Cortisone Injections for Acne

Cortisol, a natural occurring hormone produced by the body in the adrenalin gland is converted to cortisone by 11-beta-steroid dehydrogenase. In its natural form cortisone mixes into the blood stream and has no side effects. Cortisone has anti-inflammatory qualities and is used to treat several conditions involving the inflammation of the joints and tendons. Cortisone injections are used by dermatologists to treat patients with severe acne.

Naturally produced cortisone has very short lasting effects, hence synthetically manufactured cortisone is used to treat inflammation. Cortisone shots however are used as part of acne treatment and can't do much to prevent the re-occurrence of acne. Nowadays you also get cortisone cream for acne, it is one of the most effective topical treatments for acne, insect bites, and psoriasis. There are different types of acne but almost all are caused due to the blockage in the sebaceous gland. This is an oil gland and when it gets blocked, bacteria thrives in it and causes acne. This also causes inflammation in the area and sometimes pigmentation occurs. Also people suffering from cystic acne get nodules and cysts which are painful and can cause permanent scarring.

Lot of people suffer from acne and it can affect a person's self-esteem due to its visible effects. Although there are many over the counter products to treat acne, none seem to work really fast. In such cases, cortisone injections are the best remedy. Synthetically manufactured cortisone has long-lasting effects and therefore is used to treat inflammation.

The technical term for this procedure is intralesional corticosteroid injection where a dermatologist uses a very thin needle to inject the steroid in the affected area. Cysts and nodules cause lesions and the steroidal shot helps heal them within a week's time. Dermatologists use dilute solutions of this steroid to avoid atrophy of the skin as some patients require more than one shot. It is one of the best acne treatments when it comes to dealing with severe acne.

Cortisone injections are administered locally on the affected area, they are quick acting. Results can be seen within days as the swelling subsides and the wound starts to heal. Cortisone also accelerates the healing process thereby preventing scarring in the region. Check with your dermatologist if you want to get a cortisone shot. Cortisone injections cost between USD $10 to USD $100, some doctors even offer a package deal if you require more than 3-4 shots.

Side Effects

Cortisone is a steroid but it is administered locally and hence does not have any major side effects. One of the most common side effects is discoloration of skin.

Another painful side effect is known as the 'steroid flare' or cortisone flare. In this condition the injected synthetic cortisone crystallizes in the area causing severe pain. Atrophy which is the degeneration of the skin occurs in some patients who receive cortisone injections.

Since the injection is administered subcutaneously there is a slight chance that you might experience the needle prick pain. People with diabetics or women who are pregnant need to disclose their condition to the doctor before getting a cortisone shot.

Cortisone injections are used as a treatment options for people who have severe and recurring acne. These corticosteroid injections are directly injected in the affected area to treat papules, nodules and cysts.