Steroid Injection for Pimples in Newport Beach
Intralesional corticosteroid injection for painful, deep acne cysts. Performed personally by Dr. Amir Mortazavi, MD.
A cortisone shot delivers a small amount of dilute corticosteroid directly into an inflamed cyst. It shuts down the inflammation at the source rather than waiting it out. Most cysts noticeably flatten within 24 to 48 hours, and the pain typically eases well before the swelling does.
This is the treatment for the cyst that won't come to a head — the deep, tender, immovable one that has been there for days and isn't going anywhere. Those are the lesions topical products can't reach and picking makes worse.
It also lowers the scarring risk. The longer a deep cyst stays inflamed, the more surrounding tissue is damaged and the more likely it is to leave an indentation or a dark mark. Cutting the inflammation short is the most effective thing you can do to prevent a scar you'd otherwise be treating later.
Best timing: as early as possible. A cyst injected on day two responds better than one injected on day eight. If you have an event, aim for at least three to four days ahead so the flattening has time to happen.
What to know: the injection takes seconds and stings briefly. Uncommonly, a small temporary depression can form at the injection site if the tissue responds strongly to the steroid — this generally fills back in over weeks to months. Dilution and dose are the variables that control that risk, which is why it's done by the physician rather than delegated.
Not a treatment for acne itself. This addresses one lesion at a time. Recurrent cystic acne needs medical management, and if that's your pattern, a dermatologist should be directing your care — Dr. Mortazavi will say so rather than injecting you monthly.
Already have scarring from past cysts? That's a different treatment. See acne scar subcision in Newport Beach.
What Is a Steroid Injection for Pimples?
Steroid injections are a fast, effective way to treat stubborn acne cysts and inflamed pimples. At Plump Medical Spa near Newport Beach, Dr. Amir Mortazavi, MD, performs every injection with precision to quickly calm swelling, reduce pain, and help prevent scarring.
This treatment is ideal when you need a breakout to clear quickly before an event or when acne cysts do not respond to skincare or oral medications.
How Does It Work?
A tiny corticosteroid dose is injected into the cyst
Inflammation begins to calm within hours
The lesion flattens in 24–48 hours
Scarring risk is reduced significantly
Why Choose Plump Medical Spa?
Physician-only injections for safety and accuracy
Rapid treatment with no downtime
Works on face, chest, and back cysts
Trusted by clients throughout Newport Beach and Orange County
What to Expect
Treatment Time: Less than 10 minutes
Results: Visible improvement in 24–48 hours
Downtime: None — return to normal life immediately
Longevity: Treats the cyst directly; can be repeated if future breakouts occur
Ideal Candidates
Steroid injections may be right if you:
Struggle with large, painful acne cysts
Need a pimple to resolve quickly
Want to avoid scars and pigmentation
Prefer a quick, effective medical solution
Frequently Asked Questions
How quickly will it work?
Most cysts flatten within 1–2 days after injection.
Does it hurt?
The injection takes only seconds and discomfort is minimal.
Will this treat all my acne?
No. It targets individual cysts but doesn’t prevent new breakouts.
What are possible side effects?
Rare skin thinning or lightening can occur, minimized by physician care.
How often can I get this done?
As needed, whenever new cysts develop.
Is this safe for all skin tones?
Yes. Safe and effective across all skin types.
Does it leave marks?
No — in fact, it helps prevent scarring and dark spots.
Can I combine it with other acne treatments?
Yes, it pairs well with topical regimens, facials, and medications.
Can body acne be treated too?
Yes. Cysts on the chest, back, or shoulders can also be injected.
Why Plump?
Dr. Amir’s physician-led care ensures accurate, safe, and effective results every time.