Cortisone injections for acne are really effective especially for treating nodules and cysts, cortisone acts as an anti-inflammatory substance and hastens the healing process. This article provides some information on the same.
Cortisol, a naturally-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 those affected by 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 a part of acne treatment and can’t do much to prevent the re-occurrence of the same. Nowadays, one also gets cortisone cream for acne. It is said to be 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 this skin problem. This also causes inflammation in the area and sometimes pigmentation occurs. Also, people with cystic acne get nodules and cysts which are painful and can cause permanent scarring.
Lot of people are affected by 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 this skin condition, none seem to work really fast. In such cases, cortisone injections are the best remedy. Synthetically-manufactured cortisone is believed to have 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 of the affected people require more than one shot. It is believed to be one of the best treatments when it comes to dealing with severe acne problems.
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. One can check with the dermatologist if he/she wishes to get a cortisone shot.
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 the 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 of the affected people who receive cortisone injections.
Since, the injection is administered subcutaneously there is a slight chance that one 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 treatment options for people who have severe and recurring acne. They are directly injected in the affected area to treat papules, nodules, and cysts.
Disclaimer: This BeautiSecrets article is for informative purposes only, and should not be used as a replacement for expert medical advice.
