Cortisone shots for acne side effects. Cortisone Shots for Acne: Benefits, Side Effects, and Alternatives

04.11.202010.07.2023 by alexxlab

What are cortisone shots for acne. How do cortisone injections work for cystic acne. What are the potential side effects of steroid shots for acne. When should you consider cortisone injections for acne treatment. What are the alternatives to cortisone shots for severe acne.

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Understanding Cortisone Shots for Acne Treatment

Cortisone shots, also known as steroid or intralesional corticosteroid injections, are a targeted treatment option for severe forms of acne, particularly cystic acne. These injections involve the administration of a synthetic hormone directly into acne cysts or nodules to rapidly reduce inflammation, swelling, and pain.

The primary component of these injections is typically a small amount of a corticosteroid, such as triamcinolone (Kenalog), which is renowned for its potent anti-inflammatory properties. By delivering this medication directly to the problematic area, dermatologists can effectively shrink large cysts and nodules that may otherwise take weeks to resolve on their own.

How do cortisone shots work for acne?

Cortisone shots work by suppressing the inflammatory response within the acne lesion. When injected, the corticosteroid reduces the production of inflammatory chemicals, thereby decreasing redness, swelling, and pain. This localized treatment can provide relief within a few days, significantly speeding up the healing process of stubborn acne lesions.

Benefits of Cortisone Injections for Acne

The use of cortisone shots in acne treatment offers several advantages, particularly for those struggling with severe, cystic acne:

Rapid reduction of inflammation and swelling
Quick relief from pain associated with large acne cysts
Faster healing time compared to untreated cystic acne
Targeted treatment that doesn’t affect surrounding skin
Potential to prevent or reduce acne scarring

For individuals dealing with persistent, painful acne cysts that don’t respond to typical acne therapies, cortisone injections can provide much-needed relief and improve skin appearance in a relatively short time frame.

When are cortisone shots recommended for acne?

Dermatologists typically recommend cortisone shots for specific cases of acne, including:

Large, painful cystic acne lesions
Nodular acne that doesn’t respond to other treatments
Acne cysts that are at risk of scarring
Situations where rapid improvement is necessary (e.g., before important events)

It’s important to note that while effective, cortisone shots are not intended for regular use or as a primary acne treatment. They are reserved for occasional use on specific problematic lesions.

Potential Side Effects of Cortisone Shots for Acne

While cortisone injections can be highly effective in treating severe acne, they are not without potential risks and side effects. Understanding these possible complications is crucial for anyone considering this treatment option.

What are the common side effects of cortisone shots for acne?

The most frequently reported side effects of cortisone injections for acne include:

Skin atrophy: Thinning or pitting of the skin at the injection site
Hypopigmentation: Lightening of the skin around the treated area
Temporary pain or discomfort at the injection site
Potential for infection (though rare with proper technique)

In most cases, these side effects are temporary and resolve on their own over time. However, in some instances, they may require additional treatment or intervention.

Can cortisone shots cause long-term skin changes?

While rare, long-term skin changes can occur from cortisone injections. These may include:

Persistent skin depressions or indentations
Long-lasting hypopigmentation
Telangiectasia (visible small blood vessels near the skin’s surface)

To minimize the risk of these long-term effects, it’s crucial to limit the frequency and dosage of cortisone injections and to receive treatment only from experienced dermatologists.

The Process of Receiving Cortisone Shots for Acne

Understanding the procedure for cortisone injections can help alleviate anxiety and prepare patients for what to expect during treatment.

How is a cortisone shot for acne administered?

The process of receiving a cortisone shot for acne typically involves the following steps:

Cleansing of the treatment area
Application of a topical anesthetic (if necessary)
Injection of a small amount of diluted corticosteroid directly into the acne lesion
Application of pressure to the injection site to prevent bleeding

The entire procedure usually takes only a few minutes and can be performed in a dermatologist’s office. Multiple injections can be administered in one session if necessary, targeting different problematic areas.

How often can you receive cortisone shots for acne?

To minimize the risk of side effects, dermatologists typically recommend waiting at least 6 weeks between injections in the same area. The frequency of treatments depends on individual needs and the severity of acne, but cortisone shots are not intended for regular, ongoing use as part of a routine acne management plan.

Alternatives to Cortisone Shots for Acne Treatment

While cortisone shots can be effective for treating severe acne, they are not the only option available. Several alternative treatments can be considered, depending on the type and severity of acne.

What are some effective alternatives to cortisone shots for acne?

Some alternative treatments for severe acne include:

Oral isotretinoin: A powerful medication that can effectively treat severe, resistant acne
Topical retinoids: Medications like adapalene or tazarotene that can help prevent and treat acne
Oral antibiotics: Such as tetracycline, which can help control bacterial growth and inflammation
Hormonal treatments: Including spironolactone or oral contraceptives for women with hormonally-driven acne
Chemical peels: Professional treatments that can help exfoliate the skin and reduce acne
Light and laser therapies: Non-invasive treatments that can target acne-causing bacteria and reduce inflammation

These alternatives may be used individually or in combination, depending on the specific needs of the patient and the recommendation of their dermatologist.

Understanding Cystic Acne and Its Causes

Cystic acne, the most severe form of acne, is characterized by large, painful, inflamed lesions that form deep under the skin. Unlike milder forms of acne, cystic acne can be particularly challenging to treat and often requires professional intervention.

What factors contribute to the development of cystic acne?

Several factors can contribute to the development of cystic acne:

Hormonal imbalances: Fluctuations in androgens, estrogen, and testosterone can trigger cystic acne
Genetics: A family history of severe acne increases the likelihood of developing cystic acne
Environmental factors: High humidity, excessive sweating, and certain skincare products can exacerbate acne
Medications: Some drugs, including lithium, corticosteroids, and certain anticonvulsants, can trigger cystic acne
Bacteria: The presence of Propionibacterium acnes (P. acnes) bacteria can contribute to inflammation and cyst formation

Understanding these contributing factors can help in developing a comprehensive treatment plan that addresses the root causes of cystic acne, rather than just managing symptoms.

When to Seek Professional Help for Acne

While mild acne can often be managed with over-the-counter treatments, severe or persistent acne may require professional intervention. Knowing when to consult a dermatologist is crucial for effective acne management and prevention of long-term skin damage.

When should you consult a dermatologist for acne treatment?

Consider seeking professional help if:

Your acne is severe, persistent, or cystic
Over-the-counter treatments have not been effective
You’re developing acne scars
Acne is significantly impacting your self-esteem or quality of life
You have a family history of severe acne
Your acne seems to be triggered by hormonal changes or medications

A board-certified dermatologist can provide a comprehensive evaluation of your skin, identify underlying causes of your acne, and develop a personalized treatment plan that may include cortisone shots, oral medications, topical treatments, or a combination of therapies.

By seeking professional help early, you can potentially prevent the progression of acne to more severe forms and minimize the risk of permanent scarring. Remember, while cortisone shots can be an effective tool in managing severe acne, they are just one of many treatment options available. A dermatologist can help you navigate these choices and find the most appropriate solution for your individual needs.

Cortisone Shot for Acne: Benefits & Side Effects

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Medically reviewed by Sara Perkins, MD — By Scott Frothingham on September 4, 2020

To reduce the inflammation, swelling, and pain of cystic acne, a dermatologist can inject a diluted corticosteroid directly into a cyst.

This treatment is usually reserved for tender, swollen acne nodules, or cysts that aren’t responding to typical acne therapies. It can be very effective in shrinking nodules and cysts.

While a dermatologist may refer to the treatment as an intralesional corticosteroid injection, it’s widely known as a cortisone or steroid injection shot, or a cortisone injection.

Read on to learn more about the benefits and side effects of these injections.

A cortisone shot is the injection of a synthetic hormone. It’s used for short-term relief of inflammation and to shrink large cysts. The injections can be used on both the face and the body.

The shot, which is injected directly into an acne cyst or nodule, typically contains a small amount of a steroid, such as triamcinolone (Kenalog), a powerful anti-inflammatory.

Cysts and nodules may take weeks to resolve on their own. A steroid injection can reduce the swelling, redness and pain in a few days.

While this procedure can be quick and effective, there’s a possibility of side effects. These include:

Pitting or thinning of the skin at the site of the injection. This can result in a visible depression where the cyst was. These depressions are often temporary and resolve on their own. Otherwise, your dermatologist may recommend dermal fillers.
Hypopigmentation, an area of lighter than normal skin or a white spot. Over time, this often goes away on its own.
Systemic effects from the steroid. This could be caused if more than the limit is injected and absorbed into the bloodstream.

You can get multiple injections in one session, with each injection going to a different area. You must wait about 6 weeks between injections in the same spot.

These injections are meant to be an occasional treatment for specific cysts and nodules. It’s not meant to be a regular part of your acne treatment or skin care regimen.

Cystic acne is considered to be the most severe form of acne.

Typically, acne appears as:

pimples
whiteheads
blackheads
papules
pustules

Acne is usually caused by your skin’s pores becoming clogged with dead skin cells and oil. Bacteria, such as Propionibacterium acnes (P. acnes), is also often involved.

Sometimes a clogged pore breaks deep inside the skin forming large tender, painful bumps known as cysts (pus filled bumps) or nodules (inflamed bumps). These bumps can last for weeks or longer.

Cystic acne, like other acne, is caused by the interaction of a number of different factors:

Hormones. Testosterone, estrogen, and androgen are linked to cystic acne.
Genetics. If one of your parents has cystic acne, you’re more likely to develop it.
Environment. High humidity, excessive perspiration, makeup, lotions, and cleansers can cause cystic acne.
Certain drugs and chemicals. Lithium, corticosteroids, isoniazid, and phenytoin are associated with cystic acne.

Other treatments your dermatologist may discuss with you include:

isotretinoin
antibiotics (tetracycline)
topical retinoids (adapalene, tazarotene)
spironolactone
oral contraceptives (for women)

While cortisone injections aren’t meant to be used as a regular acne treatment, they can be very effective with cystic acne.

If you have large, red, painful bumps deep in your skin that don’t form a head, you may have cystic acne. Consult with a board-certified dermatologist about recommended treatments, including cortisone injections.

Also check with your insurance regarding coverage. Some policies may classify cortisone injections as a cosmetic treatment and not cover them.

Last medically reviewed on September 4, 2020

How we reviewed this article:

Healthline has strict sourcing guidelines and relies on peer-reviewed studies, academic research institutions, and medical associations. We avoid using tertiary references. You can learn more about how we ensure our content is accurate and current by reading our editorial policy.

Acne. (2014).
girlshealth.gov/body/grooming/acne.html
Acne. (2020).
health.cornell.edu/sites/health/files/pdf-library/Acne.pdf
Acne: Causes & treatment. (2017).
my.clevelandclinic. org/health/diseases/12233-acne
Kraft J, et al. (2011). Management of acne. DOI:
10.1503/cmaj.090374
Liu K, et al. (2019). Adult acne: Understanding underlying causes and banishing breakouts.
health.harvard.edu/blog/adult-acne-understanding-underlying-causes-and-banishing-breakouts-2019092117816
Mayo Clinic Staff. (2020). Acne treatments: Medical procedures may help clear skin.
mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/acne/in-depth/acne-treatments/art-20045892
Mayo Clinic Staff. (2020). Acne.
mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/acne/diagnosis-treatment/drc-20368048

Share this article

Medically reviewed by Sara Perkins, MD — By Scott Frothingham on September 4, 2020

Cortisone Injections | Schwarz Dermatology PLLC

Cortisone is a chemical produced by the body to counter inflammation. Cortisone produced by the body is short-acting, and has only a temporary impact on inflammation, so is not very effective in helping to heal acne cysts or nodules. Cortisone injections, however, use highly concentrated cortisone, so are more effective in immediately reducing redness and inflammation, and providing long-lasting results. Although cortisone is a steroid, it is not an anabolic steroid, which is commonly used to increase strength and muscle size, and known to have harmful side effects.

Cortisone injections are used to treat severe and sustained deep-tissue acne. Severe acne may include cysts or nodules that develop on the face or other areas. Nodules are large, painful, solid lesions lodged deep within the skin. Cysts are deep, painful, pus-filled lesions. They are often difficult to clear up with common acne treatments such as topical medications. Deep-tissue acne can be painful and last for months. If left untreated, it can cause permanent scarring. Cortisone injections provide fast and effective relief.

Benefits of Cortisone Injections

Acne
Injected cortisone penetrates more deeply than just the top layer of skin, making it much more effective than topical solutions in treating cystic acne infection, and preventing scars from forming.
Scars
Treatment with cortisone injections improves the look of keloid and hypertrophic scars that have formed as a result of acne. Keloid scars are overgrown areas of scar tissue that form at the site of a previous injury such as an incision, wound or pimple. Hypertrophic scars are red, raised scars filled with excessive amounts of collagen. Cortisone injections make these types of scars less noticeable by reducing their redness and inflammation.

The Cortisone Injection Procedure

When used to treat acne, cortisone is injected directly into the affected area, where it starts to reduce inflammation right away. Healing of deep-tissue acne begins immediately after injection. The cortisone injection itself can hurt when placed into an already painful cyst or nodule. In those cases, a local anesthetic may be applied to numb the skin before giving the injection.

Multiple treatments of the same area are not needed because cortisone produces results immediately.

Side Effects of Cortisone Injections

The side effects of cortisone injections are minimal. The most common side effect, atrophy of the fatty tissue around the injection site that results in a slight depression in the skin, is temporary. In some cases, skin takes several months to return to normal. Immediately following an injection, the skin may swell slightly, but this quickly goes away. In dark-skinned people, a small white spot may appear at the injection site, but this, too, disappears soon afterward. There is almost no risk of allergic reaction because cortisone is naturally produced by the body.

Cortisone injections for cystic acne and nodules are performed in a doctor’s office.

Additional Resources

MedlinePlus
National Institutes of Health
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development
U.S. Department of Health & Human Services
U.S. National Library of Medicine
WebMD

Do cortisone injections work for acne? – Drink-Drink

11.07.2022 DrinkDrinkAdmin

Contents

Are cortisone injections effective for cystic acne?
Are there any side effects of cortisone injections for cystic acne?
How often can I get cortisone injections for cystic acne?
What is cystic acne?
What causes cystic acne?
What other treatments are available for cystic acne?
Conclusion

To reduce the inflammation, swelling, and pain of cystic acne, a dermatologist may inject a diluted corticosteroid directly into the cyst.

This treatment is usually reserved for painful, swollen acne nodules or cysts that do not respond to typical acne treatments. It can be very effective in shrinking nodes and cysts.

While a dermatologist may refer to treatment as an intralesional corticosteroid injection, it is commonly known as a cortisone or steroid injection or cortisone injection.

Read on to learn more about the benefits and side effects of these injections.

Are cortisone injections effective for cystic acne?

A cortisone shot is an injection of a synthetic hormone. It is used for short-term relief of inflammation and reduction of large cysts. Injections can be used both on the face and on the body.

An injection given directly into a cyst or acne nodule usually contains a small amount of a steroid such as triamcinolone (Kenalog), a powerful anti-inflammatory agent.

Cysts and nodules may resolve on their own within a few weeks. An injection of steroids can reduce swelling, redness, and pain within a few days.

Are there any side effects of cortisone injections for cystic acne?

Although this procedure can be quick and effective, there may be side effects. This includes:

The appearance or thinning of the skin at the injection site. This can lead to visible depression where the cyst was. These depressions are often temporary and go away on their own. Otherwise, your dermatologist may recommend dermal fillers.
Hypopigmentation, an area of skin that is lighter than usual, or a white spot. It often goes away on its own with time.
Systemic effects of the steroid. This can be caused by more than the limit being injected and absorbed into the bloodstream.

How often can I get cortisone injections for cystic acne?

You can have several injections in one session, with each injection directed to a different area. Between injections in the same place should take about 6 weeks.

These injections are for the intermittent treatment of certain cysts and nodules. This should not be a regular part of your acne treatment or skin care regimen.

What is cystic acne?

Cystic acne is considered the most severe form of acne.

Pimples usually appear as:

pimples
whiteheads
comedones
papules
pustules

Acne usually occurs when your skin pores become clogged with dead skin cells and sebum. . Bacteria such as () are also often involved.

Sometimes clogged pores break deep under the skin, forming large, tender, painful bumps known as cysts (pus-filled bumps) or nodules (inflamed bumps). These beats can last for several weeks or longer.

What causes cystic acne?

Cystic acne, like other acne, is caused by the interaction of a number of different factors:

Hormones. Testosterone, estrogen and androgen are associated with cystic acne.
Genetics. If one of your parents has cystic acne, you are more likely to develop it.
Environment. High humidity, excessive sweating, make-up, lotions and cleansers can cause cystic acne.
Certain drugs and chemicals. Lithium, corticosteroids, isoniazid and phenytoin are associated with cystic acne.

What other treatments are available for cystic acne?

Other treatments your dermatologist can discuss with you include:

isotretinoin
antibiotics (tetracycline)
topical retinoids (adapalene, tazarotene)
spironolactone
oral contraceptives (for women)

Conclusion

Although cortisone injections are not intended for routine acne treatment, they can be very effective for cystic acne.

If you have large, red, painful bumps deep under your skin that don’t form heads, you may have cystic acne. Consult a board-certified dermatologist about recommended treatments, including cortisone injections.

Also check with your insurance company for coverage. Some policies may classify cortisone injections as a cosmetic procedure and may not cover them.

Health

Cortisone injection. Deep acne express

January 14, 2020

Cortisone injection. Deep Acne Express

Read about all current iHerb promotions and promo codes HERE

There are situations when you have a big, red, terrible cystic pimple in the most visible place, and you need to get rid of it within 1-2 days. And waiting a week for it to pass by itself is not an option at all. In this case, a hormonal injection of cortisone will help you.
Corticosteroids are capable of being independently produced in the body of a healthy person, namely, in the adrenal glands. As you might guess, they are usually referred to as hormones, more precisely, to catabolics, which have the function of suppressing inflammatory processes. Cortisone injections are given under local anesthesia with microneedles at the site of acne. Cortisone is especially effective in fighting painful rashes and cysts (internal pimples-bumps).
So, the first thing you should do is make an appointment with a specialist, formerly it was dermatologists, now a similar procedure is available in many beauty salons. Cortisone works quickly against inflammation, removing pimples, preventing the formation of scar tissue and acne scars. The effect of cortisone to deflate acne occurs 24-48 hours after administration. Once it is injected, the pimples will appear smooth and soft.
Note that the effectiveness of this remedy will be preserved only when you do not violate the established rules for use: you can make a mistake during the injection, which can also lead to some serious consequences cortisone on 3 injections made in one year)

Wash your face with a complete cleansing cycle at least twice a day. Or more often, especially if you play sports.

Be sure to use SPF 30 sunscreen every day.

Avoid touching your face to avoid transferring new bacteria from your hands.

After Cortisol:
Mild Cleansing
CERAMEDX VERY Mild Cleanser, 177 ml
A creamy daily cleanser specially formulated to cleanse dry and sensitive skin. Contains exclusive Riceramide-3 technology plus rich, soothing emollients and hyaluronic acid to help restore moisture and support skin’s natural protective barrier. The unique formula gently removes dirt and impurities without soap base or surfactants that can dry or irritate the skin. Ideal for normal to dry and sensitive skin, promoting healthy skin renewal.

Moisturizer
PACIFICA, COCONUT PROBIOTIC, TECHNOLOGY WATER REHAB CREAM (29 ML)
Revitalizing cream with probiotic complex and moisturizing ingredients

ANNEMARIE BORLIND, ZZ SENSITIVE, FIRMING FACE GEL, 1 50 ml
Firming. Calming. Refreshing.
For sensitive skin.
Deeply hydrates the skin and prepares it perfectly for subsequent day or night care. Golden Orchid leaves skin feeling fresh and relaxed.

Sunscreen
SOME BY MI, TRUECICA MINERAL 100 SOOTHING SUN CREAM, SPF 50+ PA++++
SPF50+ PA++++ sunscreen, 85% essence, glides on skin like a lotion.