What to do about hyperpigmentation caused by acne vulgaris?

Acne vulgaris^1,2 causes recurrent post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH) due to the associated inflammatory lesions. The affected areas of skin are therefore noticeable not only during the acute inflammation stage, but also afterwards due to their contrast.

As a result, active ingredients that have an equal effect on inflammation and pigmentation are becoming increasingly important. These include:

• Tranexamic acid (INCI, INN) or trans-4-(aminomethyl)cyclohexane-1-carboxylic acid is originally a synthetic drug used as an antifibrinolytic agent to prevent bleeding, especially when taken orally during surgery. Its effect on pigmentation disorders was discovered rather by chance.³ 

• Niacinamide (INCI), also known as niacin, vitamin B₃ or nicotinamide, has anti-inflammatory properties^4,5 and also influences melanosome transport.^6,7 

In Complexion skin care liposomes Plus, both active ingredients are combined with the penetration enhancer phosphatidylcholine for the indication-accompanying skin care of acne vulgaris and related skin disorders. Experience has shown that their synergy leads to a fundamental improvement in the overall skin condition.

Practical tips

• Apply Complexion skin care liposomes Plus directly to the skin in the morning and evening immediately after cleansing the face. 
• For oily acne, it is not necessary to use a base cream. 
• For dry acne, use the DMS Base Cream High Classic in addition.
• When outdoors and exposed to direct sunlight, use Sun cream SPF 50 instead.
• Further information on Complexion skin care liposomes Plus can be found at: https://dermaviduals.de/english/productlistings/dermaviduals-modular/active-agent-concentrates/liposomes/complexion-skin-care-liposomes-plus.html

References

1. H. Lautenschläger, Akne – Möglichkeiten der kosmetischen Prävention, Beauty Forum 2015 (2), 88-91
2. H. Lautenschläger, Ratgeber für Akne & Co., Medical 2025 (5), 38-41
3. H. Lautenschläger, Bewährter Aufheller – Tranexamsäure wirkt gegen Pigmentflecken und Rötungen, medical Beauty Forum 2015 (3), 12-14
4. A. R. Shalita, J. G. Smith, L. C. Parish, M. S. Sofman, D. K. Chalker, Topical nicotinamide compared with clindamycin gel in the treatment of inflammatory acne vulgaris, Int J Dermatol. 1995 Jun;34(6):434-7
5. E. Khodaeini et al., Topical 4% nicotinamide vs. 1% clindamycin in moderate inflammatory acne vulgaris, Int J. Dermatol 2013;52:999-1004
6. H. Lautenschläger, Auf den Punkt gebracht – Pigmentflecken, Medical 2024 (3), 24-27
7. A. Greatens et al: Effective inhibition of melanosome transfer to keratinocytes by lectins and niacinamide is reversible. Exp. Dermatol. 14 (2005), 498-508

Martina Grams