Treatment Overview
Intralesional Kenalog Injection is one of the most widely used spot treatments for cystic and nodular acne in Korean dermatology clinics. Kenalog is the brand name for triamcinolone acetonide, a corticosteroid that, when injected directly into inflamed acne lesions, rapidly reduces redness, swelling, and pain.
This treatment works by calming the immune response inside the cyst, shrinking inflammation within 24–72 hours. It is especially popular in Korea as an emergency acne treatment, used by patients who want a cyst to disappear quickly before an important social or professional event.
Unlike oral steroids, Kenalog injections are localized and micro-dosed, minimizing systemic side effects while providing fast and targeted results.
Purpose & Benefits
- Rapid Shrinkage of Cysts: Flattens large, painful nodules within days.
- Anti-Inflammatory Action: Reduces swelling, redness, and tenderness.
- Scar Prevention: Early intervention lowers the risk of deep acne scars.
- Event-Ready Solution: Perfect before weddings, interviews, or photo sessions.
- Precise & Localized: Treats only the cyst, leaving surrounding skin unaffected.
Ideal Candidates
Intralesional Kenalog Injection in Korea is recommended for:
- Patients with cystic or nodular acne.
- Individuals experiencing painful, swollen acne lesions.
- Patients who need fast results before important events.
- Those at risk of acne scarring from deep lesions.
- Individuals with acne not responding to topical or oral medications.
Possible Risks & Complications
When performed correctly, Kenalog injections are safe, but possible side effects include:
- Skin Thinning or Dimpling: Rare, if injected with too high a dose.
- Hypopigmentation: Temporary lightening of skin at the injection site.
- Redness or Tenderness: Usually mild and short-lived.
- Recurrence: Does not prevent new cysts from forming, only treats existing ones.
Korean dermatologists use carefully diluted concentrations to minimize complications.
Surgical Techniques Used
- Micro-Dose Triamcinolone Injection: Delivered directly into the cyst using a fine needle.
- Customized Dilution: Dose adjusted to cyst size and skin thickness.
- Precision Delivery: Localized injection ensures targeted anti-inflammatory effect.
Protocol: One-time injection per lesion; multiple cysts can be treated in a single session.
Recovery & Aftercare
Immediately: Slight redness or pressure at injection site.
24 Hours: Inflammation begins to shrink.
48–72 Hours: Cyst significantly flattens and pain subsides.
Aftercare Tips:
- Do not press or squeeze the treated lesion.
- Use SPF 50+ sunscreen daily to prevent pigmentation.
- Avoid retinoids, scrubs, or acids on the treated spot for 2–3 days.
- Apply soothing, hydrating skincare to aid recovery.
Results & Longevity
- After 1 Injection: Rapid flattening of cyst within 2–3 days.
- Short-Term: Prevents scarring of treated lesions.
- Long-Term: Does not stop future acne; often combined with sebum-control therapies (e.g., RF, peels, PDT) for prevention.
Treatment Process in Korea
Consultation & Skin Check
Dermatologist evaluates acne severity and suitability for injection.
Preparation
Gentle cleansing; numbing cream rarely needed due to fine needle use.
Kenalog Injection Session
- Step 1: Diluted triamcinolone solution prepared.
- Step 2: Ultra-fine needle injects medication directly into cyst.
- Step 3: Cooling pack or soothing ointment applied.
Duration: 5–10 minutes (quick procedure).
Post-Treatment Care
Minimal downtime; patients can return to daily activities immediately.
Follow-Up
Injections repeated only if new cysts appear.
Unique Korean Advantages
- Precise Dilution Protocols: Safe dosing prevents dimpling or thinning.
- Emergency Acne Care: Offered as same-day treatment for urgent cystic acne.
- Combination Packages: Often paired with LED therapy, acne drips, or Aqua Peel.
- Event-Ready Approach: Common among patients needing fast relief before major occasions.
Cost Range (Estimated)
- Single Kenalog Injection (per lesion): USD 20 – 50
- Multiple Lesions (same session): USD 50 – 120
- Injection + LED/Soothing Therapy: USD 80 – 150
Example Korean Packages:
- Standard Spot Treatment: USD 50 – 100
- Acne Care Program (Injection + LED/Extraction): USD 150 – 300
- Premium Program (Injection + Acne Drip + Regenerative Boosters): USD 300 – 500
Popular Clinics in Seoul
- Oracle Dermatology: Intralesional Kenalog injections for urgent cystic acne.
- Banobagi Dermatology: Customized acne injection therapy.
- Renewme Skin Clinic: Kenalog injections paired with LED healing sessions.
- View Dermatology: Multi-step acne care programs with Kenalog injections.
- Chaum Anti-Aging Center: Premium spot injection treatments with boosters.
