Does skin atrophy from cortisone injection heal? (Photo)

Question

I had a keloid in my jaw that was treated with 3 cortisone injections, the last one 8 months ago, will the area heal or it will stay like these forever, theres any treatment available to heal? Will beard ever grow back again or will the redness dissapear? Thanks

Raffy Karamanoukian, MD, FACS · Answer

Our treatments use combination therapy to improve the epidermis and dermis.  We see atrophic and hypertrophic scars, as well as scars that have hypo and hyperpigmentation. Our main concern is rebuilding collagen and that is why we use a HIDEF protocol that includes combination therapy. Morpheus 8, scar subcision, fibrous release, fractional laser, CO2 laser, Thulium laser, PDL Vbeam laser, and fractional resurfacing can be used in addition to TCA Cross and chemical peels to further improve skin. Patients should start Melarase AM and Melarase PM for active hyperpigmentation. Always begin with a consultation to discuss the best treatment options for your type of skin. .

Best, 
Dr. Karamanoukian 
Realself100 Surgeon

Jason Emer, MD · Answer

Combination treatmetns work well on scars such as lasers, fillers, microneedling.  I suggest you see an expert for a formal evaluation. Yes cortisone injections can cause atrophy that can be permanent and needs treatment. Best, Dr. Emer

Johnson C. Lee, MD · Answer

Steroid injections, such as cortisone, into the skin can cause dermal atrophy or thinning, hairloss and discoloration of the skin. If the steroid is discontinued then the skin may recover to a degree over several months, but it may also be permanent. Retin-A topical cream may also help counteract the steroid effects in that area. Other options include microneedling, radiofrequency, and lasers to improve the scar appearance. In the long run, a small surgical excision can reduce that area into a line and bring the hair-bearing areas back together, although you may wish to avoid any skin incisions due to her history of keloids. Best of luck!

Does skin atrophy from cortisone injection heal? (Photo)

Answers (3)

Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Scar Removal

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.

Does skin atrophy from cortisone injection heal? (Photo)

Answers (3)

Browse related questions

Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Scar Removal

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.