What are the main causes of cystic acne. How can you identify the symptoms of severe acne. What are the most effective treatments for cystic acne. Is isotretinoin safe for treating severe acne cases. How does benzoyl peroxide help in managing acne.

Understanding Cystic Acne: A Severe Form of Skin Condition

Cystic acne is the most severe type of acne, characterized by deep, painful, pus-filled cysts and nodules that form beneath the skin’s surface. Unlike common acne, cystic acne can cause significant scarring and emotional distress due to its effects on facial appearance. This condition primarily affects the face but can also occur on the upper trunk and upper arms.

While acne is a widespread issue affecting an estimated 80% of people between 11 and 30 years old, cystic acne is relatively uncommon. However, its impact can be profound, making it a top reason for dermatologist visits according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

The Root Causes of Cystic Acne

Understanding the underlying causes of cystic acne is crucial for effective treatment. Contrary to popular myths, cystic acne is not caused by chocolate, nuts, greasy foods, poor hygiene, or masturbation. The main factors contributing to this severe form of acne include:

• Hormonal changes, especially during puberty
• Excessive oil production in the skin
• Clogged pores due to dead skin cells and bacteria
• Inflammation and infection within the pores
• Genetic predisposition

While hormonal changes during puberty are a primary trigger, cystic acne can also affect older individuals, suggesting that other factors may play a role in its development.

Identifying Symptoms of Cystic Acne

Recognizing the signs of cystic acne is essential for seeking appropriate treatment. The key symptoms include:

• Large, painful lumps beneath the skin’s surface
• Redness and inflammation around the affected areas
• Pus-filled cysts that may rupture
• Nodules that feel firm to the touch
• Persistent acne that doesn’t respond to over-the-counter treatments
• Scarring or indentations in the skin

If you experience these symptoms, especially if they persist or worsen over time, it’s crucial to consult a dermatologist for proper diagnosis and treatment.

Treatment Options for Cystic Acne

Managing cystic acne requires a comprehensive approach that often combines medical treatments and self-care measures. The severity of the condition typically necessitates the help of a specialist doctor, as the main drugs used to treat cystic acne are tightly controlled.

Benzoyl Peroxide: A Versatile Over-the-Counter Solution

Benzoyl peroxide has been a cornerstone in acne treatment for over 50 years. This versatile compound is available over the counter in various formulations, including cleansing liquids, bars, lotions, creams, and gels. But how does benzoyl peroxide work against acne?

• Kills acne-causing bacteria, particularly Propionibacterium acnes (P. acnes)
• Breaks up comedones (whiteheads and blackheads)
• Reduces inflammation and redness
• Helps unclog pores

Benzoyl peroxide is suitable for all acne severities and can be used while awaiting specialist treatment for severe cases. It’s typically applied once or twice daily, with the most common side effect being skin irritation. Allergic reactions are rare.

Isotretinoin: A Powerful Prescription Treatment

For severe cystic acne cases, isotretinoin is often prescribed. This potent drug, sold under various brand names including Absorica, Amnesteem, Claravis, Myorisan, and Sotret, is highly effective but comes with significant side effects and risks.

How does isotretinoin treat cystic acne?

• Reduces sebum production
• Decreases inflammation
• Prevents clogged pores
• Inhibits growth of acne-causing bacteria

Isotretinoin is typically taken at a dosage of 1 milligram (mg) per kilogram of body weight once daily for 16 to 20 weeks. While it’s recommended as a first-line treatment for severe acne, it’s usually reserved for cases where standard oral antibiotics have proven ineffective for moderate acne.

Potential Side Effects and Risks of Isotretinoin

While isotretinoin can be highly effective in treating cystic acne, it’s crucial to understand its potential side effects and risks. These may include:

• Dry eyes and chapped lips
• Joint pains
• Depression
• Liver damage
• Elevated lipid levels
• Teratogenic effects (birth defects if taken during pregnancy)

Due to its teratogenic nature, isotretinoin is strictly controlled for women who can become pregnant. They are required to use two methods of contraception for one month before, during, and at least one month after treatment. Regular pregnancy tests are also mandatory throughout the treatment period.

Holistic Approaches to Managing Cystic Acne

While medical treatments are often necessary for cystic acne, incorporating holistic approaches can support overall skin health and potentially reduce the severity of breakouts. Consider these complementary strategies:

1. Maintain a consistent skincare routine with gentle, non-comedogenic products
2. Practice stress-reduction techniques like meditation or yoga
3. Ensure adequate sleep and hydration
4. Consume a balanced diet rich in antioxidants and omega-3 fatty acids
5. Avoid touching or picking at acne lesions to prevent further inflammation and scarring

Remember, these holistic approaches should complement, not replace, professional medical advice and treatment for severe cystic acne.

The Emotional Impact of Cystic Acne

Cystic acne can have a significant psychological impact on those affected. The visible nature of the condition, coupled with its persistence and potential for scarring, can lead to:

• Lowered self-esteem
• Social anxiety
• Depression
• Negative body image

Addressing the emotional aspects of cystic acne is crucial for overall well-being. Seeking support from mental health professionals, joining support groups, or engaging in cognitive-behavioral therapy can be beneficial in managing the psychological effects of severe acne.

Preventing Cystic Acne Scarring

One of the most concerning aspects of cystic acne is its potential to cause permanent scarring. To minimize this risk, consider the following preventive measures:

• Seek early treatment from a dermatologist
• Avoid picking, squeezing, or popping acne lesions
• Use sunscreen daily to prevent hyperpigmentation of healing acne spots
• Consider gentle chemical exfoliation to promote skin cell turnover
• Discuss potential scar treatments with your dermatologist, such as laser therapy or microneedling

Early intervention and consistent care are key to preventing or minimizing acne scars, preserving both skin health and self-confidence.

Emerging Treatments and Research in Cystic Acne Management

The field of dermatology continues to evolve, bringing new hope for those struggling with cystic acne. Some promising developments include:

• Topical androgen receptor inhibitors
• Novel oral medications targeting specific inflammatory pathways
• Advanced light and laser therapies
• Personalized treatment approaches based on genetic profiling

These emerging treatments may offer alternatives for patients who don’t respond to or can’t tolerate traditional therapies. Staying informed about new research and consulting with a dermatologist can help individuals access the most current and effective treatments for their specific case of cystic acne.

Cystic acne, while challenging, is not an insurmountable condition. With the right combination of medical treatments, self-care practices, and emotional support, individuals can effectively manage their symptoms and regain confidence in their skin. Remember, each case is unique, and working closely with a dermatologist is crucial for developing a personalized treatment plan that addresses both the physical and emotional aspects of cystic acne.

Cystic acne: Causes, symptoms, and treatments

We include products we think are useful for our readers. If you buy through links on this page, we may earn a small commission Here’s our process.

Medical News Today only shows you brands and products that we stand behind.

Our team thoroughly researches and evaluates the recommendations we make on our site. To establish that the product manufacturers addressed safety and efficacy standards, we:

• Evaluate ingredients and composition: Do they have the potential to cause harm?
• Fact-check all health claims: Do they align with the current body of scientific evidence?
• Assess the brand: Does it operate with integrity and adhere to industry best practices?

We do the research so you can find trusted products for your health and wellness.

Read more about our vetting process.

Was this helpful?

Cystic acne is a severe type of acne in which pore blockages lead to infection and inflammation.

The skin condition mainly affects the face, but also often affects the upper trunk and upper arms.

Acne most often affects adolescents and young adults, with an estimated 80 percent of people between 11 and 30 years of age experiencing acne at some point.

Cystic acne is the most severe form and affects far fewer people.

In 2009, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) found that acne was the top reason people gave for visiting a dermatologist.

Fast facts on cystic acne

Here are some key points about cystic acne. More details and supporting information is in the body of this article.

• While acne is very common, cystic acne is relatively uncommon and more severe.
• The main factors behind cystic acne are the hormonal changes in puberty, but it can occur in older individuals, too.
• Cystic acne is not caused by chocolate, nuts, or greasy foods, nor by poor hygiene or masturbation.
• Cystic acne can be painful, as well as emotionally distressing because of its effects on facial appearance.

The treatment of severe, cystic acne requires the help of a specialist doctor and some self-care measures. Drug treatment can be effective at preventing cysts and scarring.

Mild or moderate acne can be managed with the help of a doctor. However, severe acne characterized by nodules and cysts may need referral to a specialist, as it might leave scars or already show signs of scarring. This is partly because the main drugs used to treat cystic acne are tightly controlled.

Benzoyl peroxide

Benzoyl peroxide is a treatment available to people with acne of any severity. It is also a treatment option for people with severe acne who are awaiting specialist treatment.

Benzoyl peroxide is available directly from pharmacies over the counter in a number of formulations that may be applied to the skin. It has been a mainstay in the treatment of acne for over 50 years, and works by killing bacteria, particularly Propionibacterium acnes (P. acnes).

Some benzoyl peroxide treatments are also available to purchase online.

It also breaks up comedones. These include whiteheads and blackheads.

Water-based and alcohol-based formulations of benzoyl peroxide are available, and the most appropriate form depends on skin type. Alcohol-based preparations have a drying effect, making these more suitable for people with oily skin.

Benzoyl peroxide products, which include cleansing liquids and bars, lotions, creams, and gels, are used once or twice a day. The most common side-effect is skin irritation. Allergies do not commonly occur.

Drug treatment with isotretinoin

Isotretinoin is a prescription drug for the treatment of cystic acne, sold under a number of brand names in the United States, including Absorica, Amnesteem, Claravis, Myorisan, and Sotret.

Isotretinoin is a very effective treatment, but it has significant side effects and is dangerous to an unborn child. It is usually taken at a dosage of 1 milligram (mg) for every kilogram of body weight once daily for 16 to 20 weeks.

For cases of moderate acne, isotretinoin is not recommended until standard treatment with oral antibiotics has been tried and found to be ineffective. Isotretinoin is, however, recommended as a first-line treatment for severe acne.

Potential adverse effects associated with the use of isotretinoin include:

• eye and genital dryness
• chapped lips
• joint pains
• depression
• liver damage
• elevated lipid levels

Isotretinoin is a teratogenic drug. This means that taking it during pregnancy at any dose, even for a short time, can lead to congenital deformities.

Isotretinoin may also lead to the loss of the pregnancy or premature birth and can cause the death of the newborn infant.

Women who can become pregnant are, therefore, required to use two methods of contraception for 1 month before, during, and at least a month after treatment with isotretinoin.

Testing for pregnancy is also required before starting isotretinoin and then every month until 1 month after stopping the drug.

The conditions for being prescribed the drug include producing two negative pregnancy tests.

Steroid injections

Injecting a corticosteroid medication called triamcinolone directly into a cyst can help reduce inflammation and prevent scarring. This treatment is carried out by a dermatologist.

There may be short-lived localized side effects after the injection.

Dermatologists may also offer incision and drainage of certain large cysts, but it is strongly recommended that people do not attempt this themselves as it will likely worsen the skin problem and could cause serious scarring and deeper infection.

Birth control pills

Long-term treatment of acne in women can involve the birth control pill, which suppresses sebum production. Where appropriate, an oral medication containing estrogen and progesterone may be used for 6 months or more.

A drug called spironolactone (aldactone) may also be prescribed with the pill. This is a synthetic steroid that inhibits androgens. It is used off-label to treat acne in certain females. It has not been approved by the FDA for treatment of acne and should not be used in men.

Acne produces symptoms familiar to all of us. Cystic acne is even more visible because it is the most severe form and produces cysts and nodules alongside inflammatory papules and pustules. Acne can also cause visible scarring.

All forms of acne can affect self-esteem and mood, but the risk of psychological distress is higher for cystic acne as it typically has a greater impact on the appearance of the face and disproportionately affects young adults who may be more socially sensitive.

Most people with acne do not usually experience physical symptoms, but the skin’s appearance can cause emotional distress. In cystic acne, however, the distress may be greater, and the cysts may be painful.

The importance of treatment is underlined by the risk of scarring from long-term cystic acne. This can produce long-term and permanent damage in the form of:

• small, deep pits, known as “ice-pick scars”
• larger pits
• shallow depressions in the skin
• red, raised scars

The pores of the skin have sebaceous glands that secrete an oily substance known as sebum.

Normal sebum secretions help protect the hair follicles and skin, but overproduction of sebum and overgrowth of skin cells can cause the pores to become plugged. This can create the perfect conditions for the overgrowth of P. acnes.

Cysts are the most inflamed, ruptured type of acne.

The biggest factor causing acne is the hormonal changes in adolescent teenage years. During puberty, levels of circulating androgen hormones increase dramatically, which causes an increase in sebum production; skin cells also begin to grow quicker.

Acne is not confined to teenagers, however, and other factors are involved, including:

• hormonal changes related to the menstrual cycle, pregnancy, birth control, the use of hormone therapy, and stress
• greasy cosmetics, cleansers, lotions, and clothing
• high levels of humidity and sweating
• genetics, as some people are naturally more susceptible
• some drugs and chemicals, for example, corticosteroids, lithium, phenytoin, and isoniazid, which may worsen or cause eruptions that are similar to acne

There are numerous myths about the causes of acne, which blame factors that have been dismissed by scientific research.

Acne, including cystic acne, is not caused by:

• chocolate, nuts, or greasy foods
• most other dietary choices
• poor hygiene or inadequate face washing
• masturbation or sex

Practical measures to avoid making acne worse are useful for anyone with acne, including people with cystic acne:

• Do not wash too often: Twice a day is enough, use a mild soap or cleanser and lukewarm water.
• Do not scrub harshly when washing: Avoid abrasive soaps, cleansing granules, astringents, or exfoliating agents.
• Leave pimples alone: Picking and squeezing is likely to worsen the acne.
• Avoid using heavy makeup: When applying makeup, choose water-based, non-comedogenic formulations, avoid oily formulations, and make sure to remove makeup before bed.

If you have milder acne, or want to reduce the risk of developing acne on clear skin, the following steps can help:

• Clean the skin gently in the morning, before you go to sleep, and after strenuous exercise.
• Try to avoid touching the skin where possible.
• Shave with care and soften the beard with soapy water before grooming. Be sure to find the most comfortable shaving method for you and shave only when necessary.
• Avoid being over-exposed to the sun, as it can affect skin health and appearance.
• Shampoo the hair regularly. People with oily hair may want to do so daily.

There are other factors that cause and escalate acne, such as genetics, but these tips can help stop normal acne becoming cystic.

Cystic acne: Causes, symptoms, and treatments

We include products we think are useful for our readers. If you buy through links on this page, we may earn a small commission Here’s our process.

Medical News Today only shows you brands and products that we stand behind.

Our team thoroughly researches and evaluates the recommendations we make on our site. To establish that the product manufacturers addressed safety and efficacy standards, we:

• Evaluate ingredients and composition: Do they have the potential to cause harm?
• Fact-check all health claims: Do they align with the current body of scientific evidence?
• Assess the brand: Does it operate with integrity and adhere to industry best practices?

We do the research so you can find trusted products for your health and wellness.

Read more about our vetting process.

Was this helpful?

Cystic acne is a severe type of acne in which pore blockages lead to infection and inflammation.

The skin condition mainly affects the face, but also often affects the upper trunk and upper arms.

Acne most often affects adolescents and young adults, with an estimated 80 percent of people between 11 and 30 years of age experiencing acne at some point.

Cystic acne is the most severe form and affects far fewer people.

In 2009, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) found that acne was the top reason people gave for visiting a dermatologist.

Fast facts on cystic acne

Here are some key points about cystic acne. More details and supporting information is in the body of this article.

• While acne is very common, cystic acne is relatively uncommon and more severe.
• The main factors behind cystic acne are the hormonal changes in puberty, but it can occur in older individuals, too.
• Cystic acne is not caused by chocolate, nuts, or greasy foods, nor by poor hygiene or masturbation.
• Cystic acne can be painful, as well as emotionally distressing because of its effects on facial appearance.

The treatment of severe, cystic acne requires the help of a specialist doctor and some self-care measures. Drug treatment can be effective at preventing cysts and scarring.

Mild or moderate acne can be managed with the help of a doctor. However, severe acne characterized by nodules and cysts may need referral to a specialist, as it might leave scars or already show signs of scarring. This is partly because the main drugs used to treat cystic acne are tightly controlled.

Benzoyl peroxide

Benzoyl peroxide is a treatment available to people with acne of any severity. It is also a treatment option for people with severe acne who are awaiting specialist treatment.

Benzoyl peroxide is available directly from pharmacies over the counter in a number of formulations that may be applied to the skin. It has been a mainstay in the treatment of acne for over 50 years, and works by killing bacteria, particularly Propionibacterium acnes (P. acnes).

Some benzoyl peroxide treatments are also available to purchase online.

It also breaks up comedones. These include whiteheads and blackheads.

Water-based and alcohol-based formulations of benzoyl peroxide are available, and the most appropriate form depends on skin type. Alcohol-based preparations have a drying effect, making these more suitable for people with oily skin.

Benzoyl peroxide products, which include cleansing liquids and bars, lotions, creams, and gels, are used once or twice a day. The most common side-effect is skin irritation. Allergies do not commonly occur.

Drug treatment with isotretinoin

Isotretinoin is a prescription drug for the treatment of cystic acne, sold under a number of brand names in the United States, including Absorica, Amnesteem, Claravis, Myorisan, and Sotret.

Isotretinoin is a very effective treatment, but it has significant side effects and is dangerous to an unborn child. It is usually taken at a dosage of 1 milligram (mg) for every kilogram of body weight once daily for 16 to 20 weeks.

For cases of moderate acne, isotretinoin is not recommended until standard treatment with oral antibiotics has been tried and found to be ineffective. Isotretinoin is, however, recommended as a first-line treatment for severe acne.

Potential adverse effects associated with the use of isotretinoin include:

• eye and genital dryness
• chapped lips
• joint pains
• depression
• liver damage
• elevated lipid levels

Isotretinoin is a teratogenic drug. This means that taking it during pregnancy at any dose, even for a short time, can lead to congenital deformities.

Isotretinoin may also lead to the loss of the pregnancy or premature birth and can cause the death of the newborn infant.

Women who can become pregnant are, therefore, required to use two methods of contraception for 1 month before, during, and at least a month after treatment with isotretinoin.

Testing for pregnancy is also required before starting isotretinoin and then every month until 1 month after stopping the drug.

The conditions for being prescribed the drug include producing two negative pregnancy tests.

Steroid injections

Injecting a corticosteroid medication called triamcinolone directly into a cyst can help reduce inflammation and prevent scarring. This treatment is carried out by a dermatologist.

There may be short-lived localized side effects after the injection.

Dermatologists may also offer incision and drainage of certain large cysts, but it is strongly recommended that people do not attempt this themselves as it will likely worsen the skin problem and could cause serious scarring and deeper infection.

Birth control pills

Long-term treatment of acne in women can involve the birth control pill, which suppresses sebum production. Where appropriate, an oral medication containing estrogen and progesterone may be used for 6 months or more.

A drug called spironolactone (aldactone) may also be prescribed with the pill. This is a synthetic steroid that inhibits androgens. It is used off-label to treat acne in certain females. It has not been approved by the FDA for treatment of acne and should not be used in men.

Acne produces symptoms familiar to all of us. Cystic acne is even more visible because it is the most severe form and produces cysts and nodules alongside inflammatory papules and pustules. Acne can also cause visible scarring.

All forms of acne can affect self-esteem and mood, but the risk of psychological distress is higher for cystic acne as it typically has a greater impact on the appearance of the face and disproportionately affects young adults who may be more socially sensitive.

Most people with acne do not usually experience physical symptoms, but the skin’s appearance can cause emotional distress. In cystic acne, however, the distress may be greater, and the cysts may be painful.

The importance of treatment is underlined by the risk of scarring from long-term cystic acne. This can produce long-term and permanent damage in the form of:

• small, deep pits, known as “ice-pick scars”
• larger pits
• shallow depressions in the skin
• red, raised scars

The pores of the skin have sebaceous glands that secrete an oily substance known as sebum.

Normal sebum secretions help protect the hair follicles and skin, but overproduction of sebum and overgrowth of skin cells can cause the pores to become plugged. This can create the perfect conditions for the overgrowth of P. acnes.

Cysts are the most inflamed, ruptured type of acne.

The biggest factor causing acne is the hormonal changes in adolescent teenage years. During puberty, levels of circulating androgen hormones increase dramatically, which causes an increase in sebum production; skin cells also begin to grow quicker.

Acne is not confined to teenagers, however, and other factors are involved, including:

• hormonal changes related to the menstrual cycle, pregnancy, birth control, the use of hormone therapy, and stress
• greasy cosmetics, cleansers, lotions, and clothing
• high levels of humidity and sweating
• genetics, as some people are naturally more susceptible
• some drugs and chemicals, for example, corticosteroids, lithium, phenytoin, and isoniazid, which may worsen or cause eruptions that are similar to acne

There are numerous myths about the causes of acne, which blame factors that have been dismissed by scientific research.

Acne, including cystic acne, is not caused by:

• chocolate, nuts, or greasy foods
• most other dietary choices
• poor hygiene or inadequate face washing
• masturbation or sex

Practical measures to avoid making acne worse are useful for anyone with acne, including people with cystic acne:

• Do not wash too often: Twice a day is enough, use a mild soap or cleanser and lukewarm water.
• Do not scrub harshly when washing: Avoid abrasive soaps, cleansing granules, astringents, or exfoliating agents.
• Leave pimples alone: Picking and squeezing is likely to worsen the acne.
• Avoid using heavy makeup: When applying makeup, choose water-based, non-comedogenic formulations, avoid oily formulations, and make sure to remove makeup before bed.

If you have milder acne, or want to reduce the risk of developing acne on clear skin, the following steps can help:

• Clean the skin gently in the morning, before you go to sleep, and after strenuous exercise.
• Try to avoid touching the skin where possible.
• Shave with care and soften the beard with soapy water before grooming. Be sure to find the most comfortable shaving method for you and shave only when necessary.
• Avoid being over-exposed to the sun, as it can affect skin health and appearance.
• Shampoo the hair regularly. People with oily hair may want to do so daily.

There are other factors that cause and escalate acne, such as genetics, but these tips can help stop normal acne becoming cystic.

how to recognize and how to treat

Acne is the most common skin problem, which affects about 90% of the world’s population in their lifetime. Acne is different: those that appear in adolescence against the background of a hormonal surge, and those that can occur even in adulthood. Today we will talk about the most severe and aggressive form of acne – cystic acne. Why they appear, what consequences they leave behind, and how to treat them – you will find the answers to all these questions in our material!

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acne

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how to remove a pimple

Cystic pimples or boils are considered a rare and serious form of acne that occurs when pores or hair follicles on the skin become clogged with sebum or other impurities. This type of acne has no age: it can break out both in a teenager and in older people with hormonal imbalances. Why cystic acne appears and how to distinguish it from another type of acne – let’s figure it out!

Do not self-medicate! In our articles, we collect the latest scientific data and the opinions of authoritative health experts. But remember: only a doctor can diagnose and prescribe treatment.

Why cystic acne occurs

This type of acne is considered the most severe, because cysts in this case form deep under the skin. Inflammation in this case is provoked by contamination of the pores, which are clogged with bacteria, sebum and dead skin cells. At the same time, an unbalanced diet or poor skin hygiene are not the cause of cystic acne.

Cystic acne can appear in anyone, but still they “love” the owners of oily skin most of all. They are also common in adolescents, women in adulthood and older people with hormonal failure.

Acne all over the face: how a girl has been struggling with acne for 8 years

Cystic acne can go away on its own with age, but most often these painful and large rashes need specially selected treatment. If you have cystic acne, then a dermatologist should become your faithful and reliable friend for a long time. Only he will be able to choose the right treatment to solve this serious problem.

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How to distinguish cystic acne

Cystic acne is a boil on the skin of a rather large size. As a rule, they are also distinguished by a white purulent head. These signs will help you distinguish cystic eruptions from other types of acne:

• large, pus-filled pimple head;
• severe reddening of the skin;
• sensitive or painful rash.

Cystic pimples most commonly appear on the face, but can also affect other areas of the body, such as the chest, neck, back, and arms. In rare cases, cystic acne occurs even on the shoulders or behind the ears.

How to Treat Cystic Acne

Due to the complexity of this type of acne, most OTC products are not effective enough to treat. This means only one thing: when cystic acne appears, you should immediately contact a dermatologist who will select the right therapy and write a prescription for the necessary drugs.

However, one should not expect an instant effect from these drugs: most often, the result can be seen only after 8 weeks after the start of medication. In some cases, the doctor may choose a combined treatment with drugs of different types of action.

The following are commonly used to treat cystic acne:

• drugs with the active ingredient isotretinoin – their use is accompanied by a lot of dangerous side effects, so only a doctor should select the recommended dose;
• antibiotics – they fight the causative agent of a bacterial infection and relieve inflammation, but can only be used in the short term;
• topical retinoids are vitamin A derivatives available in creams, gels and lotions. They are usually prescribed in tandem with antibiotics – the decision, again, is solely up to the doctor. However, it should be borne in mind that retinoids can cause dryness and redness of the skin – usually the side effect disappears after the skin gets used to it;
• doctor-prescribed diuretics – they can regulate the level of androgens that cause inflammation in the skin. These drugs are strictly prohibited for women planning a pregnancy, as well as for people with kidney disease;
• oral contraceptives – These hormonal drugs can help treat cystic acne in women whose skin breakouts are related to hormonal changes during the menstrual cycle. Only a doctor can prescribe them.

Treatment of cystic acne scars

Cystic acne leaves behind the largest number of scars in comparison with all other types of acne. To reduce the risk of the formation of terrible “bumps” on the skin, you should forever forget about the habit of squeezing or picking rashes. Physical exposure can also spread the infection even further, making it even more difficult to get rid of acne.

Why pimples appear in winter and how to have clear and radiant skin even in cold weather

If you still have cystic acne scars, there are several ways to make them less visible. However, these measures should be applied only after the rashes themselves have been dealt with.

So, to get rid of scars on the skin helps:

• chemical peeling;
• dermabrasion;
• laser resurfacing.

How to Prevent Cystic Acne

Taking care of your skin is the best way to reduce your risk of cystic acne. Here are some tips to help you avoid breakouts.

Wash your face once a day – in the evening

To cleanse your face, use mild products that will not overdry the skin. Do not get carried away with belongings – hard particles in their composition can only aggravate the inflammatory process.

Don’t pop pimples

Physical pressure on even less aggressive forms of acne can lead to cystic pimples.

Use oil-free cosmetics

These products clog pores less, and therefore reduce the risk of acne.

Don’t go to bed with makeup on

It has long been known that you will not get any benefit from sleeping in full war paint.

Avoid stress

Stress is also strongly associated with the appearance of skin rashes, so it is best to minimize the irritants in your life as much as possible.

Avoid foods with a high glycemic index

White bread, rice, pasta and sweets in large quantities can also lead to acne on the skin.

Photo: Shutterstock

How to care for skin with cystic acne

people will experience acne in one form or another between the ages of 11 and 30,
cystic acne is actually very rare. For this reason, people with
cystic acne is often unaware that their unique skin condition requires
different treatment plan compared to skin care for people with other forms
acne. According to Dr. Arati Ran of US Dermatology Partners in
Sherman and Paris, Texas, “recently, cystic acne has attracted
attention thanks to the fact that several celebrities spoke about their
combating this difficult-to-manage skin condition, but it is still unknown
most people. Raised awareness is a great start, and more
it is always better for a number of people to understand what kind of state it is and what good
options for managing it. In this article, Dr. Rana will talk about all
skin care basics for cystic acne and how a dermatologist can help
you to cope with this painful condition.

What is cystic acne

Cystic acne is a rare and serious form
acne vulgaris, a skin condition that occurs when pores or hairline
the follicles become clogged with skin cells, oil, and other foreign matter.
Clogged pores can trap bacteria, particularly Propionibacterium acnes
(P. acnes), under the skin, leading to inflammation and infection, which forms
pimples (open and closed comedones, often referred to as black and white
points). In very severe forms of acne, the patient may experience more
larger, deeper, or more painful pimples such as papules, pustules,
nodules and cysts.

As the name suggests, those who have
diagnosed with cystic acne, often there are cysts, sacs filled with
fluid and foreign body that form under the skin. These cysts are growing
very deep into the inner layers of the dermis and can be very painful on
touch. Cystic acne can also become infected. Cysts usually form on
face, but they also often develop on the shoulders, back, chest and sides, as well as
on hands. Like other forms of acne, most people develop cysts in
adolescence with sharp hormonal fluctuations due to sexual
maturation. However, cystic acne does not always go away when teenagers reach
maturity, and there are cases where this disease develops in adults or people
younger age.

Causes

According to Dr. Rana, “almost all types of acne
formed during adolescence, when changes in hormone levels lead to
increased production of sebum (oil). This oil is natural
produced by the body to keep skin hydrated, but too much oil
can clog pores and trap P. acnes bacteria, resulting in
acne. In people with cystic acne, these clogged pores cause infection and
inflammation deep in the layers of the skin. Cystic acne is almost always caused by
an influx of androgenic hormones coupled with rapid cell growth that
occurs during adolescence, but there are other potential causes
cysts that will affect the dermatologist’s recommendations for treatment and daily
care.”

In addition to hormonal changes in adolescents,
common causes of cystic acne include:

●
Hormonal changes associated with
pregnancy.

Adverse reactions to skin care
or cosmetics.

Performing exercises in close quarters
materials that do not allow air to pass through, often leads to cystic acne on the body
or exacerbate them.

Humidity and perspiration.

●
genetic predisposition
(presence of acne in one or more family members).

Exposure to chemicals or
toxins.

The use of lithium and
corticosteroids.

Features
treatment

cystic acne and other forms of acne, Dr. Rana says, “Because
cysts form so deep in the layers of the skin, they are more likely to
cause scarring, so it is important to take care of new pimples as they
arise to avoid these long-term problems. Cooperation with
a dermatologist should be an important part of your treatment plan.” Below Dr. Rana
Explained what can and cannot be done.

What
do

The following steps will help maintain the appearance and
the well-being of your skin:

●
Wash your face in the morning, evening and after
sweating with a mild cleanser.

Apply moisturizer to
reduce excessive sebum secretion.

Choose your makeup carefully
skin care products and other products – look for labels that say
non-comedogenic and/or oil-free

Plucking, waxing and
shaving can adversely affect hair follicles, leading to
inflammation and breakouts, so choose soft foods and be very
careful.

Seek professional
dermatological intervention, especially with severe rash.

Take steps to minimize
stress, which can increase cortisol levels, leading to breakouts

●
Exfoliate your skin regularly to
Do not clog pores with dead cells.

What not
do

In addition to health advice
skin, please note the following:

●
Don’t wash too much
too much, this can dry out the skin, leading to increased sebum production.
fat.

Don’t use harsh
exfoliators, which can damage the skin or increase inflammation
instead look for gentle exfoliating products and follow the recommendations
dermatologist.

Do not pop cysts as this
can cause the rash to spread and increase the risk of infection and scarring.

Dermatological treatments

cystic acne should work with a dermatologist to control their
symptoms and maintain skin health.

Dermatologists can offer a range of treatments
cystic acne treatments, including:

Removal – can be safely and
effectively remove large, painful cysts, minimizing the risk of formation
scarring and infection.