Mitchell J. Mandel, MD, FAAD
Dermatologist, founder · All offices
Steroid injections
Medically reviewed by Mitchell J. Mandel, M.D., F.A.A.D., Board-Certified Dermatologist. Last reviewed .
A steroid injection places a small amount of anti-inflammatory medicine directly into a spot on the skin. It targets local inflammation; the effect and risks depend on the condition, dose and injection site.
Conditions we treat with injections
- Painful acne cysts
- Keloids and raised scars
- Patches of alopecia areata
- Hidradenitis suppurativa lumps
- Thick patches of psoriasis, lichen planus or other inflammatory conditions
- Granuloma annulare
What to expect
The injection is quick and uses a very fine needle. Cysts often improve within a day or two. Scars and hair loss usually need a series of injections a few weeks apart.
Where it is offered
Offered at all of our offices.
Q&A
Are there side effects?
The most common are temporary tenderness, and sometimes a small dent or lighter area of skin at the injection site. These may improve, but skin thinning and color changes can persist. Your provider uses the lowest effective dose.
How many injections will I need?
One is often enough for a cyst. Scars and hair loss usually need several sessions.
Who performs this treatment
Dustin Marks, MD, FAAD
Dermatologist · Upper East Side
Emily Tongdee, MD, FAAD
Dermatologist · Downtown Brooklyn
Emma Newman, PA-C
Physician assistant · Upper East Side
Grace Jarrett, PA-C
Physician assistant · Downtown Brooklyn
Leah Aminov, PA-C
Physician assistant · Greenvale
Karen Chen, PA-C
Physician assistant · Streeterville
Paige Yurick, PA-C
Physician assistant · Streeterville
Arielle Ades, DNP, FNP-BC
Nurse practitioner · Boulder
Francesca Raedel, FNP-BC
Nurse practitioner · Boulder
Jennifer Telgener, FNP-BC
Nurse practitioner · Boulder
Christine Sacco, FNP-C
Nurse practitioner · Palm Beach Gardens