At SKIN/tervention by Dr. Zoë Indigo MD, we specialize in personalized, holistic care that merges natural healing with advanced medical science. Our cortisone shot treatments are designed to reduce inflammation, calm flare-ups, and support faster healing for acne lesions, cystic breakouts, keloid scars, and ingrown hairs. With precision and care, Dr. Indigo and her team provide safe, effective injections that deliver visible improvements within days—helping you regain confidence in your skin.
Book OnlineWhy Choose Dr. Zoë Indigo
At our Beverly Hills and Inglewood offices, Dr. Indigo and her experienced medical team combine integrative and regenerative medicine expertise with the latest dermatological innovations. Every treatment is tailored to your individual skin condition and wellness goals. We take time to explain each step of your procedure, ensuring transparency, comfort, and outstanding results. Beyond symptom relief, our approach emphasizes long-term skin health and self-confidence, supporting your journey toward clear, radiant skin.
What Is Cortisone?
Cortisone shots, also known as corticosteroid injections, are a powerful and precise way to treat inflammatory acne lesions and other skin irritations. A small amount of cortisone (often a product called Kenalog) is injected directly into the affected area, instantly reducing inflammation and preventing scarring. Within 24–72 hours, the treated area noticeably flattens and heals.
Our cortisone injections can treat:
- Cystic or nodular acne
- Ingrown hairs or inflamed follicles
- Keloid or hypertrophic scars
- Swollen, painful blemishes before events or photos
How Does a Cortisone Shot Work?
Once injected, cortisone immediately begins reducing inflammation by targeting the overactive immune response that causes redness, swelling, and pain. The surrounding tissue calms, allowing the skin to heal naturally. Because the dose is localized, the treatment works quickly while minimizing systemic effects.
Benefits of Cortisone Shots
- Fast reduction of acne inflammation and redness
- Decreases cyst size within 24–48 hours
- Minimizes risk of scarring
- Virtually painless and takes only minutes
- Safe and effective when administered by a licensed professional
- Can treat multiple spots in one visit
- Ideal before events, photos, or performances
Who Is a Candidate?
- Patients with moderate to severe or cystic acne
- Individuals with inflamed or painful breakouts
- Those who have not responded to topical or oral acne treatments
- Anyone seeking fast results before a special occasion
- Healthy candidates without contraindicated conditions for steroid use
What to Expect During Treatment
Each session begins with a gentle cleansing of the treatment area. Dr. Indigo or one of her trained providers uses a fine needle to inject a small amount of cortisone into each lesion or inflamed area. The procedure takes only a few minutes, and most patients report little to no discomfort. You can resume normal activities immediately afterward.
Results often appear within 24–72 hours, with inflammation subsiding quickly. Treated areas flatten and fade, and the healing process continues naturally in the following days.
Cortisone for Cystic Acne Lesions
Book a same-day appointment. Each treatment session is fast, effective, and customized for your skin type and breakout severity.
FAQs
How fast does a cortisone shot work?
Most patients see visible improvement within 24–72 hours as inflammation decreases and the pimple begins to shrink.
Is the treatment painful?
No. The injections are performed with a very fine needle, and most people feel only a brief, mild pinch. There’s no downtime afterward.
Can cortisone shots cause skin thinning or light spots?
When administered by a skilled provider in precise micro-doses, side effects like skin thinning or temporary light spots are very rare. Dr. Indigo always uses the lowest effective dose to ensure safety and natural results.
How long do results last?
Results are long-lasting for each treated lesion. New breakouts may occur due to other causes, so maintaining a consistent skincare plan is recommended.
Can cortisone shots be used on areas other than the face?
Yes. Cortisone injections can also be used for the chest, back, neck, or other areas affected by cystic acne, keloid scars, or inflammation.
Are cortisone shots safe for all skin types?
Yes, they are safe for all skin tones and types when performed by an experienced medical professional.
How often can I get cortisone shots?
Most patients only need treatment as flare-ups occur. Regular injections in the same area are not usually necessary unless directed by your provider.
Why Patients Love This Treatment
Patients appreciate cortisone shots for their quick, visible results and simplicity. Whether you’re managing chronic acne or need emergency relief before an event, this fast-acting treatment offers comfort, clarity, and confidence — all in one visit.
Book Your Appointment
Say goodbye to painful cystic acne and stubborn inflammation. Schedule your cortisone shot consultation at SKIN/tervention by Dr. Zoë Indigo, MD today.