Intralesional Steroid Injection
Resurface & Repair
Intralesional corticosteroid injection is a targeted treatment for cystic, nodular, or stubborn inflammatory acne lesions. A diluted corticosteroid is injected directly into the lesion, rapidly reducing inflammation and flattening the cyst — often within 24–48 hours. It is the fastest available treatment for an acute cystic acne flare.
BEFORE
AFTER
How it works
A small amount of diluted triamcinolone acetonide is injected directly into the cystic lesion using a fine needle. The corticosteroid suppresses the local inflammatory response, causing the cyst wall to break down and the lesion to shrink. Results are typically visible within 24–48 hours and can prevent the cyst from developing into a scar.
Who is it for?
Painful cystic or nodular acne that doesn't respond to topical treatment; pre-event spot treatment for a significant lesion; preventing scar formation from a deep inflammatory cyst; patients with recurrent stubborn cystic breakouts.
Who is it not for?
Superficial or comedonal acne (not appropriate for these types); patients with steroid allergy; active skin infection with bacterial spread; pregnancy (discuss with provider).
Session Time
10–15 min
Down Time
None
Results?
24–48 hours
Peak Results
3–5 days
How long does it last?
Single treatment per lesion
How many sessions?
As needed (per lesion)
Build Your Protocol
Your skin has more than one concern. Your protocol should too.
Will the injection leave a scar?
When properly dosed, intralesional steroid injections reduce the risk of scarring from the cyst itself. The injection site heals cleanly. Over-dosing can cause temporary skin depression (atrophy) — which is why dilution and technique are critical.
Can I get this treatment the same day I call?
Often yes — we accommodate urgent acne injection requests when schedule allows. If you have a cystic lesion before a major event, call us as soon as possible.
Is this a long-term acne solution?
No — intralesional injections treat individual lesions acutely. For long-term acne management, we combine this with treatments like HydraFacial, chemical peels, and Potenza, as well as naturopathic approaches addressing underlying hormonal and dietary triggers.