Intralesional Steroid Injections

Skin conditions such as keloids, scars, acne, cysts, psoriasis, alopecia, lichen planus, and more can affect both men and women of any age. Sometimes, they are uncomfortable, painful, itchy, embarrassing, or unsightly. Fortunately, intralesional steroid injections are a great procedure to help minimize the look and feel of these conditions. 

What Are Intralesional Steroid Injections?

Intralesional steroid injections (ILS) are used to treat a number of skin diseases, including alopecia areata, keloids, hypertrophic scars, acne, cysts, psoriasis, epidermal inclusion cysts, lichen planus, cicatricial alopecias, and more. 

The main goal of treatment is to improve the look of the skin and reduce symptoms associated with the skin disease, such as pain or itching. Steroid injections are often more helpful than topical therapy, as they are targeted directly into the problem area, making a great impact on the look and feel of the skin condition. 

Who is a Good Candidate for Intralesional Steroid Injections?

Many individuals have skin diseases that reach the deeper layers of the skin, preventing penetration of treatment creams and ointments. In these cases, intralesional steroid injections can be an effective option. Ideal candidates will be overall healthy with a positive outlook regarding the outcome of their treatment. Be sure to tell your specialist if you have allergies to steroids prior to treatment. 

What to Expect During Intralesional Steroid Injection Treatment?

Before treatment, the skin is cleansed with an alcohol swab. A steroid solution will then be injected directly into the skin or immediately below the targeted area using a small syringe. Depending on the size of the treatment area, multiple injections may be necessary. After injections, a small dressing may then be placed over the treated area.

Patients may return every 3-4 weeks to receive more injections. Your dermatology specialist will decide when treatment is completed, depending on your skin condition symptoms.

Intralesional Steroid Injections

Intralesional Steroid Injection Recovery

Following intralesional steroid injections, patients may experience mild discomfort or small spots of bleeding. Rarely, hypopigmentation (lightening) and thinning of the skin (atrophy) may occur. There is little to no downtime required, so patients can return to everyday activities as soon as they feel comfortable. Your dermatology specialist will provide you with specific instructions on how to best look after the treated site. Please do not hesitate to contact our office if you have any questions or concerns regarding post-treatment side effects.

Schedule a Consultation 

Are you unhappy with the look or feel of a skin condition, and want real results? If this sounds like you, intralesional steroid injections may be helpful. The providers at HMGS Dermatology administer intralesional steroid injections safely and effectively. Our team of dermatology specialists has the skills and knowledge necessary to provide you with exceptional care.

Contact our office today to schedule a consultation appointment, during which our team will examine your skin condition and speak with you regarding possible treatment options that fit your lifestyle and budget.