What are the main causes of cystic acne. How can you recognize the symptoms of cystic acne. What are the most effective treatments for severe cystic acne. Why is isotretinoin considered a powerful but risky treatment option. How does benzoyl peroxide help manage cystic acne breakouts.

Understanding Cystic Acne: A Severe Form of Skin Inflammation

Cystic acne represents the most severe form of acne vulgaris, characterized by deep, inflamed lesions that can be painful and leave lasting scars. While acne affects up to 80% of adolescents and young adults, cystic acne is less common but more serious in its manifestation and potential consequences.

This skin condition primarily affects the face but can also appear on the upper trunk and arms. Unlike milder forms of acne, cystic acne requires specialized treatment and often the intervention of a dermatologist to manage effectively.

Key Characteristics of Cystic Acne

• Deep, painful lesions filled with pus
• Large, inflamed bumps that can last for weeks or months
• Higher risk of scarring compared to other forms of acne
• Often resistant to over-the-counter treatments
• Can cause significant emotional distress due to its visibility

The Root Causes of Cystic Acne Development

Understanding the underlying causes of cystic acne is crucial for effective treatment and prevention. While the exact mechanisms are complex, several key factors contribute to its development:

Hormonal Fluctuations

Hormonal changes, particularly during puberty, play a significant role in triggering cystic acne. The increase in androgen hormones stimulates sebum production, which can lead to clogged pores and bacterial growth.

Genetics

A family history of severe acne can increase an individual’s likelihood of developing cystic acne. Genetic factors may influence how the skin responds to hormonal changes and its susceptibility to inflammation.

Bacterial Overgrowth

Propionibacterium acnes (P. acnes) bacteria, naturally present on the skin, can multiply rapidly in clogged pores, leading to inflammation and the formation of cystic lesions.

Inflammation

The body’s inflammatory response to blocked pores and bacterial overgrowth contributes to the formation of deep, painful cysts characteristic of this condition.

Do certain foods cause cystic acne? Contrary to popular belief, cystic acne is not directly caused by consuming chocolate, nuts, or greasy foods. Similarly, poor hygiene or sexual activities like masturbation do not lead to cystic acne development. These are myths that have been debunked by scientific research.

Recognizing the Symptoms of Cystic Acne

Identifying cystic acne is crucial for seeking appropriate treatment. The symptoms of cystic acne are distinct from those of milder forms of acne:

• Large, painful lumps beneath the skin’s surface
• Redness and swelling around the affected areas
• Pus-filled lesions that may burst and spread infection
• Nodules that persist for weeks or even months
• Scarring or skin discoloration after lesions heal

How can you differentiate cystic acne from regular pimples? Cystic acne lesions are typically larger, deeper, and more painful than regular pimples. They often feel like hard, tender lumps under the skin and may not come to a head like typical whiteheads or blackheads.

Effective Treatment Options for Cystic Acne

Managing cystic acne requires a comprehensive approach, often combining multiple treatment strategies. Here are some of the most effective options:

Topical Treatments

While over-the-counter treatments may not be sufficient for cystic acne, prescription-strength topical medications can help:

• Retinoids (e.g., tretinoin, adapalene)
• Antibiotics (e.g., clindamycin, erythromycin)
• Benzoyl peroxide

Oral Medications

For severe cases, oral medications may be prescribed:

• Antibiotics (e.g., tetracyclines)
• Hormonal treatments (e.g., oral contraceptives for women)
• Isotretinoin (for severe, treatment-resistant cases)

Procedural Treatments

In-office procedures can complement other treatments:

• Corticosteroid injections to reduce inflammation
• Chemical peels
• Laser therapy
• Extraction of large cysts

The Role of Benzoyl Peroxide in Cystic Acne Management

Benzoyl peroxide has been a cornerstone in acne treatment for over five decades. Its effectiveness in managing cystic acne stems from its multiple mechanisms of action:

• Antibacterial properties: Kills P. acnes bacteria
• Keratolytic effects: Helps break down comedones (whiteheads and blackheads)
• Anti-inflammatory action: Reduces redness and swelling

How should benzoyl peroxide be used for cystic acne? Benzoyl peroxide is available in various formulations, including cleansers, lotions, creams, and gels. For cystic acne, higher concentrations (5-10%) may be more effective. It’s typically applied once or twice daily, but start with a lower concentration to assess skin tolerance.

Choosing the Right Formulation

The choice between water-based and alcohol-based benzoyl peroxide products depends on your skin type:

• Water-based: Suitable for normal to dry skin
• Alcohol-based: Better for oily skin due to its drying effect

While benzoyl peroxide is generally well-tolerated, some users may experience skin irritation. If this occurs, reducing the frequency of application or switching to a lower concentration can help.

Isotretinoin: A Powerful but Controversial Treatment

Isotretinoin, known by various brand names including Absorica and Claravis, is a potent oral medication reserved for severe, treatment-resistant cystic acne. It’s highly effective but comes with significant risks and side effects.

How Isotretinoin Works

Isotretinoin targets multiple factors contributing to cystic acne:

• Reduces sebum production
• Decreases inflammation
• Inhibits bacterial growth
• Normalizes skin cell turnover

What is the typical treatment course for isotretinoin? The standard treatment regimen involves taking 1 mg per kilogram of body weight daily for 16 to 20 weeks. However, the dosage and duration may be adjusted based on individual response and tolerability.

Potential Side Effects and Risks

While effective, isotretinoin can cause several side effects:

• Dryness of skin, lips, and mucous membranes
• Joint pain
• Elevated lipid levels
• Liver function abnormalities
• Mood changes, including depression

The most serious concern with isotretinoin is its teratogenic potential. It can cause severe birth defects if taken during pregnancy. For this reason, strict contraception measures are required for women of childbearing age undergoing isotretinoin treatment.

Holistic Approaches to Managing Cystic Acne

While medical treatments are often necessary for cystic acne, holistic approaches can complement these interventions and support overall skin health:

Dietary Considerations

Though diet doesn’t directly cause cystic acne, some dietary modifications may help:

• Reducing dairy intake, particularly skim milk
• Limiting high-glycemic foods
• Increasing consumption of omega-3 fatty acids
• Ensuring adequate zinc intake

Stress Management

Stress can exacerbate acne by triggering hormonal changes and inflammation. Implementing stress-reduction techniques such as meditation, yoga, or regular exercise may help manage cystic acne.

Skincare Routine

A gentle, consistent skincare routine is crucial:

• Use non-comedogenic products
• Avoid harsh scrubbing or over-cleansing
• Moisturize regularly to support skin barrier function
• Use sunscreen daily to prevent post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation

How often should you cleanse your face when dealing with cystic acne? Cleansing twice daily is generally sufficient. Over-cleansing can strip the skin of natural oils, potentially leading to increased oil production and irritation.

The Psychological Impact of Cystic Acne

The visible nature of cystic acne can have significant psychological effects on individuals. Understanding and addressing these impacts is an essential part of comprehensive cystic acne management.

Common Psychological Effects

• Lowered self-esteem and confidence
• Social anxiety and withdrawal
• Depression and mood disturbances
• Body dysmorphic tendencies

How can individuals cope with the emotional toll of cystic acne? Seeking support from mental health professionals, joining support groups, and practicing self-compassion can be beneficial. It’s important to remember that acne does not define a person’s worth or beauty.

Building a Support System

Creating a supportive environment is crucial for individuals dealing with cystic acne:

• Educate friends and family about the condition
• Connect with others who have similar experiences
• Work with a dermatologist who understands the emotional aspects of skin conditions

Addressing the psychological impact of cystic acne is not just about improving mental health; it can also positively influence treatment adherence and overall outcomes.

Preventing Cystic Acne Scarring

One of the most concerning aspects of cystic acne is its potential to leave permanent scars. Taking proactive steps to prevent scarring is crucial:

Early Intervention

Seeking treatment at the first signs of cystic acne can significantly reduce the risk of scarring. Don’t wait for lesions to become severe before consulting a dermatologist.

Avoid Picking or Squeezing

Manipulating cystic lesions can lead to further inflammation and increase the likelihood of scarring. Resist the urge to pop or pick at cysts, no matter how tempting it may be.

Proper Wound Care

If a cyst does rupture, gentle cleansing and applying an antibiotic ointment can help prevent infection and minimize scarring.

Sun Protection

UV exposure can worsen post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation. Using a broad-spectrum sunscreen daily is essential for preventing long-term discoloration.

What treatments are available for existing cystic acne scars? For those already dealing with scars, treatments such as chemical peels, microneedling, laser therapy, and dermal fillers can help improve skin texture and appearance. The most appropriate treatment depends on the type and severity of scarring.

Emerging Treatments and Research in Cystic Acne Management

The field of dermatology continues to evolve, with ongoing research into new treatments for cystic acne. Some promising areas include:

Targeted Therapies

Researchers are exploring treatments that target specific pathways involved in acne development, such as sebum production inhibitors and anti-inflammatory agents.

Microbiome Modulation

Understanding the role of skin microbiome in acne is leading to novel approaches, including probiotics and prebiotics for skin health.

Advanced Drug Delivery Systems

Nanotechnology and other innovative delivery methods are being developed to enhance the efficacy of existing acne treatments while minimizing side effects.

Combination Therapies

Researchers are investigating optimal combinations of existing treatments to enhance efficacy and reduce side effects.

What potential breakthroughs can we expect in cystic acne treatment? While it’s difficult to predict specific breakthroughs, the trend towards personalized medicine suggests future treatments may be tailored to individual genetic and microbial profiles for more effective management of cystic acne.

As research progresses, individuals with cystic acne can look forward to potentially more effective and less invasive treatment options in the future. However, it’s important to work with current evidence-based treatments while staying informed about emerging options.

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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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.

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The consequences of delayed acne treatment

Untimely acne treatment

Acne is one of the most common skin problems, affecting about 90% of all people during their lifetime. While acne usually occurs during adolescence and young adulthood, it can also occur in your 20s, 30s, and even 40s.

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Many people do not go to the doctor, relying on the fact that they will disappear by themselves, but in the absence of timely treatment and finding out the cause of their occurrence, acne can threaten with serious consequences. Therefore, here, more than anywhere else, prevention is important.

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How does acne develop?

The sebaceous glands of the skin, attached to the hair follicles, secrete an oily, semi-fluid substance called sebum, which softens our hair and skin.

Pores and hair follicles become clogged with sebum, dead skin cells, bacteria, and white or blackheads form from here.

Cystic pimples or boils are severe forms of acne in which the pores on the skin become blocked, leading to infection and inflammation.

Cystic Acne Facts:

Cystic acne

• cystic acne is relatively rare and more severe

• factors that cause cystic acne are hormonal changes during puberty, as well as advanced acne

• cystic acne is not caused by nutrition or poor hygiene pimples are painful and cause severe emotional distress

Depending on the severity and individual characteristics, the doctor selects an individual therapy. It is important to understand that therapy is long-term, and the funds should be used for several months. Treatment of severe acne especially requires the help of a dermatologist, since cystic acne or furunculosis often cannot be cured on its own.

Severe forms of acne are fraught with scarring, posing and scarring. Drugs must be carefully selected and a purely individual drug treatment prescribed. Often, the main medications used to treat cystic acne are under strict control and prescription.

Benzoyl Peroxide

Benzoyl Peroxide is a treatment indicated for people with acne of any severity. Benzoyl peroxide is available from pharmacies without a prescription in a variety of formulations suitable for every skin type. For more than 50 years, benzoyl peroxide has been the mainstay of acne treatment and kills bacteria, in particular Propionibacterium acnes, the drug also eliminates comedones: whiteheads and blackheads.

Comedo removal

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

Isotretinoin Acne Drug Treatment

Isotretinoin is a prescription drug for the treatment of cystic acne sold under several brand names. Isotretinoin is a very effective treatment, but it has significant side effects and is dangerous for pregnant women, leading to pregnancy loss, premature birth, or birth defects in the baby. It is usually taken at a dose of 1 milligram (mg) per kilogram of body weight once a day for 16 to 20 weeks.

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In cases of moderate acne, isotretinoin is not recommended until standard oral antibiotic treatment has been tried and proven to be ineffective. However, isotretinoin is recommended as a first aid treatment for severe acne.

Treatment of acne

Side effects associated with the use of isotretinoin include:

Steroid injections for acne

Corticosteroid injections can help reduce inflammation and prevent scarring. This treatment is carried out by a dermalologist.