Cortisone injections are a terrific option for those who want an acne lesion to disappear quickly. Cortisone injections contain a low concentration of an anti-inflammatory medication called Triamcinolone, which is a steroid medication, (a type of cortisone.) It is injected right into the acne lesion while it is flaring. Over the next 24-48 hours, the anti inflammatory effects of Triamcinolone take effect and the acne lesion will flatten out. Most inflammatory acne lesions can be treated with a cortisone injection. Most patients have no side effects with cortisone injections, but rarely atrophy of the skin (a depressed area or “divet” in the skin) can occur. The risk of atrophy is increased with higher concentrations of the steroid . For this reason, Clear Clinic only uses diluted concentrations of triamcinolone. Cortisone Injections do not work for blackheads and whiteheads- for these types of pimples we recommend acne surgery which can be performed by our providers. If you have multiple blocked pores, we recommend Isolaz laser treatment or medical extractions by our Estheticians.
Cortisone injections are a safe choice for all ages
Both adults and teenagers can benefit from cortisone injections to reduce their active acne. Cortisone injections use a diluted formulation of a medication called triamcinolone. This medication is injected directly into the acne papule (or pimple) to decrease the inflammation and flatten out the pimple. Teenagers often request cortisone injections before a big event, such as a high school dance or senior photos. Adult acne can strike at incredibly inopportune times. And for some adults it can be just as embarrassing as when teenagers are hit with a pimple. While teens can suffer from taunting and teasing from their peers, adults with acne may not be seen as authoritative or hygienic if they have acne. For adults, the best quick fix for acne is a cortisone injection into an inflammatory papule (aka “pimple”) is the most effective method of getting rid of acne quickly. The medication injected into the pimple is anti-inflammatory and usually flattens it out within 48 hours.
Acne Spot Treatments vs. Cortisone Injections
Over the counter (OTC) spot treatments are an effective way to target just one pimple, as opposed to your entire face. They are generally applied in the evening, before going to sleep and are a good alternative for patients who are unable to come into the office for a cortisone injection for acne. Topical spot treatments do not work as quickly or as well as cortisone injections, but they absolutely play a role in acne treatment. The best OTC spot treatments contain benzoyl peroxide (to kill the P. acnes bacteria), salicylic acid (to unclog the blocked pore), or sulfur (to exfoliate dead skin that is clogging the pore and decrease oiliness.)
Don’t Pick or Pop Your Pimple!
If you’re one of those types of people that is prone to picking or popping your pimples, cortisone injections are the perfect answer. Picking and popping acne leads to increased inflammation, which in turn means a greater risk of scarring. The increased inflammation can also mean a pimple that sticks around way longer than invited. Instead of picking, visit Clear Clinic for a quick cortisone injection, which flattens acne in 24-48 hours.
