After Treatment
After Steroid Injection
Instructions after intralesional steroid injection for keloids, alopecia areata, or inflammatory conditions.
What to Expect
- Mild pain or burning sensation at the injection site
- Redness and minor swelling for a few days
- Full effect takes 4-6 weeks to develop
- Multiple sessions may be needed, typically every 4-6 weeks
Possible Side Effects
- Skin thinning or depression at the injection site (usually temporary, resolves over months)
- Lightening of skin color at the site (hypopigmentation) - more noticeable in darker skin, typically resolves in 6-12 months
- Small blood vessels may become visible (telangiectasia)
- Fragile or thin skin at the injection site
What to Avoid
- Do not massage or press the injected area for 24 hours
- Avoid strenuous activity involving the treated area for 24 hours
When to Contact Us
- Significant skin depression that worsens
- Skin color change that spreads
- Signs of infection at injection site
