Cortisone Injection
Fast, targeted relief for inflammation that has outstayed its welcome.
Some things don't need a series of treatments or a long-term plan. They need a precise, effective intervention that resolves the problem and lets you get on with your life.
Cortisone is a corticosteroid — a potent anti-inflammatory delivered directly into the site of inflammation. Whether that's a persistent acne cyst that has been sitting under the skin for weeks, a reactive skin lesion, or localised inflammatory tissue concern, a cortisone injection addresses it at the source. Quickly. Effectively. Without the weeks of waiting for it to resolve on its own.
What it Treats:
Cortisone injections at NEA are used for targeted inflammatory skin concerns — delivering the anti-inflammatory directly to the problem rather than relying on systemic or topical approaches that take longer and work less precisely.
Most commonly used for:
Cystic acne · Nodular acne lesions · Persistent inflammatory breakouts · Reactive skin lesions · Localised inflammatory skin concerns
What to Expect:
The injection itself takes only a few minutes. A very fine needle delivers a small amount of corticosteroid directly into the inflamed area. Discomfort is brief and minimal.
Results are typically visible within 24 to 72 hours — the inflammation reduces, the lesion flattens, and the skin begins to resolve. For cystic acne specifically, the change between before and after is often dramatic enough that clients wish they hadn't waited as long as they did.
Mild temporary indentation at the injection site is a possible side effect, particularly if the concentration used is too high or the injection too superficial. Emily uses precise technique and conservative dosing to minimise this risk — it is uncommon when the treatment is performed correctly.
Results:
When: Visible reduction in inflammation within 24 to 72 hours
How long: Resolves the treated lesion — ongoing acne management requires a broader skincare and treatment approach
What affects it: Size and type of lesion, individual response, and the underlying skin condition being managed
IS THIS RIGHT FOR YOU?
Cortisone injections are appropriate for adults with acute inflammatory skin lesions who want rapid resolution — particularly those with a cystic or nodular acne lesion that needs addressing before an event, or that has been present long enough that it's reasonable to intervene directly.
It is not a long-term acne management strategy on its own. If you're dealing with frequent breakouts, Emily will discuss a more comprehensive approach alongside the immediate treatment.
Cortisone injections are not suitable for clients with active skin infections, certain sensitivities to corticosteroids, or in specific areas where injection carries additional considerations. Emily will review the lesion and your history before proceeding.
The Questions People Actually Ask:
01. Can I get this for a spot before an event? Yes — and it's one of the most practical treatments on the menu for exactly that situation. Book as far in advance of your event as possible to allow the full resolution time to work in your favour. 24 to 48 hours before is not ideal — three to five days gives the injection adequate time to work and any minor post-injection redness to settle.
02. Is there any risk of it leaving a mark? A small risk of temporary indentation exists if the injection is placed too superficially or the dose is too concentrated. This is uncommon with correct technique and conservative dosing — both of which Emily prioritises. Any indentation that does occur typically resolves on its own over weeks to months.
03. Will this stop the breakouts from coming back? A cortisone injection resolves the specific lesion it treats — it doesn't address the underlying cause of acne. If breakouts are a recurring concern, Emily will discuss what a broader management approach might look like for your skin alongside the immediate treatment.
