What Is a Cortisone Acne Injection?
Cortisone acne injections (also known as intralesional corticosteroid injections) are a specialized treatment that contains cortisone, a type of steroid hormone.
This hormone is naturally produced by the body’s adrenal gland in response to stress.
In Singapore, this treatment is commonly referred to as acne steroid shots, cystic acne injections, or cortisone jabs.
When used for acne treatment, a diluted corticosteroid solution is injected directly into large cystic acne lesions.
This approach delivers anti-inflammatory medication right to the source of the problem.
The cortisone’s powerful anti-inflammatory properties help reduce the swelling of the acne walls, decrease inflammation, and flatten the acne breakout.
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The primary mechanism of cortisone injections is reducing inflammation by suppressing the body’s immune response in the targeted area.
When injected into an acne lesion, cortisone quickly diminishes swelling, redness, and discomfort, providing immediate relief and preventing further damage to the skin.
By targeting the root cause of acne inflammation, cortisone injections effectively shrink the size of the lesion and can prevent scarring.
The process begins working almost immediately after injection. During the next 12-24 hours, the acne starts to soften, shrink, flatten, and look less red than before.
The acne becomes noticeably smaller and less painful, with most lesions healing completely within a week after treatment.
Read more: The Ultimate Guide to Acne Removal in Singapore
The Procedure: What to Expect
The cortisone injection procedure is relatively simple and quick:
- Consultation: A doctor will assess the severity of your acne and determine if a cortisone injection is appropriate for your condition.
- Preparation: The injection site is thoroughly cleansed to prevent infection.
- Injection: A very fine micro-needle is used to inject a small dose of diluted corticosteroid directly into the acne lesion.
- Aftercare: You’ll receive advice on post-injection care to support healing and minimize side effects.
The entire process typically takes only 10-15 minutes, including preparation time. The actual injection takes just a few seconds, making it a convenient option for those seeking fast treatment.
Is it painful? Most patients describe the sensation as similar to “an ant bite” or “a little pinch.”
The procedure is generally very tolerable and completed in seconds. For added comfort, especially for severe or large cystic acne or if the acne is in a sensitive location, the area may be numbed before treatment.
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When Should You Get Cortisone Injections for Acne?
The ideal time to get a cortisone injection is within the first 3 days of a cystic acne forming.
Early intervention helps stop the acne from growing larger due to inflammation, which significantly decreases the chances of acne scarring.
That said, cortisone injections can still be effective for cystic acne that has persisted for longer than 3 days, though the results may take longer to become visible.
Cortisone injections are particularly beneficial in these scenarios:
- When dealing with painful, deep cystic acne
- Before important social events when you need quick results
- To prevent potential scarring from severe breakouts
- For isolated problematic lesions that haven’t responded to other treatments
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Types of Acne That Can Be Treated with Cortisone Injections
It’s important to understand that cortisone injections are not suitable for all types of acne. They are primarily effective for:
- Cystic acne: Deep, painful bumps beneath the skin’s surface
- Nodular acne: Large, solid, painful lumps beneath the skin
- Other inflammatory acne blemishes on both face and body
Cortisone injections do not work on non-inflammatory acne such as:
Additionally, while cortisone reduces inflammation, it does not remove pus. This is why doctors may drain the pus from your acne before administering a cortisone injection.
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Benefits of Cortisone Acne Injections
The primary benefits of cortisone acne injections include:
- Rapid Results: Unlike many acne treatments that take weeks to show improvement, cortisone injections often produce visible results within 24-48 hours.
- Pain Relief: Cystic acne can be extremely painful. Cortisone injections quickly reduce inflammation, providing significant pain relief.
- Minimized Scarring Risk: By quickly reducing inflammation and helping the skin heal faster, cortisone injections decrease the likelihood of permanent acne scarring.
- Targeted Treatment: Cortisone injections precisely target problematic areas without affecting surrounding skin.
This treatment is especially valuable for individuals prone to scarring or developing hyperpigmentation, as it helps reduce these risks by resolving the inflammation quickly before permanent damage occurs.
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Possible Side Effects and Risks
While cortisone injections are generally considered safe and effective for treating cystic or nodular acne, there are potential side effects to be aware of:
- Skin Depressions/Atrophy: When a high dosage of cortisone is used, it can result in skin atrophy around the injection area, leaving a depression. This occurs if too much cortisone or too strong a dilution is used. It’s important to note that depressions can also be caused by the acne itself.
Cortisone-related depressions usually take up to 6 months to disappear, while atrophic depressed scars caused by the acne itself may become permanent.
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- Localized Skin Lightening (Hypopigmentation): Cortisone shots can sometimes leave a lighter area of skin, especially for patients with darker complexions. This is usually temporary and fades away over time.
As the dosage of cortisone in an acne injection is relatively low, it is very rare for side effects typically associated with high-dosage cortisone to occur. However, you should seek immediate medical attention if you experience anaphylaxis or have an allergic reaction (i.e., hives, difficulty breathing, swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat).
Comparing Cortisone Injections to Other Acne Treatments
Cortisone injections offer unique advantages over other acne treatments, particularly for large cystic acne.
They provide rapid relief and can be especially useful for acne that appears suddenly before important social events.
The pain and discomfort associated with such acne can be effectively relieved with cortisone injections.
However, it’s crucial to understand that cortisone injections are not a comprehensive acne solution.
They cannot prevent new acne from forming and are not meant as a regular acne treatment. Instead, they should be viewed as a “quick-fix” for emergency situations.
For effective long-term acne prevention and management, an integrated treatment plan is necessary. This may include:
- Diet and lifestyle changes
- Topical retinoids
- Chemical peels
- Laser treatments
- Hydrafacial
- Oral medications
- Medical-grade acne facials
- Ablative RF microneedling
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Pros and Cons of Cortisone Acne Injections
To help you make an informed decision, here’s a comprehensive breakdown of the pros and cons:
Pros:
- Quick pain relief and reduction of inflammation, swelling, and redness
- Minimizes the risk of acne scarring
- Targeted treatment with minimal downtime
- Rapid results (usually within 24-48 hours)
Cons:
- Does not prevent new acne from forming
- Not meant to be used as a regular acne treatment
- Prolonged use may cause thinning of the skin and indentation
- Not suitable for all types of acne
- Provides only temporary relief
How Long Do the Effects Last?
The effects of a cortisone acne injection can last for several weeks to months, depending on the individual and the severity of the acne lesion.
Some individuals may require multiple injections or additional treatments for optimal results.
While you can get multiple injections in one session in different areas, it is recommended to wait at least 6 weeks between injections for the same spot.
Cost of Cortisone Acne Injections in Singapore
The cost of cortisone injections for acne in Singapore varies depending on the clinic, the size of the lesion, and the specific treatment plan.
Generally, the price is around SGD 150 per injection.
Who Is a Good Candidate for Cortisone Injections?
Cortisone injections are generally recommended for people dealing with specific types of severe acne, such as cystic acne and nodular acne.
These types of acne are often painful, deeply embedded in the skin, and can lead to scarring if left untreated.
Individuals with one or a few isolated cystic lesions can particularly benefit from this treatment.
It’s important to note that cortisone injections are usually reserved for severe cases and may not be recommended for regular use on mild or moderate acne.
If you’re unsure whether a cortisone injection is suitable for your condition, consult with a dermatologist who can evaluate your specific case and recommend the most appropriate treatment options.
Understanding the Causes of Cystic Acne
Cystic acne, which is commonly treated with cortisone injections, typically forms due to a combination of factors:
- Excess oil production
- Bacteria
- Inflammation
- Hormonal imbalances
Hormonal changes, such as those occurring during puberty, menstruation, or times of high stress, can increase oil production and lead to clogged pores.
These blocked pores can then become inflamed, resulting in the formation of painful cysts deep beneath the skin’s surface.
Comprehensive FAQs About Cortisone Acne Injections
Are cortisone injections painful?
Most patients report minimal discomfort during the injection, as the needle used is very fine. Many describe it as an ant bite or a little pinch.
Any slight pain at the injection site typically subsides quickly.
For particularly sensitive areas or very large cysts, numbing may be applied beforehand.
How soon can I see results from cortisone injections?
Results from a cortisone injection for acne can often be observed within 24 to 48 hours, as inflammation and swelling start to diminish.
The acne lesion typically continues to decrease in size over the following days, with complete healing usually occurring within a week after treatment.
Can cortisone injections cause scarring?
Cortisone injections actually help prevent scarring when used properly. However, if too high a concentration is used, they can cause temporary skin depressions.
It’s important to note that many depressions or scars are caused by the severe acne itself, not the injection treatment.
Can I use makeup after a cortisone injection?
It’s generally recommended to avoid applying makeup directly to the injection site for at least 24 hours after treatment to prevent irritation and allow the area to heal properly.
How many cortisone injections can I get at once?
You can receive multiple injections in different areas during the same session.
However, doctors typically limit the number based on the individual’s needs and tolerance. For the same spot, it’s recommended to wait at least 6 weeks between injections.
Do cortisone injections work for body acne?
Yes, cortisone shots can be used to treat cystic acne on both the face and body. They are effective for any area where cystic acne occurs.
Can teenagers get cortisone injections for acne?
Yes, teenagers with severe cystic acne can benefit from cortisone injections.
However, the treatment should be administered by an experienced dermatologist who can determine appropriate dosing for younger patients.
Will one cortisone injection completely eliminate my acne cyst?
While cortisone injections significantly reduce inflammation and the size of acne cysts, they may not completely eliminate them in all cases.
Some cystic acne may require additional treatments or a combination approach for complete resolution.
What should I do after receiving a cortisone injection?
After receiving a cortisone injection, avoid touching or picking at the treated area. Keep the area clean, avoid applying makeup for 24 hours, and continue with your regular gentle skincare routine.
Avoid excessive sun exposure to the treated area, as it may be more sensitive.
Are there alternatives to cortisone injections for cystic acne?
Yes, alternatives include oral antibiotics, isotretinoin (Accutane), hormonal treatments, chemical peels, laser therapy, and specialized skincare regimens.
For long-term management, a comprehensive approach addressing underlying causes is typically recommended.
Conclusion
Cortisone acne injections offer a powerful solution for individuals struggling with severe cystic or nodular acne, providing rapid relief and helping to prevent potential scarring.
While they are not a comprehensive solution for all acne concerns, they can be an invaluable tool in specific situations.
For effective acne management, it’s best to consult with an experienced dermatologist who can evaluate your specific condition and recommend a personalized treatment plan.
This may include cortisone injections for immediate relief of problematic lesions, combined with other approaches for long-term acne prevention and management.
Remember that a holistic approach to acne management—including proper skincare, healthy diet, stress management, and appropriate medical interventions—often yields the best results for clear, healthy skin in the long run.
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