When is steroid injection recommended for cystic acne?

Cystic acne causes deep, inflamed lumps beneath the skin. A dermatologist can place a small amount of steroid medicine into a selected lesion to reduce swelling and tenderness. This focused option may be useful when one lesion needs to settle quickly or when squeezing it would increase tissue injury. It is not a cure for acne across the face or body and does not remove the factors that create new spots.

The clinician will distinguish cystic acne from infection, an inflamed cyst and other lumps before injecting. Treatment choice depends on the lesion, its site, your skin type, previous treatment and your risk of marks. A treatment plan for ongoing acne may include topical or oral medicine as well.

Arrange a medical review for deep painful lumps, repeated breakouts or acne that is leaving dents or dark marks. Do not pop, pierce or inject the lesion yourself. Tell your clinician about medicines, allergies, pregnancy or plans for pregnancy, and previous reactions to steroid treatment. After an injection, avoid rubbing the area and follow the advice given. A small indentation, lighter patch or temporary soreness can occur.

Seek prompt care if redness spreads quickly, pain becomes severe, the area feels hot, pus is increasing or you develop fever. Urgent help is needed for facial swelling, breathing difficulty or a severe reaction after treatment. Arrange follow-up if the lump keeps enlarging, returns repeatedly or leaves a firm scar.

Ask whether the lump is definitely cystic acne, what benefit the injection is expected to provide, and how acne elsewhere will be controlled. Ask about the chance of a temporary dip or colour change, whether another treatment is safer for your skin, and when the lesion should be reassessed.