Corticosteroid Injections: Rapid Relief in Hours
For red, inflamed pustules, corticosteroid injections provide the fastest relief. The procedure involves injecting triamcinolone acetonide, a corticosteroid, directly into the lesion to suppress inflammation. Patients typically experience reduced pain and swelling within three to four hours, with significant improvement in redness within one to two days. As the procedure avoids incision or extraction, it minimizes the risk of scarring—a key advantage.
Repeated injections in the same area, however, may lead to side effects such as skin atrophy or hyperpigmentation. Physicians recommend consulting a dermatologist before treatment and stress the importance of post-injection care, including sun protection, consistent moisturizing, and avoiding dietary triggers.
When corticosteroid injections are not immediately available, a cold compress serves as an effective temporary measure. Wrapping ice in a clean cloth and applying it gently to the affected area for 5 to 10 minutes can temporarily alleviate heat and swelling. Caution is needed, as direct ice contact or excessive pressure may further irritate the skin.
Soothing Skincare for Long-Term Management
For chronic inflammatory acne, consistent skincare is critical. Products containing proven anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial ingredients are highly effective when used regularly. Key ingredients include salicylic acid (beta-hydroxy acid), niacinamide, azelaic acid, centella asiatica extract, and tea tree oil.
Salicylic acid clears pores of dead skin cells and sebum, inhibiting acne-causing bacteria and reducing inflammation. Niacinamide regulates sebum production, mitigates inflammatory responses, and strengthens the skin barrier. Azelaic acid offers antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory action, targeting acne-causing bacteria while reducing post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation. Centella asiatica extract promotes skin repair and calms inflamed areas, while tea tree oil’s natural antimicrobial properties help eliminate acne-causing bacteria.
Overuse of these ingredients can cause irritation, dryness, or recurrent breakouts. Dermatologists advise starting with low-concentration products, conducting patch tests, and gradually increasing usage based on skin tolerance.
Anti-Inflammatory Diet for Acne Control
Managing chronic inflammatory acne extends beyond topical treatments to include dietary and lifestyle adjustments. Reducing foods that trigger inflammation and incorporating antioxidant-rich options are vital for skin health.
Anti-inflammatory foods such as leafy greens, cabbage, and tomatoes are rich in vitamins A, C, and E, which regulate sebum production and slow acne progression. Legumes, containing zinc and isoflavones, support sebum control and hormonal balance. Fatty fish like mackerel and salmon provide omega-3 fatty acids, which reduce inflammation and bolster immune function. Green tea’s catechins deliver antioxidant benefits, suppressing acne-causing bacteria and calming the skin.
Conversely, high-fat foods like pork belly, fried items, and nuts contain arachidonic acid, which can exacerbate inflammation. High-glycemic-index foods—such as processed snacks, refined flour products, and sodas—stimulate insulin production, increasing sebum and worsening acne. Dairy products, particularly skim milk, may aggravate acne by influencing hormone levels, according to research, so moderation is advised.
Lifestyle Habits to Boost Skin Recovery
Enhancing skin regeneration requires more than external treatments; lifestyle changes play a crucial role. The hours between 10 p.m. and 2 a.m. are optimal for skin cell renewal, making sufficient sleep during this period essential for recovery.
Stress, a known acne trigger, increases cortisol production, which boosts sebum output. Incorporating stress-reduction practices such as meditation, yoga, or deep breathing can help. Adding at least 30 minutes of daily aerobic exercise further improves outcomes by promoting anti-inflammatory compounds and enhancing metabolism, contributing to overall skin health.
Haeun Oh, HEALTH IN NEWS TEAM
press@hinews.co.kr
