After months of cold, dry air, many of us are stepping into warmer months hoping to revive our dull, winter-worn complexions. But for those with atopic dermatitis (eczema), the seasonal transition isn’t always smooth. If you’re dealing with lingering dark spots, uneven tone, or patches of discolouration, you’re not alone – post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH) is a frustrating but common aftereffect of eczema flare-ups.
What is hyperpigmentation from atopic dermatitis?
Atopic dermatitis is an inflammatory skin condition that can leave behind areas of darker (or sometimes lighter) skin after a flare. This change isn’t scarring it’s caused by increased melanin production in response to inflammation or scratching. It can affect all skin tones, but it’s often more noticeable and persistent in melanin-rich skin.
This can persist for weeks to even months after the active flare has subsided, often lingering long after the redness and itching are gone. It typically appears in areas that endure repeated irritation or scratching, such as the neck, face, hands, and the inner creases of the arms or legs. One of the most important but often overlooked factors in managing post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation is sun exposure, which can significantly worsen discolouration and slow the skin’s natural healing process.
According to Dr. Bradley Wagemaker, Medical Director of Lamelle Research Laboratories, “Post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation is not just a cosmetic concern – it’s a visible sign of deeper inflammation and barrier disruption. Consistent barrier repair and daily sun protection are critical in fading these marks and preventing them from becoming long-term issues.”
Spring/summer skin reset
As the weather warms up and we head into spring and summer, all we want is for skin to feel bright, deeply moisturised, and effortlessly smooth, a healthy glow that looks just as good bare as it does under SPF. After months of battling dryness, flare-ups, and post-winter dullness, the goal is simple: skin that feels calm, even toned, and comfortable in the heat.
The first step is to calm the inflammation. Using a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory product on affected areas can help soothe the skin, while bio-peptide infused cleansers reduce the formation of excess hyperpigmentation. Next, barrier repair is essential. We recommend applying a ceramide-rich moisturiser morning and night like Serra Restore Cream to deeply hydrate and strengthen the skin’s protective barrier.
Once your skin is stable and resilient, it becomes safer to target pigmentation gently. The optimum blend of pigment inhibiting peptides, hyaluronic acid, lactic acid, and arbutin in Luminesce Evening Glow can help fade dark marks over time. And finally, sun protection is non-negotiable. Daily use of a broad-spectrum SPF 50 with organic mineral filters, photo-protection and ASE technology (enzymes like Photolyase and OGG1 to fix direct and indirect DNA damage, and antioxidants) like Helase 50 is critical to prevent UV from worsening pigmentation and delaying healing. Be sure to reapply, especially when spending more time outdoors during the warmer months on sun exposed skin.
Don’t let it be next year’s problems
To reduce the risk of hyperpigmentation before winter-induced dermatitis hits next year – get ahead of the curve. It is essential to prepare your skin well in advance of the cold season. Begin by reinforcing your skin barrier with daily use of moisturisers rich in ceramides, to lock in hydration and protect against dryness and inflammation. Introduce a gentle antioxidant serum, like Vita-C Lipid Serum or look for products with pigment inhibiting peptides in the ingredient list, to help brighten skin tone and defend against environmental stressors that can worsen pigmentation. Use a mild, non-stripping cleanser and avoid over-exfoliation, which can increase sensitivity. Preparing your skin ahead of time can significantly reduce the chances of dermatitis leading to stubborn dark spots later in the season.
This multi-step, skin-respecting approach aligns with Lamelle’s philosophy to support the skin, restore its barrier, and let real radiance return – gently, safely, and effectively through technology like no other.
