Cortisone acne shots work quickly. Within 24 hours, you’ll notice treated blemishes softening, shrinking, and flattening. While they may not completely disappear, they will invariably be smaller and better able to heal themselves within a week.
This article looks at how cortisone acne shots are given, who they are appropriate for, their benefits and side effects, and treatments that can help prevent future breakouts.
Who May Benefit From Acne Cortisone Shots
Cortisone shots don’t work on your run-of-the-mill pimples, nor do they reduce the build-up of pus in the swollen pustules.
Instead, they are reserved for large and/or deep acne nodules or cysts and work by shrinking tissues.
You may want to ask your dermatologist about cortisone injections if:
You’ve had a massive, inflamed pimple for months that won’t healYour blemish is a more recent issue but is incredibly swollen and painfulYou have an important event coming up (like a wedding) and just developed a breakout
Corticosteroid injections can also be used to shrink hypertrophic and keloid scars.
How Cortisone Shots for Acne Are Given
The healthcare provider injects a very diluted corticosteroid directly into the blemish.
The needle used for intralesional cortisone injections is much smaller than what is used for vaccinations or blood draw. Called a micro-needle, it is barely larger than an acupuncture needle and is designed to enter the skin with minimal pain.
Discomfort during the injection typically only occurs if the pimple is very large and painful. To reduce pain, your dermatologist may numb the area with topical lidocaine before getting started.
The procedure is relatively quick and is done at a dermatologist’s office.
Benefits of Cortisone Acne Shots
Cortisone shots provide a treatment option for acne that may be otherwise resistant to other solutions. They can be used on both the face and the body.
As cortisone’s effects can be apparent within a day of an injection, the treatment can improve skin fast (which may be especially helpful if you have an upcoming event that you want to look your best for).
Cortisone injections also reduce the chance of scarring, which is especially valuable if you’re prone to hyperpigmentation (darkening skin) after a breakout.
Cortisone injections along with comedone extraction (the removal of blackheads) does not alter the course of your condition, but can significantly improve your skin’s appearance.
Risks of Cortisone Shots for Acne
Cortisone acne shots may sound like a magic wand when it comes to healing big blemishes quickly. But this procedure can cause side effects, such as:
Pitting of the skin: Too much cortisone or too strong a solution can leave a visible depression around the injection site. It usually goes away on its own but some may be permanent. Hypopigmentation (loss of color): Cortisone shots can sometimes leave a lighter spot on the skin, especially in Black and brown people. This usually resolves on its own over time.
Daily Acne Treatments
Cortisone injections help big breakouts heal up quickly, but they can’t stop breakouts from occurring. For that, you’ll need to use a daily acne treatment medication.
If you have acne that is severe or recurs regularly, you’ll likely need prescription acne medications to get rid of it. For big blemishes, over-the-counter products just don’t have enough strength.
Your dermatologist will prescribe a treatment that is best for your skin. Options include:
Salicylic acid Topical retinoids Antibiotics Isotretinoin (for severe cases)
Summary
Cortisone injections aren’t meant to be a regular acne treatment, but they can help clear up large blemishes. The needles are extremely thin and the procedure is often painless.
Acne shots can help clear up large pimples that won’t heal on their own or are extremely painful. You may see improvement as early as a day after treatment.
Side effects may include temporary pitting and lightening skin.
