How Cortisone Shots Work
Stopping by your dermatologist’s office for a cortisone shot is the single most effective and safest method of getting rid of a new pimple on your skin. Dr. Schweiger notes that, “At the Clear Clinic, we reserve a number of same-day appointments for patients who need to stop by for a cortisone injection. These patients understand that this is the only method of flattening their pimple within 24-48 hours, without increasing your risk of scarring.”
Cortisone shots work because acne is an inflammatory reaction of the skin to the p. acnes bacteria. Cortisone shots contain a diluted concentration of a cortisone-like medication called triamcinolone, which is anti-inflammatory. By injecting an anti-inflammatory medication directly into an inflammatory reaction, we can obtain a strong anti-inflammatory effect, which flattens pimples on the skin within 24-48 hours for most people.
The injection itself is not painful; we are careful to use the smallest needles possible for this particular medication. After having a cortisone shot, you will not notice any immediate changes on your skin. You may return directly to work or social engagements, and may even apply makeup to cover up the area prior to leaving the office. Most people begin to notice the effects of the cortisone shot by time they wake up the following morning.
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