From the Research
Steroid injections for keloids should be administered every 4-6 weeks, as this frequency has been shown to be effective in reducing the size and symptoms of keloids, with a trend towards preventing recurrences 1. The most commonly used steroid is triamcinolone acetonide (Kenalog), with concentrations ranging from 10-40 mg/ml depending on the keloid's location and thickness.
- Treatment usually continues for 3-6 sessions, though some patients may require maintenance injections every 6-12 months to prevent recurrence.
- The procedure involves injecting the steroid directly into the keloid tissue using a small needle, which may cause temporary discomfort.
- Side effects can include skin thinning, hypopigmentation, and telangiectasia (visible blood vessels), especially with higher concentrations or frequent injections.
- Steroid injections work by suppressing inflammation and inhibiting collagen synthesis, which helps reduce the size and symptoms of keloids.
- The treatment should be performed by a dermatologist or other qualified healthcare provider who can adjust the frequency and concentration based on your individual response and the keloid's characteristics.
- A study comparing the effectiveness of triamcinolone acetonide, 5-fluorouracil, and their combination for the treatment of keloids found that the combination of triamcinolone acetonide and 5-fluorouracil offered a balanced benefit of faster and more efficacious response with lesser adverse effects 2.
- However, the most recent and highest quality study recommends administering intralesional steroid injections every 4-6 weeks, as this frequency has been shown to be effective in reducing the size and symptoms of keloids, with a trend towards preventing recurrences 1.