Treatment Overview
Intralesional Steroid Injection in Korea is a medical acne treatment where a diluted corticosteroid (usually triamcinolone acetonide) is injected directly into inflamed acne lesions. This procedure is highly effective for treating large cystic acne, nodules, and painful breakouts on the back, which are often resistant to topical creams or oral medications.
By reducing inflammation quickly, steroid injections help flatten acne lesions, relieve pain, and minimize the risk of permanent scarring. Korean dermatology clinics often use this method alongside oral acne medication, blue light therapy, or acne extraction for comprehensive acne management.
Purpose & Benefits
- Rapid Inflammation Relief: Quickly reduces swelling, redness, and pain.
- Scar Prevention: Minimizes risk of deep acne scars and keloids.
- Effective for Cystic Acne: Works on large, stubborn lesions.
- Quick Results: Acne cysts shrink within 24–72 hours.
- Targeted Treatment: Only injected into problem areas, leaving surrounding skin unaffected.
Ideal Candidates
Intralesional Steroid Injection in Korea is recommended for:
- Patients with cystic or nodular back acne.
- Individuals with painful, inflamed acne lesions.
- Those at risk of developing acne scars or keloids.
- Patients wanting fast relief before special events.
- Individuals combining this with other long-term acne programs.
Possible Risks & Complications
- Temporary Thinning of Skin: If too much steroid is injected.
- Mild Redness or Tenderness: At injection site.
- Hypopigmentation (rare): Light spots may occur in darker skin.
- Overuse Risks: Repeated injections in the same area may weaken skin.
- Not Suitable For: Pregnant women, patients with systemic infections, or those allergic to corticosteroids.
Surgical Techniques Used
Though considered a minor procedure, injections are performed with precision in Korean dermatology clinics:
- Triamcinolone Acetonide Injection: Most commonly used steroid.
- Micro-Dosing Technique: Tiny amounts injected directly into acne cyst.
- Sterile Needle Application: Ensures safety and accuracy.
- Combination Programs: Often paired with blue light, antibiotics, or glutathione drips for acne-prone patients.
- Sessions Required: Usually 1–3 injections per lesion; not a routine therapy but used as needed.
Recovery & Aftercare
- Immediately: Cyst feels less painful; mild redness at injection site.
- 1–3 Days: Acne lesion shrinks significantly.
- 1–2 Weeks: Scar risk reduced; skin gradually heals.
Aftercare Tips:
- Avoid pressing or scratching the treated area.
- Keep back clean and use mild cleansers.
- Apply sunscreen if skin will be sun-exposed.
- Follow dermatologist’s acne routine (topicals or oral meds if prescribed).
Results & Longevity
- Within 24–72 Hours: Noticeable reduction in cyst size and pain.
- After 1–2 Weeks: Lesion heals with lower risk of scarring.
- Longevity: Permanent improvement for injected cysts; new lesions may require additional sessions.
Treatment Process in Korea
Consultation & Skin Analysis
- Dermatologist examines acne type and severity.
- Decision made if lesion is suitable for steroid injection.
Preparation
- Back skin cleansed with antiseptic.
Steroid Injection Session
- Step 1: Small needle used to inject steroid into acne cyst.
- Step 2: Lesion shrinks as inflammation decreases.
- Step 3: Quick procedure, lasting 5–10 minutes.
Post-Treatment Care in Clinic
- Cooling gel applied if needed.
- Aftercare guidelines provided.
Follow-Up
- Usually no downtime required.
- Follow-up visit may be scheduled for stubborn or multiple lesions.
Why Korea is a Top Destination
- Experienced Dermatologists: Skilled in precise micro-dosing for minimal side effects.
- Safe Protocols: Adjusted doses to reduce risks of thinning or pigmentation changes.
- Combination-Oriented: Integrated with blue light, peels, or oral medications for complete acne care.
- Scar Prevention Focus: Korean clinics emphasize early treatment to prevent keloids and hypertrophic scars.
- Global Recognition: Korea is highly regarded for acne and scar management expertise.
Cost Range (Estimated)
- Single Steroid Injection (1 Lesion): USD 30 – 60
- Multiple Lesions (Back Area): USD 80 – 200
- Package (Combined Acne Programs): USD 300 – 800 (with blue light, extraction, or peels)
Additional Costs:
- Consultation: USD 20 – 50
- Add-ons (Blue light, laser, peels, glutathione drip): USD 100 – 400 per session
- Premium Acne Packages (Steroid + multi-therapy): USD 1,000 – 2,000
Popular Clinics
- Oracle Dermatology: Intralesional steroid injections with acne programs.
- Banobagi Plastic Surgery: Scar-prevention acne injection treatments.
- Renewme Skin Clinic: Steroid injections combined with acne laser therapy.
- View Plastic & Dermatology: Back acne management with injections + light therapy.
- Chaum Anti-Aging Center: Premium acne care programs with regenerative boosters.
