Treatment Overview
Cortisone injection, also known as an intralesional corticosteroid injection, is a fast-acting acne treatment widely performed in Korean dermatology clinics for cystic or nodular acne. A tiny dose of diluted triamcinolone (a corticosteroid) is injected directly into inflamed acne lesions to quickly reduce swelling, redness, and pain.
This treatment is not designed for long-term acne management but is ideal for emergency situations (e.g., painful breakouts before important events) or for stubborn nodules that do not respond to topical or oral medications. In Korea, cortisone injections are commonly combined with LED therapy, acne drips, or scaling as part of comprehensive acne care programs.
Purpose & Benefits
- Rapid Relief: Shrinks cystic pimples within 24–72 hours.
- Inflammation Control: Reduces redness, swelling, and tenderness.
- Prevents Scarring: Early intervention lowers risk of deep acne scars.
- Emergency Acne Solution: Popular before weddings, interviews, or events.
- Precise Treatment: Targets only the affected lesion without affecting surrounding skin.
Ideal Candidates
Cortisone Injection in Korea is recommended for:
- Patients with cystic or nodular acne (deep, painful breakouts).
- Individuals needing quick results before an event.
- Patients with acne resistant to topical or oral medications.
- Those prone to acne scarring from inflamed nodules.
Possible Risks & Complications
Cortisone injections are safe in small doses, but risks may include:
- Skin Thinning or Dimpling: If injected with too much concentration.
- Temporary Light Spots (Hypopigmentation): Rare, more likely in darker skin tones.
- Recurrence: Does not prevent future cysts; only treats active ones.
In Korea, dermatologists use precisely diluted concentrations to minimize these risks.
Surgical Techniques Used
- Diluted Triamcinolone Injection: Administered directly into the cyst or nodule.
- Tiny Needle Entry: Minimizes pain and marks.
- Customized Dosage: Adjusted based on acne size and depth.
Protocol: Single-session spot treatment; multiple cysts may be treated in one visit.
Recovery & Aftercare
Immediately: Slight redness at injection site.
24 Hours: Inflammation begins to shrink.
48–72 Hours: Cystic lesion significantly reduced or flattened.
Aftercare Tips:
- Avoid squeezing or pressing the injected lesion.
- Apply gentle skincare and sunscreen daily.
- Do not combine with strong exfoliants or retinoids on treated spots for 2–3 days.
Results & Longevity
- After 1 Injection: Rapid flattening of the cyst within 1–3 days.
- Long-Term: Prevents scarring from treated cysts but does not stop new acne from forming.
- Repeat Treatments: May be needed for future flare-ups.
Treatment Process in Korea
Consultation & Skin Analysis
Dermatologist identifies cystic/nodular lesions suitable for injection.
Preparation
Gentle cleansing; sometimes topical numbing cream applied.
Cortisone Injection Session
- Step 1: Diluted corticosteroid drawn into syringe.
- Step 2: Injection administered directly into the lesion.
- Step 3: Soothing ointment or cooling pack applied afterward.
Duration: 5–10 minutes (very quick procedure).
Post-Treatment Care
Patients return to daily activities immediately.
Follow-Up
As needed for new cystic breakouts.
Unique Korean Advantages
- Precise Dilution Techniques: Korean dermatologists carefully adjust dosage to avoid skin thinning.
- Quick Appointments: Often used as an add-on in acne treatment visits.
- Combination Care: Frequently paired with acne drips, LED therapy, or scaling for overall acne management.
- Affordable & Accessible: Commonly offered in dermatology and aesthetic clinics across Seoul.
Cost Range (Estimated)
- Single Cortisone Injection (per lesion): USD 20 – 50
- Multiple Lesions (same session): USD 50 – 120
- Injection + LED Therapy/Soothing Care: USD 80 – 150
Example Korean Packages:
- Standard Acne Spot Treatment: USD 50 – 100
- Acne Care Program (Injection + LED/Scaling): USD 150 – 300
- Premium Program (Injection + Acne Drip + Regenerative Boosters): USD 300 – 500
Popular Clinics in Seoul
- Oracle Dermatology: Fast cystic acne injection treatments.
- Banobagi Dermatology: Emergency acne care with cortisone injections.
- Renewme Skin Clinic: Spot injection + LED therapy packages.
- View Dermatology: Acne care programs with injection add-ons.
- Chaum Anti-Aging Center: Premium acne spot injection services.
