Cystic Acne Treatments

Cystic acne is considered to be the most severe type of acne and involves the formation of cysts underneath the swollen pustules that are on the surface of the skin. These cysts can spread easily and are often painful, feeling like soft lumps beneath the skin’s surface, while permanent pits, dark marks, and scarring may also develop on the skin. Hard and painful lumps called “nodules” sometimes form beneath the skin in addition to the cysts; this is referred to as “nodulocystic acne.”

Causes of Cystic Acne

The exact cause of cystic acne varies from person to person, but it is generally triggered by an infection caused by a buildup of dirt and bacteria in the pores of the skin. Hormonal changes and hereditary factors are also suspected in many cases, and it typically appears on the face but sometimes on the back as well. The majority of sufferers are teenagers, especially boys, and young men. Also, due to the constant hormonal changes, cystic acne often develops following a pregnancy.

Effects of Cystic Acne

Cystic acne breakouts can potentially destroy skin tissue and may require aggressive treatments to reduce the risk of permanent scarring. Additionally, many sufferers tend to pick at the infected skin or squeeze the pustules, increasing the risk of skin damage and bleeding, and this should be strictly avoided. In a case of acne scars, cosmetic surgery and skin creams may be able to diminish their appearance to varying degrees.

Cystic Acne Treatments

An effective treatment for severe cystic acne should be determined by a physician, especially a dermatologist. Treatment methods vary, but usually begin with an external medication recommended by a doctor. Topical formulas containing benzoyl peroxide, Aloe vera, and tea leaves may be used to help clear the skin. When using any cleanser, however, it is important not to remove the skin’s essential oils, as this will result in excessive dryness.

Additional treatments for cystic acne will depend on the severity of each case. Skin peeling, a form of steam treatment, is another option for clearing pores and attacking the infection. The warm steam can help bring out dirt from beneath the clogged pores and the cysts, while also removing dead skin cells and increasing blood circulation.

In addition to topical remedies, difficult cases of acne may require systemic medications. Oral antibiotics can be used to fight the bacteria causing the infection and reduce skin inflammation. Oral contraceptives, by acting on androgen hormones to reduce oil secretions, may be used for severe acne in women. Isotretinoin, derived from Vitamin A and formerly sold as Accutane, shrinks the sebaceous glands to help reduce the amount of oil in the skin; however, it is now only used for very severe cystic acne due to its potentially serious side effects.