Hello, this is Doctor Ha Ji-Soo from Rodam Korean Medicine Clinic Jamsil branch, specializing in removing scars.
Marks left on the skin after acne or skin treatments are a concern for many people.
Even after Coratherapy, redness often remains, and many people are confused
whether these marks are simply redness or pigmentation.
So today, I would like to clearly explain the difference between redness and pigmentation
and share the treatment methods for each.

What is the difference between redness (PIE) and pigmentation (PIH)?

In dermatological terms, redness is called PIE (Post-Inflammatory Erythema),
and pigmentation is called PIH (Post-Inflammatory Hyperpigmentation).
PIE refers to temporary redness that occurs after inflammation,
caused by damaged capillaries due to skin inflammation, resulting in red or pink marks.
It is more common in people with lighter skin tones and is unrelated to melanin.
In other words, it is a color change caused by vascular issues.

On the other hand, PIH occurs when melanin production increases excessively after inflammation,
leaving brown or black marks on the skin.
It is more common in people with darker skin tones and is caused by an increase in melanin.

A simple way to distinguish between the two is
to press the affected area with a transparent cup or glass.

If there is no change in color, it is PIH (pigmentation).
If the redness disappears or fades, it is PIE (redness).

How should redness (PIE) and pigmentation (PIH) be treated?

Since redness and pigmentation have different causes, their treatments also differ.
Redness requires treatments that stabilize blood vessels and reduce inflammation.
Vascular lasers such as PDL or IPL,
low-power RF, LED calming treatments, cryotherapy,
and moisturizing care can be helpful.
On the other hand, pigmentation requires treatments that suppress melanin production
and remove already deposited pigments.
Using skincare products containing whitening ingredients,
pigment lasers such as Pico laser or toning laser,
peeling, and sunscreen application are effective.

Are the marks left after Coratherapy redness?

In conclusion, they are redness.
Rodam Korean Medicine Clinic’s Coratherapy is a treatment that breaks down collagen adhesions within scars and creates a regeneration space
to stimulate the skin’s regenerative power.
During this process, the blood vessels are naturally stimulated, causing an inflammatory response.
This inflammatory response appears on the skin as redness.

Both red marks and pigmentation can fade over time,
but the speed and extent of fading depend on the skin’s regeneration rate and condition.
Therefore, if the marks do not fade easily, it is advisable to seek professional help.
If you are concerned about acne scars or have more questions about Coratherapy,
please feel free to contact Rodam Korean Medicine Clinic Jamsil branch anytime.
We are always here to assist you.