Intralesional Steroid Injection Singapore

This treatment approach may be recommended for several specific skin conditions that benefit from direct steroid application.

Keloid scars: These are raised, thick scars that extend beyond the original injury site and can be itchy or uncomfortable.

Hypertrophic scars: Raised, thick scars that remain within the original wound but are prominent and noticeable.

Cystic acne or inflamed cysts: Large, painful, deep spots that don’t respond well to topical treatments and may take weeks to resolve naturally.

Alopecia areata: Patchy hair loss where the immune system mistakenly attacks hair follicles, causing smooth, round bald spots.

Nodular prurigo: Raised, scaly eczema itchy bumps that haven’t improved with topical treatments alone.

The most commonly used steroid for intralesional injection, available in different concentrations to suit various skin conditions. Higher concentrations may be used for thicker, more resistant or treatment naive lesions.

Lower concentration mixtures are often used for delicate areas such as the face or for patients who may be more sensitive to steroid treatments.

For larger areas or extensive scarring, several small injections are placed across the treatment zone to ensure even distribution of medication.

Smaller lesions such as individual cystic spots or small scars typically require only one carefully placed injection.

Keep the area clean and dry: Gently cleanse the injection site with mild soap and water, avoiding scrubbing or harsh products for 24-48 hours after treatment.

Apply cold compress if needed: A cool, damp cloth can be applied for 10-15 minutes if you experience any swelling or discomfort immediately following injection.

Avoid touching or rubbing: Resist the urge to touch, scratch, or massage the treated area, as this may interfere with the medication’s distribution and increase irritation risk.

First few days: Some redness, mild swelling, or tenderness at the injection site is normal and typically resolves within 2-3 days of treatment.

One to two weeks: Initial improvements in symptoms such as itching or tenderness often become noticeable during this period, though visible changes may take longer.

Four to six weeks: Most patients begin to see visible improvements in scar flattening, lesion reduction, or skin texture during this timeframe following treatment.

Two months: Full treatment benefits are typically apparent by this point, helping your dermatologist assess whether additional sessions would be beneficial.

Scheduled review appointments: Your dermatologist will arrange follow-up consultations to monitor your progress. They will determine if additional treatments are needed which are typically spaced 4-12 weeks apart to allow proper healing and assessment between sessions.