Treatment Overview
Pimple Injections, also known as acne steroid injections or cortisone shots, are one of the most common fast-acting acne treatments in Korean dermatology clinics. A diluted corticosteroid (usually triamcinolone) is injected directly into inflamed acne lesions such as cysts or nodules.
This targeted treatment rapidly reduces swelling, pain, and redness, making it especially popular in Korea as an “emergency fix” before important events like weddings, interviews, or photoshoots.
Purpose & Benefits
- Rapid Relief: Shrinks inflamed acne within 24–48 hours.
- Scar Prevention: Prevents cysts and nodules from leaving deep scars.
- Pain Reduction: Calms tenderness and pressure in severe pimples.
- Emergency Treatment: Perfect for quick results before social or professional events.
- Localized Action: Treats the specific lesion without affecting surrounding skin.
Ideal Candidates
Pimple injections in Korea are recommended for:
- Patients with painful cystic or nodular acne.
- Individuals who need fast improvement for a single breakout.
- Patients prone to acne scarring.
- Those who have acne that does not respond quickly to topical treatments.
Possible Risks & Complications
When performed by Korean dermatologists, side effects are rare, but may include:
- Temporary Redness: At the injection site, subsides within 24 hours.
- Skin Indentation (Atrophy): Rare, if too much steroid is used.
- Hypopigmentation: Possible in darker skin tones, minimized with low-dose protocols.
- Overuse Risks: Should not be performed too often in the same area.
Surgical Techniques Used
- Diluted Corticosteroid Injection: Usually triamcinolone at 2.5–5 mg/mL.
- Fine Needle Precision: Injected directly into the acne lesion.
- Spot-Treatment Approach: Only the affected lesion is targeted.
- Protocol: One-time injections as needed, not a long-term acne solution.
Recovery & Aftercare
Immediately: Mild redness or tenderness at the injection site.
1–2 Days: Acne lesion shrinks noticeably.
3–5 Days: Cyst or nodule flattens completely.
Aftercare Tips:
- Avoid pressing, squeezing, or picking the treated lesion.
- Apply soothing creams if mild redness occurs.
- Use SPF 50+ daily to prevent pigmentation.
- Limit repeated injections on the same spot.
Results & Longevity
- After 1 Injection: Rapid reduction in swelling and redness within 24–48 hours.
- Short-Term: Lesion flattens and heals within days.
- Long-Term: Does not prevent future acne, but reduces scarring risk for the treated spot.
Treatment Process in Korea
Consultation & Skin Check
Dermatologist identifies if the acne lesion is suitable for injection.
Preparation
Skin is cleansed and disinfected.
Injection Session
- Step 1: Fine needle injects diluted steroid into lesion.
- Step 2: Area immediately begins to calm.
- Step 3: Soothing cream applied.
Duration: 5–10 minutes.
Post-Treatment Care
Patients return to daily life immediately.
Follow-Up
Used as-needed for emergency flare-ups, not for routine acne prevention.
Unique Korean Advantages
- Quick & Accessible: Same-day appointments are common in Seoul clinics.
- Safe Low-Dose Protocols: Korean dermatologists use very diluted steroid concentrations to minimize side effects.
- Combination Programs: Often offered alongside extractions, peels, or lasers.
- Affordable Emergency Option: Low-cost compared to advanced laser therapies.
Cost Range (Estimated)
- Single Pimple Injection: USD 20 – 40
- Multiple Lesions (Small Area): USD 50 – 80
- Pimple Injection + Extraction Combo: USD 100 – 200
Example Korean Packages:
- Spot Injection (per cyst): USD 20–40
- Acne Care Combo (Injection + Extraction): USD 200–300
- Premium Acne Program (Injection + Laser + Peels): USD 500–900
Popular Clinics in Seoul
- Oracle Dermatology: Pimple injections for cystic acne.
- Banobagi Dermatology: Cortisone injection + extraction programs.
- Renewme Skin Clinic: Spot injection with post-care calming masks.
- View Dermatology: Emergency acne treatments with injection + peel.
- Chaum Anti-Aging Center: Premium acne programs with injection and regenerative boosters.
