Cystic Acne: Common Causes And Treatments
Cystic acne refers to cysts or pimples that are filled with pus and located deep within the dermal layer of the skin. The cysts are red, inflamed, and painful, and they may become very large. In addition to the facial area, cystic acne can develop on other parts of the body such as the back, shoulders, arms, scalp, neck, and buttocks. It is essential that you see a dermatologist to treat your cystic acne to help lower your risk for infection and scarring. Here are some common causes of cystic acne and effective dermatology treatment options.
Cystic Acne Causes
Regular acne is very common, while cystic acne is less common. When the pores of your skin become clogged with sebum and dead skin cells, pimples develop. If bacteria get inside the pores and mixes with the sebum and dead skin cells, it may result in deep inflammation of the dermis. This process may then lead to a swollen, discolored, and infected lump known as a cystic acne lump.
Teenagers may be more likely to develop cystic acne, as are people who have a family history of cystic acne. In addition, it is thought that hormonal changes that are seen during times of stress, the teen years, pregnancy, and menopause may also raise the risk of developing cystic acne. It is also important to note that cystic acne is not caused by eating greasy foods, allergic reactions, touching the skin with unclean hands, or having poor hygiene.
Treatments For Cystic Acne
Your dermatologist will recommend a treatment plan for your cystic acne based on their findings during your dermatology examination. They may prescribe antibiotics to resolve infected cystic acne; however, other medications such as isotretinoin may also be prescribed for a few months or more.
In addition to prescription medications, over-the-counter products containing benzoyl peroxide may help clear up mild to moderate cases of cystic acne. Benzoyl peroxide may be found in various products such as gels, facial cleansing liquids, lotions, and bars of soap. These products can be used up to a couple of times a day and are generally well-tolerated. Allergic reactions are rare; however, minor skin irritation may occur.
If you develop cystic acne, make an appointment with a local dermatologist. When diagnosed and treated early, you may be less likely to develop complications of cystic acne such as scarring of the skin and a severe bacterial skin infection known as cellulitis.
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