| Active Ingredient | Mechanism of Action | Clinical Efficacy |
|---|---|---|
| 10% Niacinamide | Inhibits the transfer of melanosomes (melanin packets) from melanocytes to the outer skin cells (keratinocytes). | Fades superficial PIH and strengthens the skin barrier against further inflammation. |
| 10-20% Vitamin C | Acts as a potent antioxidant that neutralizes oxidative stress and directly suppresses tyrosinase, the enzyme responsible for melanin synthesis. | Brightens targeted dark patches and protects against visible blue light damage, which induces persistent pigmentation in darker skin. |
| 2% Salicylic Acid | A lipophilic BHA that exfoliates inside the pore. It stays superficial, keeping PIH risks low while preventing future acne. | Accelerates the shedding of pigmented dead skin cells without triggering deeper dermal inflammation. |
- Step 1: Cleanse with a gentle face wash.
- Step 2: Apply 3-4 drops of a 10% Vitamin C serum directly to the dry face, focusing on the right cheek patch.
- Step 3: Apply a broad-spectrum SPF 50 sunscreen. In India's intense UV climate, visible light and UV rays rapidly darken PIH. Reapply SPF every 2-3 hours.
- Step 1: Wash with a 1-2% Salicylic Acid cleanser to clear residual sebum and gently exfoliate the pigmented cells.
- Step 2: Apply a 10% Niacinamide serum to regulate melanin transfer overnight.
- Step 3: Seal with a ceramide-based, non-comedogenic moisturizer to repair the skin barrier.
Hinglish version: https://thedermaco.com/blogs/faq/melasma-vs-pih-one-sided-cheek-pigmentation-serums-hinglish
