To reduce the inflammation, swelling, and pain ofcystic 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 andcysts。

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 ofinflammationand 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 astriamcinolone(Kenalog), a powerful anti-inflammatory.

Cysts and nodules may take weeks to resolve on their own. Asteroid injectioncan 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变薄的skinat 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 recommenddermal 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 orskin care regimen。

Cystic acne is considered to be the most severe form ofacne。

Typically, acne appears as:

Acne is usually caused by your skin’s pores becoming clogged with dead skin cells andoil。细菌,如Propionibacterium acnes(P. acnes), is also often involved.

Sometimes aclogged porebreaks 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 otheracne, 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:

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

If you have large, red,痛苦的疙瘩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.