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Can You Use Hydrocortisone on Active Acne?
asked 4 months ago by James in CA in San Jose, CA
Latest answer by Aparna Ambay, MD
Question viewed 291 times
Tags: hydrocortisone, ointment
I am unable to get an appointment with a dermatologist for several months. Would using hydrocortisone on an acne cyst that has been present for several weeks be effective in reducing the cyst size to prevent scarring similar to a cortisone injection?
4 answers to Can You Use Hydrocortisone on Active Acne?
+1
Topical cortisone not for acne or cysts
Cortisone belongs to a class of steroids called corticosteroids that work primarily through their anti-inflammatory effects. This explains why a stubborn acne cyst may be injected with cortisone, albeit infrequently.
Topical hydrocortisone works much higher up in the skin. It is not a treatment for acne or acne cysts. In general, this category of products, especially its higher potency topicals, can carry side effect of skin thinning. As far as an acne cyst is concerned, it lies...
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Aparna Ambay, MD
Tampa Dermatologic Surgeon
Tampa Dermatologic Surgeon
+1
Hydrocortisone and acne
Hydrocortisone helps with redness and irritation--it is an emollient. It does not help with acne cysts, which is what you are describing. So, if you can't get in to see a dermatologist, I'd recommend you see another physician because no, hydrocortisone is not enough and is not like injectable cortisone.
+1
Hydrocortisone for acne
Hydrocortisone is generally not used as a first recommendation for acne. Blu Light and Photodynamic Therapy (PDT) are great options for treating acne break outs. If you are unable to be seen by a Dermatologist, many Plastic Surgeons, Family Practitioner’s and Med Spas now offer these treatments. It is always important to be examined by a Physician prior to starting any medical procedure.
+1
Acne lesion
The best thing to do is see your family practitioner if you cannot get in with a dermatologist. Typically hydrocortisone is not used as a acne treatment.
