Cortisone injections, also known as corticosteroid injections, are a common treatment in dermatology for a variety of skin conditions. These injections contain a corticosteroid medication, which has strong anti-inflammatory properties. They are used to reduce inflammation, swelling, and other symptoms associated with skin disorders.

Uses of Cortisone Injections in Dermatology

1. Acne

   • Purpose: To reduce inflammation and shrink large, painful cystic acne lesions.
   • Procedure: A small amount of cortisone is injected directly into the acne cyst.
   • Benefits: Rapid reduction in size and pain, often within a few days.

2. Keloids and Hypertrophic Scars

   • Purpose: To flatten and soften raised scars.
   • Procedure: Cortisone is injected into the scar tissue.
   • Benefits: Reduces the size and hardness of scars, and alleviates itching and discomfort.

3. Psoriasis

   • Purpose: To manage localized psoriatic lesions and reduce inflammation.
   • Procedure: Injections are administered into or near the affected area.
   • Benefits: Reduces redness, scaling, and thickness of lesions.

4. Eczema and Dermatitis

   • Purpose: To control severe flare-ups and inflammation.
   • Procedure: Injected into the inflamed areas.
   • Benefits: Decreases itching, redness, and swelling.

5. Alopecia Areata

   • Purpose: To stimulate hair regrowth in areas of hair loss due to autoimmune causes.
   • Procedure: Cortisone is injected into the bald patches on the scalp.
   • Benefits: Promotes hair regrowth by reducing inflammation around hair follicles.

6. Lichen Planus

   • Purpose: To manage inflammation and symptoms of lichen planus.
   • Procedure: Administered into or near the lesions.
   • Benefits: Reduces symptoms like itching and irritation.

Procedure

1. Consultation: An initial assessment by a dermatologist to determine if cortisone injections are appropriate for the condition being treated.
2. Preparation: The injection site is cleaned, and a local anesthetic may be applied to minimize discomfort.
3. Injection: Using a fine needle, cortisone is injected directly into the lesion or affected area.
4. Post-Treatment Care: Patients receive aftercare instructions, which may include avoiding strenuous activities for a short period.

Benefits

• Rapid Relief: Provides quick reduction of inflammation and symptoms.
• Targeted Treatment: Delivers medication directly to the affected area, maximizing efficacy.
• Minimally Invasive: A simple outpatient procedure with minimal downtime.
• reduce excessive scarring by reducing collagen synthesis, altering glucosaminoglycan synthesis, and reducing production of inflammatory mediators and fibroblast proliferation during wound healing

Considerations

• Side Effects: Possible side effects include temporary pain at the injection site, skin thinning, lightening of the skin, and in rare cases, infection or allergic reaction.
• Frequency: Overuse can lead to side effects such as skin thinning and systemic effects. Typically, injections are spaced out over several weeks or months.

Aftercare

• Avoid Strenuous Activity: For at least 24 hours post-injection to allow the medication to settle.
• Monitor for Side Effects: Watch for signs of infection, allergic reactions, or any unusual changes at the injection site.
• Follow-Up: Regular follow-up appointments to monitor the effectiveness and manage any side effects.

Who Can Benefit

• Individuals with Inflammatory Skin Conditions: Those suffering from severe or persistent conditions like cystic acne, keloids, or psoriasis.
• Patients Requiring Quick Symptom Relief: Those needing rapid reduction of inflammation and discomfort.

Consultation

Consulting with a qualified dermatologist is essential to determine if cortisone injections are the right treatment option for your specific skin condition. The dermatologist will assess your condition, discuss the potential benefits and risks, and develop a personalized treatment plan to achieve the best outcomes.