Cortisone Shots · Dermatologist · Cosmetic, Laser Dermatology NYC

Corticosteroid Injections

A corticosteroid injection, also known as a cortisone shot, is utilized to reduce swelling, inflammation, and itching to the affected area. It can also be used to shrink overly thickened collagen, as is seen with hypertrophic scars or keloids. Improvement may be noted as early as a few hours after the injection. Full efficacy should be noted within two to three days, and the benefits may last for several weeks. However, results do vary from person to person and on the condition treated. You may only need one shot, or you may require a series of shots over time, depending on the condition treated.

Conditions Treated With Corticosteroid Injections

• Acne
• Psoriasis
• Dermatitis
• Alopecia (hair loss)
• Inflamed cysts
• Keloids

Risks of Corticosteroid Injections

Some potential risks that may occur with a cortisone shot include:

• Thinning soft tissue and skin around the site of the injection.
• Skin discoloration, which usually appears as whitening around the site of the injection.

These are both usually temporary phenomena that recover spontaneously over time.

Important Reminder: This information is only intended to provide guidance, not definitive medical advice. Please consult dermatologist NYC about your specific condition. Only a trained, experienced board-certified dermatology doctor or pediatric dermatologist can determine an accurate diagnosis and proper treatment.

Do you have any questions about Cortisone Shots? Would like to schedule an appointment with an internationally recognized, award winning, best NYC dermatologist, Dr. Susan Bard of Manhattan Dermatology Specialists, please contact our Midtown NYC office for a consultation with a cosmetic and laser dermatologist.