How to Treat Cystic Acne

Acne affects most people at some time in their lives. Cystic acne is the most severe type of common acne and is identified through the presence of painful red lumps under the skin that feel soft as if they are filled with fluid. This skin problem can be challenging for those afflicted as they try to determine how to treat cystic acne. Proper treatment is essential as cysts can become quite large covering several centimeters in diameter and causing permanent scars.

Cystic acne shares the same causes as other forms of common acne including hormone changes, the use of greasy or oily skin products, and excess sweating. In some people the use of medications containing steroids, phenytoin, testosterone, and estrogen may play a role their breakouts. Each of these causes ultimately results in changes to the oil content of the skin and the subsequent clogging of the sebaceous glands. In general, acne affects teenagers more than adults as they are prone to more radical changes in hormone levels; however, people of any age can be impacted. The propensity to develop cysts with breakouts runs in families so those with parents who suffered are more likely to have cystic acne. Fortunately, views on how to treat cystic acne have changed since the last generation’s teenage years.

Many acne sufferers start their exploration into cystic acne treatment with home remedies. Preventing acne breakouts is the first line of defense and can best be accomplished through proper care of the skin. This includes washing afflicted areas twice a day with a mild and non-drying cleanser while avoiding squeezing, picking, or otherwise irritating existing lesions. Avoid depositing extra oil onto the surface of the skin by keeping hands away from areas prone to breakouts and using only noncomedogenic skin products with a water rather than oil base. If prevention methods are not enough, the next step in how to treat cystic acne at home is to utilize medicated skin products available over-the-counter in cream or cleanser form. The active ingredients in drug store treatments are peroxide, salicylic acid, resorcinol, or sulfur which dry up excess oils on the skin.

Though home-based methods may help control flare-ups cystic acne can be more resistant than less severe lesions and may require medical intervention. Professional treatments range from oral and topical medications to cosmetic skin procedures. Medications provided are often stronger doses of over-the-counter treatments; however, antibiotics are needed in some cases. Some oral contraceptives have acne fighting powers and may simplify a woman’s approach on how to treat cystic acne. For severe cases skin procedures including laser treatments, chemical peels, and injection of cortisone directly into the worst cysts can be a last resort. Cystic acne is challenging and may require multiple treatment methods or a combination of methods before significant improvement is seen. There is no single approach on how to treat cystic acne so those impacted must be patient and willing to explore the options.