIE)

Post-inflammatory erythema (PIE) is a common skin condition that occurs after an inflammatory event, such as acne, rosacea, or a skin injury. PIE is characterized by red or pink marks on the skin that can last for weeks or even months after the initial inflammation has resolved. In this blog post, we will discuss what causes PIE, how to prevent it, and the various treatment options available.

Causes of Post-Inflammatory Erythema

PIE occurs when inflammation causes blood vessels in the skin to dilate, resulting in red or pink marks on the skin. It can be triggered by a variety of inflammatory events, including acne, rosacea, eczema, psoriasis, and skin injuries. PIE is more common in people with fair skin and those with a history of sun damage.

Prevention of Post-Inflammatory Erythema

The best way to prevent PIE is to prevent the underlying inflammatory event that causes it. This may involve taking steps to prevent acne, such as keeping the skin clean, avoiding oily or greasy products, and using non-comedogenic skincare products. For those with rosacea, avoiding triggers such as hot drinks, spicy foods, and alcohol can help prevent flare-ups.

It's also important to protect the skin from the sun, as sun exposure can exacerbate PIE. This can be done by wearing a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30 and avoiding sun exposure during peak hours.

Treatment Options for Post-Inflammatory Erythema

Topical treatments are often the first line of defense against PIE. These include topical steroids, azelaic acid, niacinamide, and vitamin C. Topical steroids can reduce inflammation and redness, while azelaic acid, niacinamide, and vitamin C can help even out skin tone and reduce redness.

Laser treatments can be effective in treating PIE by targeting blood vessels in the skin and reducing redness. One popular laser treatment for PIE is the pulsed dye laser (PDL), which can selectively target blood vessels in the skin without damaging surrounding tissue.

Chemical peels can also be effective in treating PIE by exfoliating the skin and reducing redness. Chemical peels work by removing the top layer of skin, revealing fresher, smoother skin underneath. They can be done in-office or at home, but it's important to consult with a dermatologist before trying any at-home treatments.

Microneedling involves using a device with small, sterile needles to puncture the skin and stimulate collagen production. This can help reduce redness and improve the overall texture and appearance of the skin.

Post-inflammatory erythema can be a frustrating condition to deal with, but there are a variety of treatment options available. The best way to prevent PIE is to prevent the underlying inflammatory event that causes it, such as acne or rosacea. Topical treatments, laser treatments, chemical peels, and microneedling can all be effective in treating PIE, but it's important to consult with a dermatologist to determine the best course of treatment for your individual needs.

Sources

Postinflammatory hyperpigmentation and erythema, Dermatology Times, https://www.dermatologytimes.com/view/postinflammatory-hyperpigmentation-and-erythema

Postinflammatory erythema: How to treat the after effects of acne, Dermatology News, https://www.mdedge.com/dermatology/article/152015/acne/postinflammatory-erythema-how-treat-after-effects-acne

Postinflammatory erythema, American Academy of Dermatology

Back to blog
Based on 2976 reviews
83%
(2469)
12%
(360)
3%
(96)
1%
(26)
1%
(25)

I really love this moisturizer and have been using it for over a year now. Every once in a while i will try something new but i keep coming back to this one. Its the best!

Improvement

Have been using for a few weeks now and notice an improvement in texture and firmness. You don’t have to use a lot, so it lasts. Will likely order another jar when my supply is used!

Amazing Neck Cream. Visible results.

I’m in love with this neck cream. My neck is left moisturised and toned. I can definitely see the lifting effect immediately.

Great product

I was very pleasantly surprised to notice a difference in the appearance of my neck after using this product.

The BEST! ❤️

Best night cream ever!!!

Can't live without it

Drastic results. I'm very self conscious of my neck. Big improvement with daily use.

GAME CHANGER!!

I've suffered from a slight double-chin that is pronounced when I'm talking/using my voice in any way and is worsened by water retention. After using this product for over a week, my jawline is WAY more defined

The best cream for the neck!

I like that I don't have to use a lot for my neck, it has a great consistency and you can see the effects.

I love the results I’ve

I love the results I’ve seen. The size of the purchase was a great value also!!

Really seemed to work within

Really seemed to work within a few days with only a small amount required. I’ve now ordered the large one

Phenomenal results!

Have been using the neck cream for months. It has helped to prevent deep lines.

This product is amazing… worked right away

Ive been using this product

Ive been using this product for a few months and Im addicted. It truly works and I recommend it.

Since using the Advanced Tightening

Since using the Advanced Tightening Neck cream my neck is firmer and more smooth.

Nice hydrating cream

Got it at Costco in a two pack. Very hydrating and gives glow.

Love this. There are not

Love this. There are not many brands that focus solely on a neck cream. It’s extremely smooth when applying and you only need a small amount as goes a long way.

Excellent

Only a sample size. But it was lovely to use Would purchase

Neck cream lovely to use

Pleasant to use, feel I am doing all I can to combat this sagging area by using this great product! I am also using it on my décolletage area.

Smooth and amazing

This cream is amazing making my next smoother and so much younger looking!!!

Best neck cream I’ve tried

This cream is fantastic, tried many other brands and by far the best, the cream has a silky consistency and glided on the skin, very worth while purchase

Love all the products in

Love all the products in the clearly range my grandson put me onto it telling me how good it was

Emotional uplifting

So glad I bought the neck cream. I was on medication that that swelled my face and neck. I needed this after the med wore off to revitalize the skin.

neck cream

What a difference. I took pictures and you can see the difference especially around my chin. I use the light weight cream for sensitive skin. Now i'm going to order more.