Medically reviewed by Alan Lucks | MD, Alan Lucks MDPC Private Practice - New York on January 31st, 2026.
Cortisone shots provide rapid relief for deep, painful cystic acne
Treatment can significantly reduce inflammation within 24-48 hours
Minimizes potential for permanent acne scarring
Best performed by a professional dermatologist
Cystic acne represents one of the most challenging skin conditions, creating deep, painful nodules that can persist for weeks or even months. Unlike typical surface-level pimples, these inflammatory lesions penetrate deep beneath the skin, often causing significant discomfort and potential long-term scarring. Acne treatments have evolved significantly, with cortisone injections emerging as a powerful intervention for severe breakouts.
The complexity of cystic acne lies in its formation process. When oil, bacteria, and dead skin cells become trapped deep within hair follicles, they create large, inflamed nodules that resist standard topical treatments. Fungal acne and traditional acne differ in their underlying mechanisms, but cystic acne remains particularly challenging to manage.
Cortisone injections work by delivering a potent anti-inflammatory medication directly into the cystic lesion. Typically using triamcinolone acetonide, this synthetic corticosteroid rapidly suppresses the inflammatory response responsible for the cyst's size and pain. The injection targets specific inflammatory cells, effectively shutting down the cascade of inflammatory mediators that sustain the cystic lesion.
During the procedure, a dermatologist carefully examines the cystic lesion and prepares the treatment area. Using a fine needle, they inject a carefully measured amount of diluted cortisone directly into the cyst's center. Itchy skin and inflammation can be significantly reduced through this precise intervention.
The injection typically takes only seconds, with patients experiencing a brief pinch followed by slight pressure. Most individuals can expect noticeable improvement within 24 to 72 hours, with the cyst flattening and associated redness dramatically reducing.
Treatment Aspect |
Cortisone Injection |
Topical Treatments |
|---|---|---|
Speed of Relief |
24-48 hours |
2-4 weeks |
Invasion Level |
Minimally Invasive |
Non-Invasive |
Effectiveness for Cystic Acne |
High |
Low to Moderate |
Risk of Scarring |
Low |
Moderate to High |
The primary advantages include rapid inflammation reduction and minimized scarring risk. Acne scars can be challenging to address, making prevention crucial. However, potential side effects include temporary skin depression or lightening at the injection site.
While highly effective, cortisone injections are not suitable for everyone. Patients with certain skin conditions, active infections, or poor wound healing may not be ideal candidates. The treatment works best for individual, isolated cystic lesions rather than widespread acne.
Most patients describe the injection as a quick pinch with minimal discomfort.
Typically, improvement is seen within 24-72 hours, with full resolution in 3-5 days.
Dermatologists usually recommend spacing out treatments to prevent skin damage.
Oral medications, topical treatments, and alternative acne management strategies exist.
Coverage varies, so check with your specific insurance provider.
Cortisone shots offer a powerful, targeted approach to managing severe cystic acne. While not a universal solution, they provide significant relief for those struggling with persistent, painful breakouts.
Ready to meet your AI doctor? Get started with Doctronic today.
Cystic acne represents one of the most challenging skin conditions, creating deep, painful nodules that can persist for weeks or even months. Unlike typical surface-level [...]
Read More
