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Cortisone Acne Steroid Injections in Singapore: Comprehensive Guide on Benefits, Side Effects & FAQs

A close-up image of a healthcare provider administering a cortisone steroid injection to treat acne on a patient’s skin.

Struggling with persistent cystic or nodular acne can be both painful and frustrating, especially when conventional treatments fall short. In Singapore, cortisone steroid injections offer an option for targeted relief by reducing inflammation directly within the acne lesion. This specialized treatment, particularly effective for hard-to-treat acne, is one of the important choices for those seeking professional options to manage severe breakouts.


Contents

What Are Cortisone Steroid Injections for Acne?

Cortisone steroid injections are a treatment option for inflamed and cystic acne, where a small amount of a corticosteroid is injected directly into the acne lesion. This treatment helps to reduce inflammation and decrease the size of the cyst. Cortisone injections can be particularly useful for stubborn, large, or painful acne lesions that may not respond well to topical treatments. Although it’s not a cure for acne, cortisone injections are commonly used for quick relief from severe and persistent breakouts.


Who Can Benefit from Cortisone Injections for Acne?

An illustration showing different types of acne, highlighting cystic and nodular acne as suitable for cortisone steroid injections in Singapore.

Cortisone injections are generally recommended for people dealing with specific types of severe acne, such as cystic acne and nodular acne. These types of acne are often painful, deeply embedded in the skin, and can lead to scarring if left untreated. Individuals with one or a few isolated cystic lesions can particularly benefit from this treatment. It’s important to note that cortisone injections are usually reserved for severe cases and may not be recommended for regular use on mild or moderate acne.


Understanding the Causes of Cystic Acne Treated by Cortisone Injections


 Close-up of cystic acne on a patient’s skin, which is one of the types suitable for cortisone steroid injection treatment in Singapore.

Cystic acne, which is a common target for cortisone injections, typically forms due to a combination of factors such as excess oil production, bacteria, inflammation, and hormonal imbalances. Hormonal changes, such as those occurring during puberty, menstruation, or times of high stress, can increase oil production and lead to clogged pores. These blocked pores can then become inflamed, resulting in the formation of painful cysts deep beneath the skin’s surface.


How Do Cortisone Injections Work for Acne Treatment?

Cortisone injections work by delivering a corticosteroid directly into the acne lesion, which helps to quickly reduce inflammation and swelling. The corticosteroid used in the injection acts to suppress the body’s immune response in the targeted area, which can lead to a noticeable reduction in size and discomfort. However, cortisone injections are not intended to treat acne as a whole but to address isolated, severe breakouts.


Key Benefits of Cortisone Acne Steroid Injections in Singapore

One key benefit of cortisone injections for acne is the rapid reduction of inflammation, often visible within a day or two. This treatment can provide relief from painful cystic or nodular acne and help to minimize the risk of scarring associated with these severe forms of acne. Additionally, cortisone injections are convenient and can be administered in a short office visit, making them a popular choice for patients seeking prompt relief.


Possible Side Effects of Cortisone Injections for Acne

While cortisone injections can be effective for treating cystic acne, they are not without potential side effects. Common side effects may include skin thinning or lightening at the injection site, as well as temporary redness or mild pain. In rare cases, patients may experience a slight indentation in the skin, which usually resolves over time. Due to these risks, it is essential to consult doctors to assess the suitability of this treatment.


What to Expect During a Cortisone Injection Treatment in Singapore

During a cortisone injection treatment, the doctor will cleanse the area and use a fine needle to inject a small amount of corticosteroid into the acne lesion. The process is relatively quick, usually taking only a few minutes. Most patients experience minimal discomfort, and anesthetics are typically not needed. After the injection, some patients may experience slight redness or tenderness in the treated area, which generally subsides shortly.


Step-by-Step Guide to the Cortisone Injection Process for Acne

The cortisone injection process typically involves the following steps:

  1. Consultation: A doctor will assess the severity of the acne and determine if a cortisone injection is appropriate.

  2. Preparation: The injection site is cleansed to prevent infection.

  3. Injection: A small dose of corticosteroid is carefully injected into the lesion.

  4. Aftercare Advice: The patient is advised on post-injection care to support healing and minimize side effects.


Typical Duration of a Cortisone Acne Injection Session

A cortisone injection session for acne is generally quick, typically taking 10 to 15 minutes, including preparation. The actual injection takes only a few seconds, making it a convenient option for patients looking for fast treatment.


When to Expect Results from Cortisone Acne Injections

Results from a cortisone injection for acne can often be observed within 24 to 48 hours, as inflammation and swelling start to diminish. The lesion typically continues to decrease in size over the following days. However, individual results can vary, and patients should consult with their healthcare provider for personalized expectations.


Cost of Cortisone Steroid Injections for Acne in Singapore

The cost of cortisone injections for acne in Singapore varies depending on the clinic, the size of the lesion, and the specific treatment plan. Generally, the price is around SGD 150 per injection. Patients are encouraged to consult with your doctors to understand the cost of your treatments.


FAQs on Cortisone Acne Steroid Injections in Singapore

  • Q: Are cortisone injections painful?

    A: Most patients report minimal discomfort during the injection, as the needle used is very fine. Any slight pain at the injection site typically subsides quickly.

     

  • Q: How long do the effects of a cortisone injection last?

    A: The reduction in inflammation is often noticeable within a day or two, and the treated lesion usually continues to improve over a few days. The effects of a single injection are usually sufficient for isolated lesions, but additional treatments are not typically required unless new lesions appear.

     

  • Q: Can I use cortisone injections for mild acne?

    A: Cortisone injections are typically reserved for more severe forms of acne, such as cystic or nodular acne. Mild or moderate acne is usually treated with topical or oral medications.


  • Q: Are there before-and-after photos available to show the effects of cortisone steroid injections for acne?

    A: Due to regulations by the Ministry of Health (MOH) in Singapore, before-and-after photos of treatments, including cortisone steroid injections for acne, cannot be displayed on our website. However, during a consultation with the doctor, you may have the opportunity to view these images to help you better understand the potential outcomes of the treatment.




Conclusion

Choosing the right treatment for stubborn acne can feel overwhelming, but our clinic in Singapore is dedicated to offering safe, effective options like cortisone steroid injections for cystic and nodular acne.


At our clinic, we offer various options such as injectable procedures, laser therapies, facial treatments and prescription medications. If you're interested in our specialized acne treatments, please visit our acne treatment page.




This blog post was medically reviewed by Yutaka Shimokawa.


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