Targeted Solutions for Cystic Acne and Keloid Scars
Inflammatory skin conditions like cystic acne and raised scarring often require more than over-the-counter treatments.
At Elegance Aesthetics in Roland Park, MD, we offer cortisone injections as a quick, effective option for reducing inflammation, flattening keloid scars, and relieving painful acne lesions.This medically guided treatment is performed in-office by licensed professionals and is designed to deliver visible relief in as little as 24 hours.
How Cortisone Helps Heal Inflammation, Acne, and Raised Scarring
Inflammation is the body’s natural defense mechanism, but when it becomes excessive, it can damage the skin and leave lasting marks. Cystic acne and keloid scars are two common examples of this response. These conditions often do not improve with surface-level treatments alone.
Cortisone injections are used to address inflammation at its source. This treatment offers rapid relief for active breakouts while also reducing the thickness and discomfort associated with raised scars. For clients whose skin concerns haven’t responded to facials, serums, or medication, cortisone injections present a precise and medically supported alternative.
Cortisone and Skin Treatments
Cortisone is a synthetic corticosteroid that mimics hormones produced naturally by the adrenal glands. In medical settings, it’s used to reduce inflammation and immune system overactivity. In cosmetic dermatology, cortisone injections are utilized to treat inflamed acne cysts and raised scars by calming the underlying tissue response.
Administered in small, controlled doses, cortisone is injected directly into the affected area. This localized approach ensures that the medication targets only the inflamed or scarred tissue—without affecting surrounding skin. The result is faster healing, less discomfort, and reduced scarring potential.
Cortisone injections are a recognized dermatologic tool for managing skin issues that are difficult to treat with topical methods alone.
How Cortisone Injections Reduce Acne and Scar Tissue
Cortisone injections work by decreasing inflammation, slowing collagen overproduction, and accelerating the body’s ability to repair damaged skin. When introduced into a swollen acne cyst or dense keloid scar, cortisone reduces immune cell activity, which leads to:
- Decreased redness and swelling
- Relief from pain or tenderness
- A smaller, flatter appearance of the lesion or scar
- Improved skin texture over time
For cystic acne, this may mean visible shrinking within a few days. For keloids, the process is slower and typically involves multiple treatments spaced weeks apart.
Since cortisone is introduced directly into the target area, systemic side effects are uncommon. This makes it a reliable, low-risk option when performed by trained professionals.
Fast Relief for Deep, Painful Breakouts
Cystic acne is a deeper, more severe form of acne that can be both painful and persistent. It forms below the skin’s surface and is often resistant to standard creams or washes. These breakouts can last for weeks and often lead to post-inflammatory discoloration or permanent scarring.
Cortisone injections offer a fast-acting way to manage these flare-ups. By reducing swelling and redness quickly, they help shorten the lifespan of the breakout and prevent tissue damage that might otherwise lead to scarring.
Most clients notice visible improvement within 24 to 72 hours. The discomfort diminishes, the lesion begins to shrink, and the healing process accelerates. While cortisone is not a cure for acne, it plays a valuable role in managing difficult or recurring cysts when used as part of a broader treatment plan.
Smoother Skin After Injury, Acne, or Piercings
Keloid scars are a type of raised, thickened scar that occurs when the skin produces excess collagen after an injury. Common causes include acne, surgical incisions, piercings, or cuts. Unlike typical scars, keloids grow beyond the boundaries of the original wound and often feel firm or rubbery.
These scars are not dangerous but may cause cosmetic or physical discomfort. In some cases, they can itch, feel tender, or continue to grow.
Cortisone injections are one of the most effective non-surgical options for flattening and softening keloid scars. The steroid works by breaking down excess collagen and reducing inflammation within the scar tissue. Over time, this leads to:
- A smoother, less prominent appearance
- Softer scar texture
- Decreased itching or sensitivity
Multiple sessions are usually needed to achieve full results. Injections are spaced several weeks apart and carefully monitored to ensure optimal improvement without affecting the surrounding skin.
What Happens During Your Cortisone Injection Appointment at Elegance Aesthetics, Rowland Park
Consultation & Evaluation
Every appointment begins with a thorough consultation at our Roland Park location. Your provider will assess your skin, review your medical history, and determine whether cortisone injections are appropriate for your concerns. You’ll have the opportunity to ask questions and understand the realistic outcomes of treatment.
The Injection Procedure
The injection itself is a quick and straightforward process:
- Cleansing and Prep: The treatment area is cleaned, and a topical anesthetic is applied to reduce any discomfort.
- Injection: A small amount of diluted cortisone is injected directly into the inflamed cyst or raised scar using a fine-gauge needle.
- Observation: The site is gently cleaned again, and post-treatment care is discussed.
The entire visit typically takes less than 30 minutes. Most clients experience little to no discomfort beyond a slight pinch or pressure.
Aftercare and Follow-Up
Cortisone injections require minimal aftercare. However, your provider will offer detailed instructions tailored to your treatment. You may be scheduled for a follow-up visit if treating a keloid or if the acne lesion requires reassessment.
Caring for Your Skin After a Cortisone Injection in Rowland Park, MD
Post-treatment care is simple but important. To support healing and avoid irritation:
- Avoid touching or picking at the injection site
- Do not apply makeup or exfoliating products for at least 24 hours
- Use a mild, non-comedogenic cleanser
- Apply SPF 30 or higher daily to protect healing skin
- Avoid high heat and heavy sweating for the rest of the day
- Stay hydrated and moisturize with a gentle, fragrance-free product
Some clients may experience mild tenderness or temporary discoloration at the injection site. These effects typically resolve quickly.
Your provider will monitor for rare side effects such as skin thinning or lightening, which are uncommon when appropriate dosing is used.
Is Cortisone Right for Your Skin?
Cortisone injections are suitable for many people, but a proper evaluation is essential. You may be a candidate if:
- You experience deep, inflamed acne lesions
- You have raised keloid scars that are itchy or prominent
- You are generally healthy and not currently pregnant or breastfeeding
- You do not have an active skin infection at the treatment site
While cortisone is effective, it’s not meant to replace a long-term acne or scar treatment plan. Instead, it is used to manage specific flare-ups or visible scars as part of a broader skincare strategy.
Why Choose Elegance Aesthetics in Rowland Park, MD
At Elegance Aesthetics in Roland Park, your treatment is administered by experienced, licensed professionals who specialize in skin health and medical aesthetics. We understand the importance of both precision and caution when working with injectable medications.
Clients choose our clinic for cortisone injections because we offer:
- Safe, clinical-grade treatments
- A detailed consultation process with honest recommendations
- Expert dosing to avoid overcorrection
- Gentle injection technique with minimal discomfort
- Follow-up care and integration with other treatments when appropriate
We prioritize outcomes that not only improve how your skin looks but also how it feels and how you feel living in it.
Book Your Cortisone Injection Appointment in Roland Park
You don’t have to wait weeks for stubborn breakouts or keloid scars to improve on their own. With cortisone injections at Elegance Aesthetics, you can experience fast relief and visible improvement—without downtime or guesswork.
Contact us today to schedule a consultation in Roland Park. Our team will assess your skin and recommend a personalized treatment plan tailored to your needs.
Cortisone Injection FAQs
How quickly do cortisone injections reduce cystic acne swelling?
Cortisone injections for cystic acne typically reduce swelling within 24 to 72 hours, relieving pain and promoting faster healing.
Are cortisone injections for acne painful?
The injection is brief and causes minimal discomfort. A numbing cream is applied before the cortisone acne treatment to ensure comfort.
How often can I get cortisone injections for breakouts?
Cortisone injections for acne are best used occasionally. Your provider will space treatments appropriately to minimize side effects.
Do cortisone injections remove keloid scars permanently?
They reduce thickness and flatten the scar, but some keloids may require ongoing treatment for maintenance.
What are the risks of cortisone injections for acne?
When performed by trained professionals, risks are low. Rare side effects include skin thinning or lightening at the injection site.
Is a cortisone injection the same as a steroid shot?
Yes, cortisone is a corticosteroid. In dermatology, small doses are used to safely treat localized inflammation.
Can cortisone injections be combined with other treatments?
Yes, they often complement facials, microneedling, or medical skincare. Your provider will tailor the approach to your needs.
Are cortisone injections safe for all skin tones?
Yes, cortisone injections are safe for all skin types and tones when performed by experienced providers using proper technique.
