Cystic Acne 101
Inflammation, redness, pain, and pustules — cystic acne is a painful, frustrating condition that can make you feel self-conscious and hopeless.
…but there’s hope, with the help of a board-certified dermatologist
What is Cystic Acne?
Cystic acne is the most severe type of acne, and it can be difficult to get rid of. It typically starts with cysts that form under the skin. These cysts are filled with pus, which causes more inflammation and pain from bacterial infections. If the cysts break open, without proper treatment, the bacteria spread, leading to worsening breakouts.
What Treatments Work Best?
There isn’t one definitive answer when it comes to treating cystic acne – what works for one person might not work for another. However, some common treatments include antibiotics, topical creams or gels, and oral medications such as isotretinoin (Accutane). Sometimes, a dermatologist may need to drain the cysts in a controlled environment to prevent the bacterial spread and worsening symptoms.
Prescriptions and Products
Oftentimes cystic acne is resistant to topical creams and can require a prescription medication. The most common types of prescriptions are antibiotics, retinoids, and isotretinoin.
- Antibiotics kill cystic bacteria, reducing pain and inflammation and improving skin quality and health.
- Isotretinoin (commonly known by its brand name Accutane) is a powerful prescription that clears up the worst cases of acne. However, it also causes dryness and irritation, so it’s important you follow your dermatologist’s instructions carefully when taking this drug.
- Retinoids help exfoliate the skin which helps promote better cell turnover that may prevent future breakouts from forming under the surface of your skin. Like Accutane, retinoids can cause other issues if instructions aren’t carefully followed. Many patients get excited about seeing results and will use too much, causing dryness and other symptoms. Follow the instructions; don’t be in a hurry.
Dermatology Treatments for Cystic Acne
In addition to prescription oral and topical medications, a dermatologist may recommend medical-grade skincare products and aesthetic dermatology procedures to treat your acne, such as extractions and blemish injections. Routine facials, chemical peels, photo rejuvenation/light-based treatments, and microdermabrasion are also useful in treating cystic acne and maintaining healthy skin after acne clears.
Don’t Try to Treat Cystic Acne at Home
Over-the-counter products and self-extraction often make your condition worse, increasing pain and inflammation and the risk of scars. It’s incredibly important that you seek support from a board-certified dermatologist who can assess and treat your cystic acne correctly. This helps you avoid a lot of pain, wasted time, and wasted money on remedies that won’t actually work.
Why Choose the Laser and Skin Surgery Center of Indiana (LASSI) for Cystic Acne Help?
The LASSI is an Indianapolis dermatology practice that combines medical and cosmetic treatment for acne relief.
In addition to delivering treatments for improved skin health and appearance, our board-certified dermatologist Dr. C. William Hanke, and our staff of dermatology professionals have conducted clinical trials for acne remedies. Dr. Hanke is well regarded in dermatology and has served on many national boards and associations, including the previous president of the American Academy of Dermatology (AAD).
Book a Consultation at the LASSI
Do you want to get rid of your cystic acne and regain your confidence? Today is the day to schedule an appointment at the Laser and Skin Surgery Center of Indiana. Dr. Hanke and our team of expert dermatology specialists are here to help you look and feel great.
Lastly, don’t forget about self-care–take time out every day for yourself no matter how busy life gets! You deserve some “me time” so be sure to not neglect yourself.
