If your acne has cleared but you’re left with red or pink marks that just won’t fade, you’re not imagining it. Many people mistake these spots for acne scars, but in most cases, they’re actually something different post-inflammatory erythema (PIE).
These flat, reddish marks appear after inflammation from a pimple or breakout subsides, and although they can linger for weeks or months, they usually don’t cause permanent scarring. The good news? With the right care, they can fade completely.
In this guide, I’ll explain why these red marks form, how to tell them apart from scars or pigmentation, and what a dermatologist can do to help them disappear faster and more evenly.
What Are the Red Marks Left Behind After Acne?
When a spot finally heals, you might notice a red, pink, or even purplish mark that just won’t fade as quickly as you’d like. It can feel frustrating especially when your skin looks clear but still shows signs of past breakouts.
These lingering marks are usually caused by tiny, dilated blood vessels that formed during inflammation. When your skin was fighting the pimple, more blood rushed to the area to help repair the damage and bring in healing cells. Once the acne clears, those small vessels can stay temporarily widened, which is why the skin still looks red even though the bump is gone.
Dermatologists call this post-inflammatory erythema (PIE) and while it’s harmless, it can definitely be stubborn. The good news? With the right care and treatments, you can help those marks fade faster and restore an even skin tone.
PIE vs. Scars vs. Pigmentation: How to Tell the Difference
It’s easy to mistake one type of post-acne mark for another. You might see a red or brown spot and wonder whether it’s a scar or just temporary discolouration. Here’s how you can tell them apart.
If your marks are red, pink, or purplish, and the skin feels completely flat, you’re most likely dealing with post-inflammatory erythema (PIE). These marks appear when tiny blood vessels under your skin stay dilated after inflammation. They tend to fade over time, but treatments like laser therapy or microneedling can speed up recovery.
When the marks look brown or dark, they’re usually post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH). This happens when your skin produces too much melanin after inflammation. The area isn’t raised or indented it’s just darker than the surrounding skin. Chemical peels, retinoids, or gentle exfoliants can help even out your tone faster.
If the area feels textured, pitted, or raised, that’s a sign of true acne scarring. Scars form when inflammation affects the deeper layers of your skin, causing collagen loss (in the case of depressed scars) or excess collagen (in the case of raised ones). These need more intensive treatments like microneedling or laser resurfacing to smooth the surface.
By paying attention to colour and texture, you can get a clearer idea of what’s going on and choose the right approach to treat it.
Why Red Marks Happen
If you’ve ever wondered why those stubborn red marks stick around long after your breakout clears, you’re not alone. There are a few common reasons they appear and knowing what causes them can help you manage them better.
1. Inflammation During Acne
When a spot becomes inflamed, your body sends more blood to the area to fight bacteria and start the healing process. That rush of blood widens tiny blood vessels under your skin. Sometimes, even after the pimple settles, those vessels stay dilated for a while leaving your skin looking flushed or red.
2. Picking or Squeezing Pimples
If you squeeze or pick at a pimple, you’re actually causing more trauma beneath the surface. This can break delicate capillaries and trigger extra inflammation, which means your skin takes longer to calm down. The result? Red marks that linger much longer than they would have naturally.
3. Skin Sensitivity or Fair Complexion
If you have fair or sensitive skin, you might notice redness more easily. That’s because the blood vessels underneath are more visible. Even minor inflammation can show up as pink or purple marks that seem to take forever to fade.
4. Sun Exposure
Too much sun can make redness worse. UV rays irritate healing skin and slow down recovery. They can also trigger excess pigmentation, which means the marks become darker or take longer to fade. Wearing sunscreen daily is one of the simplest ways to prevent that.
5. Underlying Skin Conditions
If you deal with rosacea, eczema, or other inflammatory skin issues, your skin may already be more reactive. This makes you more prone to lingering redness after acne because your capillaries are naturally more sensitive and prone to dilation.
How Long Do Red Marks Last?
There’s no single answer to how long red marks stick around it really depends on your skin and how your acne healed. In general, post-inflammatory erythema (PIE) can linger anywhere from a few weeks to several months. In some cases, especially if you’ve had deeper breakouts or sensitive skin, it can even take up to a year for the marks to fade completely.
A few key factors can influence how long yours last:
- Severity of inflammation: The more intense the breakout, the more blood flow and damage occurs beneath the surface. That means it may take your skin longer to calm down and repair itself.
- Your skin type and tone: If you have fair or sensitive skin, redness can appear more obvious and stay visible for longer. Deeper skin tones may notice darker or purplish marks instead.
- Whether you picked or squeezed the spot: Manipulating a blemish increases trauma and inflammation, which almost always extends healing time.
- How well you care for your skin afterward: Gentle cleansing, daily SPF, and consistent hydration can all help your skin recover faster. Using products that support your barrier like niacinamide or ceramides can make a noticeable difference.
The good news is that PIE does fade naturally as your skin renews itself. But patience is key your body needs time to break down those dilated blood vessels and rebuild healthy tissue. If you’d rather not wait it out, treatments like laser therapy, microneedling, or light-based facials can speed things up dramatically and help restore a more even complexion.
How a Dermatologist Diagnoses Red Marks
If you’re unsure whether your post-acne marks are PIE, pigmentation, or actual scars, a dermatologist can help you figure it out. They’ll start with a careful visual assessment, sometimes using magnified tools or specialized lighting to get a closer look at your skin.
During the assessment, they’ll pay attention to several things:
- The colour and texture of your marks: Are they red, pink, brown, raised, or pitted? Each gives clues about what’s going on beneath the surface.
- Your skin tone and acne history: Your overall skin type and how your breakouts have behaved can influence the type of marks you develop.
- Underlying inflammation or scarring: Sometimes, what looks like a simple red mark might have a deeper component, like early scarring or ongoing irritation, which requires a different approach.
Once your dermatologist has a clear picture, they can recommend treatments that are specifically suited to your skin and the type of marks you have. That could include gentle topical products, in-office procedures like laser therapy or microneedling, or advice on at-home care to help your skin heal faster.
Seeing a professional ensures that you’re not guessing and that you’re giving your skin the right support for quicker, safer recovery.
Dermatologist-Recommended Treatments for Red Marks
If you’re looking to fade those stubborn red marks, there are several dermatologist-recommended options you can try. These help calm inflammation, encourage skin renewal, and even out your tone over time.
1. Topical Treatments
Niacinamide
This is a powerful anti-inflammatory vitamin that helps reduce redness and strengthens your skin barrier. If you use it consistently, it can calm lingering irritation and support faster healing, so your skin looks smoother and more even.
Azelaic Acid
Azelaic acid is another great option, especially if you notice both redness and some post-acne dark spots. It helps tone down inflammation while also reducing pigmentation, making it suitable for most skin types even sensitive skin.
Vitamin C Serums
Vitamin C is a potent antioxidant that brightens your complexion and helps repair damaged skin. It also supports collagen production, which can gradually reduce the visibility of red marks and give your skin a fresher, healthier appearance.
Retinoids
Prescription-strength retinoids or over-the-counter retinol work by increasing cell turnover, helping old, damaged skin shed faster. Over time, this can make redness fade more quickly and improve overall skin texture.
Important: If you’re starting retinoids, always do so under a dermatologist’s guidance. They can be irritating at first, which might temporarily make redness worse before it gets better.
2. Laser Treatments
Laser therapy is one of the most effective ways to target dilated blood vessels directly.
Vascular Lasers (e.g., Vbeam, IPL)
- Target red pigmentation without damaging surrounding skin
- Constrict blood vessels to reduce redness
- Offer visible improvement after 2–4 sessions
This option is especially effective for patients whose PIE has persisted for months or years.
3. Microneedling
Microneedling is an in-office treatment that uses tiny, fine needles to create micro-injuries in your skin. Don’t worry these are very controlled and safe. The process stimulates collagen production and encourages new skin to grow, which can help even out both tone and texture. Over time, this also supports repair of the small blood vessels that cause lingering redness.
If you want even more noticeable results, microneedling can be combined with radiofrequency or platelet-rich plasma (PRP). These add-ons boost skin regeneration and can help your red marks fade faster while improving overall skin firmness and smoothness.
4. Chemical Peels
Chemical peels are a popular way to help your skin shed damaged or discoloured layers more quickly. Gentle peels containing AHAs or lactic acid work by exfoliating the upper layers of your skin, which can help fade superficial redness and improve overall texture.
Depending on your skin type and sensitivity, your dermatologist may suggest a series of mild peels every 4–6 weeks. Over time, this consistent approach encourages healthier, smoother skin and makes red marks less noticeable.
5. LED Light Therapy
LED light therapy is a gentle, non-invasive option that uses specific wavelengths of light to calm inflammation and support your skin’s natural healing process. Red LED light, in particular, is ideal for post-acne skin because it helps reduce redness and promotes recovery from damage.
Many dermatology clinics include LED therapy as part of an ongoing acne recovery or maintenance plan. You might notice your skin looks calmer and more even-toned after several sessions, making it a great complement to other treatments like topical serums or microneedling.
How to Help Red Marks Fade Faster at Home
Fading red marks takes a bit of patience, but the good news is there are several steps you can take at home to support your skin’s healing process.
1. Stay Consistent with Moisturising
Keeping your skin well-hydrated is one of the simplest ways to help marks fade faster. Moisturising strengthens your skin barrier, which protects your skin from irritation and supports natural repair. Look for ingredients like ceramides, hyaluronic acid, and glycerin, which lock in moisture and soothe redness. Applying your moisturiser twice daily can make a noticeable difference over time.
2. Use Sunscreen Every Day
Even a short amount of sun can make redness worse or trigger pigmentation. Make it a habit to apply SPF 30 or higher every day, even if it’s cloudy, and reapply if you’re spending time outdoors. Sunscreen not only protects your skin but also helps any other treatments you’re using work more effectively.
3. Avoid Picking or Scrubbing
It can be tempting to pick at spots or scrub rough patches, but doing so can restart inflammation and make red marks linger longer. Be gentle with your skin avoid harsh exfoliants, physical scrubs, or any rubbing that can aggravate sensitive areas.
4. Try Cold Compresses
If the redness feels warm or irritated, a cool compress can help calm inflammation quickly. Apply for 5–10 minutes at a time, up to a few times a day. This is a simple way to soothe your skin and reduce that flushed appearance.
5. Be Patient
Finally, remember that skin regeneration takes time. Even with consistent care, red marks won’t disappear overnight. Sticking to your skincare routine, protecting your skin from the sun, and giving treatments time to work are the best ways to see lasting results.
Common Myths About Red Marks After Acne
There’s a lot of misinformation about red marks after acne, and it can be confusing to know what’s true. Let’s clear up some common myths so you know how to treat your skin effectively.
Myth 1: Red marks are permanent scars
It’s easy to assume that every red mark is a scar, but that’s not the case. Post-inflammatory erythema (PIE) usually fades over time and doesn’t leave lasting indentations. While it can be stubborn, your skin can often recover fully with patience and proper care.
Myth 2: You can scrub red marks away
Some people think aggressive exfoliation will remove redness faster. In reality, scrubbing can make things worse. Harsh exfoliants or over-washing irritate your skin, increase inflammation, and may even prolong healing. Gentle care is always more effective.
Myth 3: Only light skin gets PIE
While red marks are more noticeable on fair skin, PIE can affect any skin tone. People with darker skin may see brown or purple marks instead, which is called post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH). The type of mark just depends on your skin’s natural response to inflammation.
Myth 4: Makeup worsens PIE
You don’t have to avoid makeup entirely. Using non-comedogenic, gentle products is perfectly safe, as long as you cleanse thoroughly each night. Good makeup habits won’t interfere with healing, and they can even help you feel confident while your skin recovers.
How to Prevent Red Marks After Breakouts
- Treat acne early. Redness is less likely when breakouts are controlled.
- Don’t squeeze or pop spots. This causes capillary damage.
- Stick to a simple, gentle skincare routine. Avoid harsh cleansers or alcohol-based products.
- Incorporate calming ingredients. Look for niacinamide, panthenol, and green tea extract.
- See a dermatologist if breakouts persist or marks linger for more than three months.
What Happens if You Leave Red Marks Untreated?
In many cases, post-inflammatory erythema (PIE) will gradually fade on its own, even if you don’t do anything. However, if you leave red marks untreated, they can linger for months sometimes up to a year or longer. The longer the inflammation persists, the more it can affect your skin barrier, leaving your skin sensitive, dry, or prone to irritation.
Getting early professional care can make a big difference. Treatments recommended by a dermatologist not only help your red marks fade faster but also reduce the risk of them turning into darker pigmentation spots (PIH). In other words, taking action sooner can save you time and frustration in the long run and help your skin look even and healthy again.
When to See a Dermatologist
If your red marks have lasted for more than three months, or if you’ve tried home remedies with no improvement, it’s time to see a dermatologist.
They can:
- Confirm whether your marks are PIE or scarring
- Offer professional treatments like laser or microneedling
- Recommend safe, evidence-based skincare suited to your skin type
A consultation ensures your routine supports healing not delays it.
FAQs About Red Marks After Acne:
1. What exactly are red marks left behind after acne?
Red marks after acne are often the result of post-inflammatory erythema (PIE). When a pimple heals, the inflammation can cause tiny blood vessels under the skin to remain dilated, giving a persistent red, pink, or purplish appearance. These marks are usually flat and do not indicate permanent scarring, though they can take weeks to months to fade naturally. PIE differs from post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation or actual scars because it primarily affects blood vessels rather than pigment or deeper skin layers.
2. How can I tell the difference between PIE, pigmentation, and scars?
PIE usually appears as flat red or pink spots and results from dilated blood vessels. Post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH) appears brown or darker than the surrounding skin due to excess melanin, but it does not change the skin’s texture. Acne scars, on the other hand, are either raised or indented and result from changes in collagen in deeper layers of the skin. By paying attention to both colour and texture, you can distinguish between these conditions more accurately.
3. Why do red marks take so long to disappear?
Red marks can persist because the tiny blood vessels created during inflammation take time to return to their normal state. Picking or squeezing pimples, fair or sensitive skin, sun exposure, and underlying inflammatory conditions like rosacea or eczema can all contribute to prolonged redness. Even after the acne itself has healed, these factors can keep the skin looking flushed, making the marks appear stubborn.
4. Are certain skin types more prone to red marks after acne?
Yes. People with fair or sensitive skin often notice redness more prominently because the underlying blood vessels are more visible. Skin that is naturally reactive or prone to inflammation, as seen in conditions like rosacea or eczema, is also more likely to develop persistent red marks. While darker skin tones may see red marks less vividly, they may experience brown or purple discoloration instead.
5. Can red marks turn into permanent scars?
In most cases, red marks caused by PIE do not turn into permanent scars. Scarring generally occurs when inflammation damages the deeper layers of the skin, affecting collagen production. Red marks that remain flat and smooth are usually temporary, although if they are left untreated or repeatedly aggravated, they can occasionally contribute to longer-term skin issues like hyperpigmentation.
6. What treatments do dermatologists recommend for fading red marks?
Dermatologists often suggest a combination of topical treatments and in-office procedures depending on the severity of the marks. Topical options include niacinamide, azelaic acid, vitamin C, and retinoids, which help reduce inflammation and encourage skin renewal. Laser treatments, such as vascular lasers or IPL, target the dilated blood vessels directly. Microneedling, chemical peels, and LED light therapy are also effective for improving skin tone and texture while supporting healing from PIE.
7. Are there home remedies that can help red marks fade faster?
Yes, there are several ways to support healing at home. Consistently moisturizing helps strengthen the skin barrier and prevent irritation. Daily use of broad-spectrum sunscreen protects healing skin from UV damage and prevents pigmentation. Gentle skincare routines without harsh scrubbing or picking are essential, and cold compresses can soothe inflamed areas. While these steps don’t make red marks disappear overnight, they accelerate recovery and reduce further irritation.
8. How long does it typically take for red marks to fade completely?
The duration varies depending on factors like the severity of the initial inflammation, skin type, history of picking, and overall skin care. Red marks from PIE can fade within a few weeks to several months, though in some cases, particularly with deep breakouts or sensitive skin, they may persist for up to a year. Patience and consistent care are key to allowing the skin to repair itself naturally.
9. What common myths exist about red marks after acne?
There are several misconceptions surrounding red marks. Some people believe they are permanent scars, but PIE usually resolves over time. Others think aggressive scrubbing will remove the redness, which actually worsens inflammation. Red marks are not limited to fair skin; they can affect all skin tones in different ways. Finally, makeup does not necessarily worsen PIE if non-comedogenic, gentle products are used and removed properly.
10. When should I see a dermatologist about red marks?
A dermatologist should be consulted if red marks persist for more than three months, or if at-home care does not improve their appearance. Professional guidance is especially important to determine whether the marks are PIE, hyperpigmentation, or early scarring. A dermatologist can recommend tailored treatments like lasers, microneedling, or prescription topicals to help red marks fade more quickly and prevent further skin complications.
Final Thoughts: Red Marks Aren’t Forever
Red marks after acne can be frustrating, but the good news is that they’re usually temporary and respond well to the right care. By following a consistent skincare routine, protecting your skin from the sun, and avoiding picking or harsh scrubbing, you can give your skin the best chance to heal naturally.
If your marks persist or you’re unsure whether they’re PIE, pigmentation, or scarring, you can contact our dermatologist at the London Dermatology Centre for professional guidance. They can assess your skin, recommend treatments tailored to your needs, and help you create a plan that supports faster fading of red marks while keeping your skin healthy. Taking action early gives you the best chance of restoring an even, glowing complexion.
References:
1. Kalantari, Y., 2022. Post-acne erythema treatment: A systematic review of the literature. Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 21(8), pp. 2367-2375. Available at: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35076997/
2. Kashetsky, N., Feschuk, A. & Pratt, M.E., 2024. Post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation: A systematic review of treatment outcomes. Journal of the European Academy of Dermatology and Venereology, 38(3), pp. 470-479. Available at: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37843491/
3. Sangha, A.M., 2021. Managing Post-Inflammatory Hyperpigmentation in Acne. PMC. Available at: https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC8565877/
4. Erythema and Post-Inflammatory Hyperpigmentation in Acne Vulgaris. PMC. Available at: https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC11116308/ 5. Bae-Harboe, Y.S. and Graber, E.M., 2013. Easy as PIE (Postinflammatory Erythema). Journal of Clinical and Aesthetic Dermatology, 6(9), pp.46-47. Available at: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3780804/