What it is in Korea
➤ Cystic acne injection in Korea is a fast-acting dermatological procedure used to treat painful, inflamed cystic acne lesions by injecting corticosteroid medication (usually triamcinolone) directly into the cyst.
→ The treatment works by rapidly reducing inflammation, swelling, and pain, often flattening the cyst within 24–48 hours.
✦ In Korea, this treatment is particularly popular because of the focus on preventing scars, ensuring faster healing, and maintaining clear skin.
✔ The procedure is quick, usually performed during a short clinic visit, and is commonly combined with other acne management strategies.
Why it’s done in Korea
▸ Medical necessity → Cystic acne is the most severe form of acne, often leaving permanent scars if untreated.
▸ Quick relief → Patients often seek cyst injections before important events, as they rapidly reduce swelling and redness.
▸ Scar prevention → In Korea, where skin clarity is highly valued, injections are favored for minimizing long-term damage.
✔ Dermatologists recommend this treatment when:
- A cyst is large, painful, or persistent
- There is risk of rupture or scarring
- Standard topical/oral treatments are ineffective for a particular lesion
- Patients need urgent cosmetic improvement (e.g., before social events, weddings, interviews)
Alternatives in Korea
While cystic acne injection is effective, alternatives or complementary treatments are also available:
➤ Oral medications
- Antibiotics → Reduce inflammation but take weeks to show results
- Isotretinoin → Long-term control of severe acne, but not immediate relief
➤ Procedural options
✔ Drainage & extraction → Performed when a cyst is very large or not responding to injections
✔ Laser therapy → Helps reduce inflammation and prevent recurrence
✔ Chemical peels → Control oil production and fade post-acne marks
➤ Topical treatments
✦ Benzoyl peroxide, retinoids, and salicylic acid may help prevent future cyst formation, though they do not work on active cysts.
Preparation in Korea
Before undergoing cystic acne injection, Korean dermatologists typically advise:
▸ Pre-treatment consultation
→ The dermatologist will examine the cyst to confirm it is suitable for injection.
→ Patients disclose any allergies, medications, or history of skin sensitivity.
▸ Precautions
✦ Avoid squeezing or picking the cyst before the appointment.
✦ Do not apply strong acids (retinoids, exfoliants) on the cyst area before treatment.
✦ Inform the doctor if pregnant or breastfeeding, as steroid use may need adjustment.
How it’s done in Korea
➤ The procedure is quick and usually takes only a few minutes in a dermatologist’s office:
- Cleansing → The skin around the cyst is disinfected.
- Injection → A very fine needle delivers low-dose corticosteroid directly into the cyst.
- Immediate effect → The medication reduces inflammation, flattening the cyst over 24–48 hours.
- Aftercare instructions → The doctor provides guidance on cleansing and protecting the treated area.
✔ The process is minimally painful, with most patients describing it as a slight pinch.
✦ Korean clinics often combine injections with soothing LED therapy or cooling masks to reduce redness faster.
Recovery in Korea
▸ Immediate results
✔ Pain relief and reduced swelling within hours.
✔ Noticeable flattening of the cyst in 1–2 days.
▸ Short-term aftercare
→ Mild redness at the injection site may occur but fades within 24 hours.
→ Makeup can usually be applied the next day.
▸ Long-term results
✦ The injected cyst rarely recurs, though new cysts may form elsewhere.
✦ Patients may need ongoing acne management (oral meds, laser, or skincare).
Complications in Korea
While generally safe, cystic acne injections can have some risks:
➤ Skin changes
- Temporary skin thinning or depression at the injection site (if too high a dose is used)
- Mild discoloration that usually fades over time
➤ Systemic effects (rare)
✦ Minimal steroid absorption can occur but is negligible with small doses
✦ Rare allergic reaction to the medication
➤ Other risks
✔ If overused, repeated injections may lead to skin atrophy
✔ Therefore, Korean dermatologists use precisely calculated doses and limit frequency
Treatment Options in Korea
Korea is highly regarded for acne scar prevention and advanced dermatological care, making it an ideal destination for cystic acne injections.
➤ Major hospitals
- Seoul National University Hospital Dermatology → Provides advanced acne management and scar prevention strategies.
- Yonsei Severance Hospital → Multidisciplinary care for patients with recurrent or severe cystic acne.
➤ Private dermatology clinics (Seoul, Gangnam, Apgujeong)
✔ Oracle Skin Clinic, Banobagi Dermatology, Renewme Skin Clinic → Popular among international patients for fast acne injections combined with scar-minimizing laser therapies.
➤ Korean advantages
✦ Clinics use microneedle precision injection systems for accurate delivery.
✦ Integration with K-beauty aftercare packages (calming serums, soothing masks) enhances healing.
✦ Medical tourism support: translation, online consultations, and follow-up services for foreign patients.
Conclusion in Korea
➤ Cystic acne injection in Korea offers immediate relief, scar prevention, and aesthetic improvement, making it a preferred choice for patients needing fast results.
→ The treatment is safe, quick, and highly effective when performed by skilled Korean dermatologists.
✦ Combined with Korea’s expertise in skin aesthetics and advanced acne care, this procedure not only eliminates painful cysts but also ensures long-term skin health and confidence.
