A cortisone shot for acne, technically known as an intralesional corticosteroid injection, is a targeted medical procedure used to reduce the inflammation of severe, deep acne lesions, specifically cysts or nodules. These painful, swollen blemishes can persist for weeks and often lead to permanent scarring, which the injection helps to prevent by rapidly shrinking the lesion. The anti-inflammatory medication works directly within the lesion to calm the immune response that causes the redness and swelling.
Medical Professionals Who Administer the Treatment
The most qualified professional to administer an intralesional corticosteroid injection is a Board-Certified Dermatologist. These specialists possess the precise knowledge of skin anatomy and pathology required to perform the procedure safely and effectively. They are best equipped to determine the correct concentration and volume of the medication needed for a specific lesion, which is crucial for minimizing side effects.
Other licensed healthcare providers, such as Physician Assistants or Nurse Practitioners, may also perform the injections. These mid-level providers typically operate under the direct supervision of a dermatologist, especially within a dermatology clinic setting. Seeking out a dermatology-focused practice is highly recommended due to their routine experience with acne injections.
The Consultation Process and Treatment Criteria
A consultation begins with the provider assessing the type and severity of the acne lesion to confirm it meets the criteria for injection. Cortisone shots are specifically reserved for large, painful, deep-seated lesions like cystic or nodular acne that have not responded to typical topical or oral medications. The goal is to provide rapid relief and prevent the tissue destruction that can lead to permanent scarring.
The procedure involves injecting a highly diluted corticosteroid solution, most commonly triamcinolone acetonide, directly into the inflamed lesion. The concentration used is typically low to localize the anti-inflammatory effect and prevent systemic side effects. Using a very fine needle, the provider injects a small volume into the middle of the lesion, which may cause a brief, stinging sensation. The localized delivery of the medication suppresses the inflammatory cells within the blemish, quickly reducing swelling and pain.
Understanding Costs and Insurance Coverage
The cost of a cortisone shot for acne can vary significantly based on location, the provider’s billing practices, and the patient’s insurance status. The total price is often split between a facility or office visit fee and the cost of the procedure itself. Uninsured patients or those with high deductibles may pay anywhere from $50 to over $100 per injection, with the overall visit cost being higher.
The procedure is considered medically necessary, especially when treating painful, deep lesions that risk scarring. When deemed medically necessary, the treatment is typically covered by health insurance, provided the provider is in-network. In these cases, a patient’s out-of-pocket cost may be limited to a co-pay for the office visit and a smaller co-pay for the injection itself, often falling into the $20 to $50 range per shot.
It is advisable to contact your insurance provider before the appointment to confirm coverage for intralesional corticosteroid injections and understand any associated costs. Billing for these injections is distinct from cosmetic procedures, so verifying that the visit will be processed under a medical claim is an important financial consideration.
Immediate Aftercare and Results Timeline
Following the injection, patients may notice temporary slight bleeding or a small bump at the injection site, which can be addressed with gentle compression. Patients should avoid touching, picking, or applying harsh cleansers or exfoliants to the treated area for the remainder of the day. It is recommended to wait a few hours before applying makeup to allow the skin to settle.
The anti-inflammatory effects of the corticosteroid are rapid, with a noticeable reduction in the lesion’s size, redness, and pain typically occurring within 24 to 48 hours. The treated cyst or nodule should continue to flatten over the next few days, leading to complete resolution within a week.
There is a small risk of temporary localized side effects, such as a depression or thinning of the skin, known as atrophy, at the injection site. Another potential side effect is hypopigmentation, which appears as a temporary lightening of the skin color in the treated area. Both atrophy and hypopigmentation are temporary and resolve on their own, though it can take several months. If the lesion does not show significant improvement or if any side effects are concerning, a follow-up appointment with the provider is recommended.