How effective are corticosteroid injections for keloids?

Corticosteroid injections are effective in reducing keloid size in 50-80% of cases. Most patients see their keloid soften, flatten, and become less symptomatic after a series of injections. However, keloids can recur after treatment, which is why dermatologists often recommend combination approaches -- such as injections paired with cryotherapy or pressure therapy -- to improve long-term outcomes.

How many injection sessions will I need for a keloid?

Most patients require 3-6 injection sessions spaced 4-6 weeks apart to achieve significant keloid reduction. The first injections tend to relieve symptoms like itching and pain and begin softening the keloid. Subsequent sessions progressively flatten the scar. Your dermatologist will assess your response and adjust the treatment plan at each visit.

Are keloid injections painful?

Injecting into dense keloid tissue can cause discomfort, and many patients describe a burning or pressure sensation during the injection. Your dermatologist may apply cryotherapy or a topical anesthetic before injection to reduce pain and make the keloid tissue easier to penetrate. The discomfort is brief and subsides quickly after treatment.

Will my keloid come back after injection treatment?

Keloid recurrence is possible, with some studies reporting regrowth in up to 50% of cases within five years when injections are used alone. Combining injections with other treatments -- such as cryotherapy, pressure garments, or silicone sheeting -- can significantly improve long-term results. Your dermatologist will recommend a maintenance strategy to minimize recurrence risk.

What are the side effects of keloid injections?

The most common side effects include temporary skin thinning (atrophy) and lightening of the skin (hypopigmentation) around the injection site. These changes are more noticeable in darker skin tones. Visible small blood vessels (telangiectasia) may also develop. Your dermatologist will use appropriate concentrations to minimize these risks, and many side effects improve over time after treatment is completed.

Who is a good candidate for keloid injections?

Keloid Injections is commonly recommended for individuals experiencing active keloid scars causing cosmetic concern, keloid prevention after surgical excision, hypertrophic scars that have not responded to conservative treatment, earlobe keloids from piercings. Schedule a consultation at Wall Street Dermatology in New York to find out if Keloid Injections is right for you.

See Real Results with Keloid Removal NYC

Small injections to reduce bulkiness

Last Updated: July 6, 2026
By Julia Tzu, MD FAAD

Keloid Injections

Unsightly keloid scars are often treated with small injections of a corticosteroid solution to reduce its bulkiness. Depending on the size of the keloid scar and your body’s response, multiple scar revision sessions are often required to reduce the bulkiness. Dr. Tzu’s keloid treatment accounts for the unique needs of skin of color.