Cortisone Treatment for Keloid Scars London
Cortisone injections are a common treatment for raised scars like keloids and hypertrophic scars. These injections help to soften and flatten the scar tissue by reducing inflammation, slowing down collagen production, and improving blood flow.
How to reduce keloid scars
Cortisone injections are one of the most well established treatments for keloid scars. A small amount of medication is injected directly into the scar tissue itself, and it works by calming the inflammation inside the scar and slowing down the overactive process that made it grow raised, thick and firm in the first place.
Over a course of sessions (sometimes as little as one), this softens and flattens the scar, reduces redness, and eases any itching or tenderness that often comes with keloids.
We often combine cortisone with other treatments if the scar is red, white textured . This can be treatments such as CO2 Laser, Vascular Lasers or Scar Camouflage.
As with any injectable treatment, there are a few things to be aware of. In some cases, the skin around the injection site can become slightly thinner, show small visible blood vessels, or look a little lighter than the surrounding skin. These are things we’ll talk through with you fully at your consultation, so you know exactly what to expect.
Cortisone treatments and all dermatology services at Borciani London are carried out by Dr Vidaltxo Martinez, who has over 20 years experience in the field
Keloid Scars FAQ
Our most asked questions about Keloid scars and Cortisone Treatments
What is a cortisone injection for keloid scars?
It's a small injection of medication given directly into a keloid scar or raised scar. This calms inflammation, softens and flattens the scar, it can also help with any itching or tenderness. It's one of the most commonly used treatments for keloids.
How does cortisone treatment actually work?
The medication works by calming the overactive process inside the scar and breaking down the excess collagen that made it grow thick and raised.
Does it hurt?
A small amount of anaesthetic is mixed with the cortisone which reduces the discomfort, the treatment is generally very well tolerated.
How many sessions will I need?
Usually 1-2 sessions is enough for most keloids, if your scar is particularly severe, you may need additional sessions but this will be confirmed at your consultation. Sessions are 6-8 weeks apart to let the scar reduce fully and the skin recover.
Can this be combined with other treatments?
Absolutely, we often combine cortisone treatments with CO2 laser, vascular laser and other therapies.
How soon will I start to see results?
Some patients can see a softening within a week, you will see maximum reduction between 4-6 weeks post treatment.
Am I a good Candidate for Cortisone Treatments
The ideal candidate will have raised, fibrous or keloid scars that are moderate to severe.
For safety reasons, you may not be able to get this treatment if you have/are:
- If you are pregnant or breastfeeding
- Have an underlying medical condition/conflicting medications
- If you are in an active harm cycle
- Treating over tattoos or permanent makeup – but please check with us
- Excessively tanned – recent sun exposure
We will have an informal consultation with you to assess your scars and explain the treatments in detail, we can then recommend a treatment plan that fits with your lifestyle.