Acne Kenalog Injection

What Is It Called?

Most people refer to this fast-acting acne treatment as

• Cortisone shot for acne
• Steroid injection for acne
• Kenalog shot for pimples

What Is a Cortisone Shot for Acne?

This acne-fighting shot contains Kanalog®, the brand name for triamcinolone, a corticosteroid that dramatically reduces inflammation, redness, and swelling.
At OC MedDerm, Dr. Shafa only uses brand-name Kenalog, never generics, and dilutes it with xylocaine (a local anesthetic) to make the procedure virtually painless.
She can also drain cystic acne comfortably during the same visit, if needed.

What Is a Cortisone Shot for Acne?

• You may be an ideal candidate if
• Your pimple is stubborn and not responding to usual treatments
• The blemish is painful, irritating, or cosmetically bothersome
• You have an important upcoming event—like a wedding, date, or photo shoot
• You’re dealing with a large cyst or nodule that could scar or cause skin indentation

Benefits of a Kenalog Injection for Acne:

• Rapid relief from large, painful pimples
• Prevents scarring and indentation
• Fast recovery before big events
• Virtually painless with anesthetic mixed in

How Soon Will I See Results?

Most patients notice that swelling and redness start shrinking a few hours after injection. A significant result is expected within 1 to 2 days after injection.

Does It Hurt?

Not really. We use a tiny needle, and the xylocaine in the injection numbs the area instantly. You’ll barely feel it.

What is the risk of a Kenalog injection?

There is a minute risk of indentation after a large, deep acne lesion is healed. Persistent cystic acne can cause indentations on its own as it heals. However, Kenalog injections may also contribute to this by causing fat atrophy, which can lead to indentation at the injection site.

How do we avoid indentation at the site of injected cystic acne?

Dr. Shafa believes that only the brand-name steroid Kenalog (not the generic version called Triamcinolone) should be used for acne lesions.
She super-dilutes Kenalog to reduce the risk of indentation.
We offer a free, no-wait reinjection within one week if the results are not satisfactory.
It’s important to seek medical attention early, before cystic acne becomes too large, as it may cause indentation after healing.

Same-Day Appointments Available

At OC MedDerm, we understand that urgent skin concerns require urgent care. That’s why we offer same-day acne injections—no long waits.

Clear your skin fast with Dr. Shafa’s expert care.

Located in Irvine, Orange County
Call now to book your same-day cortisone shot appointment.