ABOUT THE TREATMENT
A cortisone shot places a small, diluted amount of anti inflammatory medication directly into a cystic breakout, calming swelling and pain so it heals faster.
At The Real Skin Medical Center, cortisone injections are a quick option for clients with a painful cyst before a big event, or breakouts that sit deep beneath the skin and will not come to a head. Your provider uses a carefully diluted dose and a very fine needle, placed precisely into the blemish. Most breakouts flatten and feel less tender within a day or two, which also lowers the chance of a lasting mark.
TREATMENT DETAILS
BEST FOR
Painful, inflamed cystic acne breakouts and deep blemishes
TREATMENT TIME
About 5 to 10 minutes
DOWNTIME
None. A small mark at the injection site may be visible briefly
RESULTS
Less swelling, redness, and pain, often within 24 to 48 hours
RESULTS DURATION
Less swelling, redness, and pain, often within 24 to 48 hours
BRANDS OFFERED
Triamcinolone (Kenalog®)
DESIGNED FOR YOUR CONCERNS
Fast Relief for Deep Breakouts

01
Cystic Breakouts
Calm deep, painful cysts that sit beneath the skin and will not come to a head.

02
Jawline and Chin
Treat hormonal breakouts along the jawline and chin so they heal faster.

03
Before an Event
Quickly reduce a visible breakout before a wedding, photo shoot, or big day.
WHAT TO EXPECT
Your Cortisone Appointment
Every appointment is thoughtful and designed to respect your time. Most visits take under 30 up to 60 minutes from check-in to checkout.
01
Consultation
We look at the breakout and confirm that a cortisone injection is the right choice.
02
Skin Prep
The area is gently cleansed to prepare for a precise, clean injection.
03
Treatment
A small, diluted dose is placed directly into the blemish with a very fine needle.
04
Aftercare
You can return to your day right away. We share tips to help the area heal cleanly.
RECOVERY + RESULTS
After Your Appointment
There is no downtime after a cortisone injection. You may see a tiny mark at the injection site, and makeup can usually be applied a few hours later. Avoid picking or squeezing the area so it can heal cleanly.
Most clients notice the breakout flattening and feeling less painful within 24 to 48 hours. Because cortisone treats individual breakouts rather than the cause of acne, we often pair it with a longer term plan such as chemical peels, a skin care routine, or a referral when medical acne treatment is needed.
PATIENT RESULTS
Individual results vary. Photos are for illustrative purposes.
THE REAL SKIN APPROACH
Treatment Built
Around You.
Acne care should feel calm and judgment free. At The Real Skin, we use cortisone thoughtfully, with carefully diluted doses placed precisely, because the goal is to heal the breakout without leaving a mark behind. We are honest about what a cortisone shot can and cannot do, and if a peel, a skin care plan, or a medical referral would serve you better, we will tell you.
Our Costa Mesa studio on Adams Avenue is an easy drive from the 405 and 55 freeways, and we welcome acne clients from Newport Beach, Huntington Beach, Irvine, Tustin, Fountain Valley, Santa Ana, and across Orange County.



Meet Paveena
MEDICAL DIRECTOR & FOUNDER
THE REAL SKIN MEDICAL CENTER
With over eight years of experience as a Nurse Practitioner, Paveena brings a strong clinical foundation into her work in aesthetics.
She began her career in urgent care, where she worked in high-pressure environments that required precision, attention to detail, and the ability to truly listen. Those experiences continue to shape how she approaches every client today.
In 2018, she transitioned into aesthetic medicine with a more personal perspective, one that values understanding each individual and creating a thoughtful experience from start to finish.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
How does a cortisone shot help acne?
A cortisone shot places a small amount of diluted anti inflammatory medication directly into a cystic breakout. It calms swelling and pain quickly so the blemish can heal faster.
How quickly does a cortisone shot work on a pimple?
Most clients see the breakout flatten and feel less tender within 24 to 48 hours.
How much is a cortisone shot for acne in Costa Mesa?
Pricing depends on the number of breakouts treated. We share exact pricing during your visit.
Are there side effects?
Side effects are uncommon when a properly diluted dose is used. Rarely, a small dent or lighter spot can form at the injection site, which usually improves over time. This is why we use careful dosing and precise placement.
Can every pimple be treated with cortisone?
Cortisone works best for deep, inflamed cysts and nodules. It is not used for whiteheads or blackheads, which respond better to facials, peels, and skin care.

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Hours & Booking
Monday - Sunday 10am- 7pm
Open By Appointment Only
Address & Info
1565 Adams Ave #12
Costa Mesa, CA 92626
Poke@TheRealSkin.co
714-869-1121
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