The Cortisone Pimple Injection: Your Fast-Track to Clear Skin

monami yoneda
2 days ago
10 min read

Learn about cortisone pimple injection as a treatment option for certain types of inflammatory acne lesions. Results and timeframes vary significantly among individuals.This guide provides general information about the procedure. A qualified medical practitioner should evaluate whether this treatment is appropriate for your specific condition.

What Is a Cortisone Pimple Injection

A cortisone pimple injection is a in-office treatment performed by a doctor for large, inflamed acne lesions. Often called a "steroid shot" or "acne injection," this procedure is considered an targeted treatment option for severe blemishes that arise before important events or cause significant discomfort.

Understanding the Intralesional Cortisone Shot

The technical term for this procedure is an "intralesional corticosteroid injection." "Intralesional" means the medication is delivered directly into the acne lesion itself. A very small needle is used to inject a diluted synthetic corticosteroid, most commonly triamcinolone, into the core of the pimple. This is a targeted anti-inflammatory treatment designed for individual problematic blemishes; it is a targeted anti-inflammatory treatment designed for a single, problematic blemish.

How It Fights Inflammation Fast

Corticosteroids are powerful anti-inflammatory agents. When injected into a pimple, the medication immediately begins to counteract the body's inflammatory response. It works by constricting the blood vessels in the area, which reduces redness and swelling. The steroid also calms the overactive immune cells that are causing the pimple to be painful and swollen. This localized treatment approach may provide relatively quick response in some cases, though treatment outcomes vary significantly among individuals.

What Types of Pimples Can Be Injected

Cortisone shots are not suitable for all types of acne. They are specifically reserved for the most severe, inflammatory forms of acne that are deep within the skin. This treatment is ineffective for non-inflammatory acne like blackheads, whiteheads, or small pustules.

Cystic Acne

Cystic acne consists of large, soft, fluid-filled lumps that form deep beneath the skin's surface. These lesions are often extremely painful and can linger for weeks or months. Because they are so deep, topical treatments are usually ineffective. A cortisone injection delivers anti-inflammatory medication directly into the lesion and is intended to target inflammation, though individual outcomes vary.

Nodular Acne

Nodules are similar to cysts in that they are large, painful, and deep-seated. However, unlike cysts, nodules are hard, solid lumps that do not typically contain pus. They feel like firm knots under the skin. Nodular acne is also highly inflammatory and may respond to the targeted anti-inflammatory effects of a cortisone injection, which may help to soften the lesion and reduce its size and tenderness.

The Pimple Injection Procedure Step-by-Step

What to Expect During Your Doctor Visit

A visit for a cortisone shot is typically very quick and straightforward. The entire process often takes less than 15 minutes from start to finish. Here is what you can generally expect:

Consultation: Your doctor will first examine the blemish to confirm it is an appropriate candidate for an intralesional injection, such as a large, inflamed cyst or nodule.
Preparation: The skin over and around the pimple will be thoroughly cleansed with a sterile alcohol wipe to prevent infection.
The Injection: Using a very fine-gauge needle, the doctor will inject a small amount of a diluted corticosteroid, like replace “Kenalog” with “triamcinolone (a corticosteroid preparation approved for use in Singapore where applicable), directly into the core of the pimple. The amount is carefully measured to be effective without increasing the risk of side effects.
Post-Injection: After the needle is withdrawn, the doctor may apply gentle pressure to the area. A small bandage is sometimes placed over the site, but it's often not necessary.

Does the Injection Hurt

For most people, discomfort is typically minimal and brief during the procedure. The needle used is extremely thin, and patients often describe the sensation as a quick pinch or a brief sting, similar to a bug bite. The discomfort from the injection is typically far less than the throbbing, persistent pain of the deep, inflamed cyst itself. No topical anesthetic is usually needed due to how quickly the procedure is performed.

How Quickly Will You See Results

Treatment response varies among individuals, with some patients experiencing improvement over several days. During this time, the injected corticosteroid works to rapidly calm inflammation. You will notice the pimple becoming smaller, less red, and less swollen. The blemish will continue to flatten and heal over the next few days, providing relief from painful inflammatory acne lesions or simply to end the discomfort of a painful breakout.

Major Benefits of Getting a Pimple Injection

May be considered as a treatment option for inflammatory acne lesions. The benefits go beyond just cosmetic improvement, offering quick relief and which may help in maintaining the overall condition of your skin. Here are the primary advantages of this targeted treatment.

Potential Effects on Pimple Size and Redness

The primary benefit of a cortisone shot is its speed. The anti-inflammatory properties of the diluted corticosteroid get to work almost immediately. Some individuals may experience changes within several days, though results vary and are not guaranteed, though the timeframe varies and is not guaranteed, although the timeframe can vary and is not guaranteed in the size, swelling, and redness of the treated blemish. The large, angry bump begins to flatten and become significantly less noticeable, making this an useful treatment option for severe inflammatory acne.

Immediate Relief from Pain and Discomfort

Deep cystic and nodular acne can be intensely painful. The pressure from the inflammation can cause a constant throbbing or sharp pain, especially when you move your face. May help alleviate pain and discomfort relatively quickly, the cortisone injection alleviates the underlying pressure. This may provide relief from the tenderness and discomfort associated with these severe types of acne lesions.

Considerations Regarding Post-Inflammatory Changes and Scarring Risk

A major risk with large, inflamed acne lesions is the potential for long-term skin damage. The intense inflammation can destroy collagen, leading to pitted or atrophic acne scars. It can also trigger an overproduction of melanin, causing persistent dark spots known as post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH). Treatment focuses on reducing current inflammation in the affected area. It also may reduce the likelihood of manipulating the lesion, a habit that is a primary cause of skin trauma and permanent scarring.

Potential Risks and Side Effects to Consider

While a cortisone shot is a procedure that may be effective when properly administered, it's essential to be aware of the potential side effects. These risks are significantly minimized when the injection is administered by a qualified doctor using the correct dosage and technique.

Skin Depression or Pitting at the Injection Site

The most common side effect of a pimple injection is a small depression or divot in the skin where the needle was inserted. This occurs if the corticosteroid causes too much thinning of the underlying fat tissue. Recovery time varies among individuals. In some cases, additional treatment may be considered. Consult your doctor for individual assessment. The risk increases if the steroid solution is too concentrated or injected too close to the skin's surface.

Hypopigmentation or Skin Lightening

Some individuals may notice a small, light-colored spot developing at the injection site. This is known as hypopigmentation. The steroid can temporarily interfere with the skin's melanin-producing cells, causing a localized loss of pigment. This effect is more apparent in individuals with darker skin tones. Skin color changes may occur and persistence varies among individuals. Consult your doctor for proper evaluation.

Understanding the Risk of Skin Atrophy

Skin atrophy is the medical term for the thinning of skin tissue, and it is the underlying cause of both pitting and hypopigmentation. The corticosteroid works by reducing inflammation, but it can also break down local collagen and subcutaneous fat. When administered correctly, this effect is controlled and minimal. However, an improper injection can lead to more noticeable thinning. Skin atrophy is a potential complication that may occur. Discuss all risks and benefits with your qualified healthcare provider, but it underscores the importance of seeking treatment from an experienced medical professional who understands the precise dosage and depth required for safe, effective results.

Alternatives to Cortisone Injections

While a cortisone injection is a powerful tool for an acne emergency, it's not a long-term solution. For managing acne and treating less severe blemishes, several effective alternatives are available, ranging from over-the-counter products to other professional procedures.

Over-the-Counter Spot Treatments That May Be Helpful

For individual pimples that aren't severely inflamed or cystic, at-home spot treatments can be very effective. These products use active ingredients to target bacteria, reduce inflammation, and unclog pores.

Benzoyl Peroxide: This is a powerful antibacterial agent that may help reduce the growth of P. acnes bacteria responsible for breakouts. It is available in various strengths, typically from 2.5% to 10%.
Salicylic Acid: As a beta-hydroxy acid (BHA), salicylic acid exfoliates the skin and penetrates into pores to dissolve oil and dead skin cells. It helps reduce inflammation and prevent future clogs.
Sulfur: A gentler option, sulfur helps to dry out the surface of a pimple and absorb excess sebum. It's often combined with other ingredients in spot treatments and masks.
Adapalene: A type of retinoid (like Differin Gel) now available over the counter. It regulates skin cell turnover to prevent pores from becoming clogged in the first place, making it both a treatment and a preventative measure.
Hydrocolloid Patches: These small, adhesive bandages are placed directly over a pimple. They absorb fluid and pus from the blemish, protect it from external bacteria, and prevent you from picking at it, creating an ideal environment for healing.

Other Professional In-Office Acne Treatments

If you need a more potent solution than over-the-counter products can provide but aren't getting a cortisone shot, your doctor has other options.

Incision and Drainage: For a very large, painful cyst or nodule that has come to a head, a doctor may perform an incision and drainage. Using a sterile instrument, the doctor makes a small opening in the pimple to drain the pus and relieve pressure. This must only be done by a medical professional to prevent infection and scarring.
Chemical Peels: A doctor can apply a chemical solution—often containing glycolic acid, salicylic acid, or trichloroacetic acid (TCA)—to exfoliate the top layers of skin. This process helps unclog pores, reduce oil production, and improve overall skin texture, making it a good option for managing persistent acne.
Laser and Light Therapy: Various light-based treatments can target acne-causing bacteria. Certain light-based treatments, such as blue light therapy or pulsed-dye lasers, may be used for specific acne-related concerns if approved for such use in Singapore can reduce the redness and inflammation associated with breakouts. These are often performed in a series of sessions for best results.
Prescription Medications: For moderate to severe or persistent acne, a comprehensive treatment plan from a doctor is the best alternative. This may include prescription-strength topical retinoids, topical or oral antibiotics, or oral medications like spironolactone or Prescription medications such as isotretinoin may be considered for severe acne, under strict medical supervision and in accordance with approved indications in Singapore.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can a cortisone shot make a pimple worse?

While uncommon, it is possible for a cortisone injection to have an undesirable outcome. This typically occurs if the injection is administered improperly, the dosage is too high, or the lesion is not a true inflammatory cyst. The primary risks are not a worsening of the pimple itself but the development of side effects like a temporary skin depression (atrophy) or lightening of the skin (hypopigmentation) at the injection site. Choosing a board-certified doctor minimizes these risks significantly.

How long does the indentation from a cortisone shot last?

A potential side effect of a pimple injection is skin depression, also known as skin atrophy or pitting. This indentation may be temporary and can resolve on its own within several weeks to months, though individual outcomes vary. The likelihood of this side effect and its duration depends on the concentration of the cortisone used and the patient's individual healing process. In very rare instances, the pitting can be permanent.

Is a pimple injection a long-term solution for acne?

No, a cortisone injection is not a long-term solution for managing acne. It is an emergency spot treatment designed to rapidly reduce inflammation in a single, large, painful cyst or nodule. It does not address the underlying causes of acne, such as bacteria, excess oil production, or hormonal fluctuations. For persistent or widespread acne, a comprehensive treatment plan from a doctor is necessary for long-term control.

How often can you get cortisone shots for acne?

Cortisone shots should be used sparingly and only for occasional, severe inflammatory lesions. There isn't a strict limit, but doctors advise against frequent injections in the same area to avoid an increased risk of side effects like skin atrophy and pigment changes. Most professionals recommend waiting at least four to six weeks before injecting the same spot again. These shots are intended for "emergency" pimples, not as a routine treatment.

Summary

A cortisone pimple injection is a fast-acting, in-office procedure designed to rapidly reduce the inflammation of severe acne lesions. Commonly used for deep, painful blemishes like cystic or nodular acne, this treatment involves injecting a diluted corticosteroid directly into the pimple. It is not a preventative measure or a cure for chronic acne but rather an emergency solution for isolated, troublesome breakouts.

The primary benefit is the noticeable reduction in some cases in size, redness, and pain, often within 24 to 48 hours. Treatment aims to address current inflammation. Discuss potential outcomes and risks with your healthcare provider. And permanent scarring that large pimples often leave behind.

While can be effective for some patients, the procedure is not without risks. Potential side effects include temporary skin depression (pitting) or hypopigmentation (lightening of the skin) at the injection site. These effects are usually temporary but underscore the importance of having the procedure performed by a board-certified doctor who can use the correct dilution and technique.

In short, a cortisone shot is an effective treatment option for rapid improvement before a major event or for potentially alleviating discomfort from a particularly painful blemish. However, it should be used sparingly. A consistent, long-term acne management plan, developed with a doctor and potentially including other treatments, remains the best strategy for achieving and maintaining clear skin.

Please see below for treatment details.

Acne Treatment at KINS Clinic

Note: This article is for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Individual treatment plans should be developed in consultation with qualified healthcare professionals. Treatment outcomes vary from person to person, and no guarantee of results is intended or implied. All professional treatments mentioned should be performed by licensed medical practitioners in Singapore, using HSA-approved or otherwise MOH-approved products, devices, and techniques, as applicable.