Cystic Acne

Acne is a very common skin condition and most people only experience mild cases of it. Many people have it in their teen years and then it goes away and they only get an occasional blemish. Unfortunately, some people have very severe acne that never seems to go away even with treatments. One of these types of severe acne is cystic acne.

Cystic acne - like all types of severe acne- is more than just annoying. It can be very painful and can also be devastating to a person’s self esteem. It can cause scarring that will also affect people after the acne has cleared. Cystic acne causes emotion and psychological problems that can affect you for a very long time.

What is Cystic Acne?

This severe acne can be classified as acne vulgaris and can have nodules and cysts. Cystic acne is basically severe acne that causes cysts. Acne cysts are similar to nodules but they are pus filled and are typically 5mm or more across. Cystic acne is typically very painful and can cause scarring. People with cystic acne feel the results of acne even after the acne itself has cleared up.

Just like any type of acne, you should never squeeze or pop the cysts. This can be very painful and will lead to infection and scarring. You should also talk to your dermatologist about techniques that are available to reduce the swelling of the cysts. This will help prevent possible scarring.

Symptoms of Cystic Acne

There are different symptoms of cystic acne. For example:

• Cysts
• Open and closed comedones
• Pus pockets
• Lesions and infected scabs
• Raised, red skin
• Pain, soreness and itching
• Scarring

This type of acne is typically worse in males and may improve in summer. It most often occurs during puberty but can also happen in a person in their 20s and 30s. Women may experience it worse before menstruation.

Treatment for Cystic Acne

You don’t have to live with cystic acne forever. So what types of treatment are available if you have cystic acne? There are different treatment methods available but typically cystic acne will require a prescription drug like Accutane (isotretinoin). There are advantages and disadvantages to this medication and your doctor will discuss that with you if it is considered and option.
Regular and proper skin care is also very important to the treatment of cystic acne. Your doctor or dermatologist can also help you create a skin care regimen that will help you. You should avoid greasy or oily cosmetics and lotions. You should wash your face gently with a mild cleanser and not try to scrub too hard. You should also avoid picking, scratching or touching your face when not necessary.

Other treatments may include removing comedones with a comedone extractor. Dermabrasion is also sometimes used and another option is intra-lesion injections. Your treatment may take up to six weeks to see full results so just be patient.