Cortisone injections were introduced in dermatologic therapy in 1961. They have been used extensively since then to treat various skin conditions (1). Acne cysts are one of the most prevalent disorders treated with cortisone shots. Acne is a pretty common condition that affects up to 80 % of adolescents (2). It can have a negative impact on the mental health of the individual as it leaves behind unsightly scars and pigmentation, leading to immense psychological distress (3), (4). It has also been found that anxiety and depression are more common in patients with acne (5), (6), (7). Cortisone shots can be given to the patient in the early stages to prevent unsightly scarring and discoloration. In this article, we have discussed all about cortisone shots for acne treatment. Keep reading to find out more! In dermatology, the most commonly used cortisone preparation is triamcinolone acetonide. These injections are a standard mode of treatment for many skin diseases like keloids, acne, and alopecia areata (10). Cortisone injections deliver steroids directly into skin lesions. The cortisone is deposited in the skin to be delivered over a period, resulting in prolonged therapy while minimizing the adverse effects of systemic therapy. This treatment is extremely effective, easy to perform, and relatively safe.
When And Where To Get A Cortisone Shot?
Cortisone shots are given to provide rapid relief from nodulocystic acne – an advanced stage of acne characterized by multiple cysts, nodules, and scars (11). You can also get them if you want to treat a single painful acne cyst quickly. Always get your steroid shot from a certified dermatologist as only they are skilled enough to inject the medication in the proper manner and dosage. No special preparation is required for this procedure. It is done at the clinic and can take 5 to 15 minutes. You need to inform your doctor if you have any allergies or are on any blood-thinning medication, such as aspirin or warfarin, as they can increase the chances of bruising at the site of injection. A dressing might be placed over the area, which can be removed after a few hours.
What Is The Mechanism Of Action Of Cortisone Shots?
An acne cyst is a nidus of pus and inflammatory cells accompanied by extensive inflammation. Cortisone injections are given to curb this inflammation. They decrease the inflammatory cells at the site of the lesion. When the inflammation goes down, so does the pain and the size of the cyst (12).
Are Cortisone Shots For Everyone?
Cortisone shots can be taken by anyone who wants to get rid of a cyst quickly. However, avoid getting multiple injections in a single sitting in case of extensive lesions. These shots can be taken by everyone, including pregnant and lactating women. They can be taken by people of any age, though the pain and fear of needles may be a deterrent for children. These injections should be avoided by anyone who is allergic to triamcinolone acetonide. Avoid injecting sites where there is a fungal or viral infection on or around the lesion.
What Are The Benefits Of Treating Acne With Cortisone Shots?
Cortisone shots offer more benefits than other medications. Firstly, when topical medications fail, these injections penetrate deep into your skin and treat deep-seated conditions. Secondly, oral medication may have some general side effects on your body. Injecting the medicine at the site of the lesion keeps it confined in that area. Thirdly, they treat acne more quickly, saving your skin from scars and pigmentation. But, the big question remains…
Are There Any Side Effects Of Cortisone Shots?
When these steroids are not injected in a proper manner or in the correct dosage, it can lead to certain side effects: • It may cause thinning of skin (known as atrophy), leading to a slight indentation at the site of injection. • It may cause hypopigmentation, i.e., lightening of skin at the site of injection. • It may cause telangiectasia, i.e., the blood vessels around the site of injection may become more visible than normal (13). • In very rare cases, it may cause an allergic reaction if the patient is allergic to any of the components of the injection. Keep in mind that any atrophic scars or hypopigmentation caused by cortisone injections are fairly permanent and very difficult to get rid of. Therefore, it is imperative that you get these shots from a dermatologist who knows how to dilute the steroids in the proper concentration and inject them at the proper site of the lesion.
Cortisone Shots – After-Care
Once you get your shot, you don’t need to do much except just wait for the zit to subside. Your doctor may prescribe an antibiotic cream that you need to apply for a few days. Avoid touching the lesion and don’t apply any other cream apart from what your doctor has prescribed.
How Much Do Cortisone Shots Cost?
A cortisone shot can range from anywhere between $25 to $100 per sitting. This includes the cost of the medication and syringe. However, your doctor may quote a different price based on their expertise and experience.
Cortisone Shots At Home
We would strictly advise you not to attempt to give yourself a cortisone shot at home. Always get procedures done by a dermatologist who has the proper knowledge and skill to perform such procedures. Also, only a dermatologist can assess your lesions and make an informed decision on the course of action that needs to be followed. As mentioned above, if the injections are not injected in the correct dosage or the precise place, they can lead to atrophy of the skin and/or hypopigmentation. Therefore, always make it a point to consult a dermatologist. When used cautiously, cortisone injections are a simple and fairly safe procedure that is an integral part of dermatology. The procedure does not require a lot of time and can be done in minutes. It does not cost much and can help you get rid of huge, painful pimples in a matter of a few hours to a few days while preventing unsightly scars and pigmentation. Whether you get pimples occasionally and want a quick fix or are experiencing a more advanced stage of acne, like nodulocystic acne, cortisone shots could be the key to gaining freedom from those zits. Can I wash my face after a cortisone injection? The doctor will cleanse your skin and may cover the injected area for protection. If you have any questions about aftercare following a cortisone shot, ask your doctor as they can give you some tips based on your skin type. Where is the most painful place to get a cortisone shot? The palms and soles of the feet are the most painful places to get cortisone shots. Does cortisone cause weight gain? Cortisone may affect your metabolism rate, which may result in weight gain. Does a cortisone shot hurt afterwards? You may feel discomfort or tenderness in the injected area for about a day or two, but the discomfort will subside. Do cortisone shots cause hair loss? While hair loss is a side effect of some steroidal treatments, cortisone shots usually stimulate hair regrowth and are used to treat alopecia areata. Does cortisone stay in your body forever? The effects of cortisone shots last for about 2 months if the right skin care routine and aftercare tips are followed. Can a cortisone shot affect your heart? High doses of cortisone may cause heart issues like heart arrhythmia. Is cortisone a steroid? Yes. Corticosteroids, like cortisone, are known as anti-inflammatory steroids. Do cortisone injections weaken the immune system? Yes, cortisone may weaken the immune system.
