Dark spots after acne

The pimple is gone, but a dark spot remains. This is called post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation. It is not a scar and usually not permanent, but it can remain visible for months. Here is what happens and what helps.

Written by the 247dermatologist editorial team, medically reviewed by dr. A.M. van Coevorden, dermatologist

Reviewed on 29 July 2026± 3 min read

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What happens in your skin

An inflammation activates the pigment cells in your skin. They produce extra pigment, exactly where the pimple was. When the inflammation heals, that extra pigment stays behind for a while. On lighter skin you often see red or purple spots; on darker skin the spots are brown to greyish brown.

Who gets it more often

Pigment spots after acne occur in everyone, but more often and more stubbornly in people with darker skin. For many people the spots end up being more bothersome than the pimples themselves, precisely because they remain visible for so long.

How long it takes

Count on months. Most spots fade within three to twelve months, sometimes longer. Sunlight is the great delayer: every time the spots are exposed to the sun unprotected, they become darker. Daily sun protection with SPF 30 or higher is therefore the most important step you can take yourself.

What helps

Treat the source. As long as the acne is active, new spots keep appearing. A dermatologist treats the acne itself and assesses whether treating the pigment spots makes sense. Aggressive scrubbing or bleaching on your own works against you: every new irritation is a new trigger for pigment.

Ingredients that can support the fading include vitamin C, niacinamide and mild exfoliants such as glycolic acid. Build up slowly and do not use them all at once; when in doubt, the dermatologist advises what suits your skin.

Unsure about your skin?

Want to know whether your spots are pigment or scars, and what can be done? A dermatologist assesses it within 12 to 48 hours based on your photos.

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Frequently asked questions

Are dark spots scars?

No. A pigment spot sits in the colour of the skin, a scar in its structure. Pigment spots usually fade; pits and thickened areas do not. In doubt? A dermatologist sees the difference directly on a photo.

Do the spots fade on their own?

Usually yes, but slowly. Count on months. Sunlight slows the fading; daily sun protection speeds it up.

What sun protection do I need?

A sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher every day, including cloudy days. For pigment spots this is the most important self-care step.

Sources

NVDV
NHG Practice Guideline Acne
Taylor et al. 2002.

Last revised on 29 July 2026

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