Best Cystic Acne Treatments Backed by Dermatologists

Cystic acne is one of the most severe forms of acne, characterized by deep, painful, and inflamed pimples that often appear on the face, neck, back, and shoulders. Unlike typical acne, which is usually limited to whiteheads, blackheads, and pimples, cystic acne can lead to scarring and long-term skin issues if not treated properly.

At Sylvania Pharmacy, we understand how difficult it can be to manage cystic acne, but we’re here to help guide you through some of the most effective treatments for this challenging condition. In this article, we’ll explore what cystic acne is, why it occurs, and the best treatment options available, many of which are backed by dermatologists.

What Is Cystic Acne?

Cystic acne develops when hair follicles become clogged with oil, dead skin cells, and bacteria. Unlike milder forms of acne, cystic acne involves inflammation beneath the skin’s surface, leading to the formation of painful cysts. These cysts are filled with pus and can often be quite large, making them visibly noticeable.

Symptoms of Cystic Acne:

• Deep, red, and painful cysts beneath the skin

• Large, inflamed pimples

• Pustules filled with pus

• Acne that doesn’t respond to over-the-counter treatments

• Scarring or dark spots that can persist after the acne heals

Causes of Cystic Acne

Several factors contribute to the development of cystic acne, including:

1. Hormonal Changes: During puberty, menstruation, pregnancy, or due to certain hormonal disorders, increased levels of hormones like androgens can increase oil production, leading to clogged pores.

2. Genetics: If your parents had severe acne, you may be more likely to develop cystic acne yourself.

3. Bacterial Growth: The bacteria Propionibacterium acnes can grow within clogged pores, leading to inflammation and cyst formation.

4. Excessive Oil Production: The overproduction of oil in the skin can clog pores, trapping bacteria and dead skin cells, which can lead to cystic acne.

5. Stress: While stress alone may not cause cystic acne, it can exacerbate the condition by increasing oil production in the skin.

Best Cystic Acne Treatments

Cystic acne is best treated under the guidance of a healthcare professional, often involving a combination of topical and oral medications, lifestyle changes, and sometimes professional treatments. Below are the treatments commonly recommended by dermatologists to help manage cystic acne.

1. Topical Retinoids

Retinoids, derived from vitamin A, are commonly prescribed for acne. They work by promoting skin cell turnover, preventing clogged pores, and reducing inflammation. Retinoids can also help to improve skin texture and reduce the appearance of acne scars.

How to Use: Apply a thin layer to the affected area once a day, usually in the evening. Retinoids can make the skin more sensitive to the sun, so always use sunscreen during the day.

Examples: Tretinoin, adapalene

2. Oral Antibiotics

For more severe cases of cystic acne, dermatologists often prescribe oral antibiotics. These medications work by reducing the amount of bacteria in the skin and decreasing inflammation. While oral antibiotics can be effective in treating cystic acne, they are typically used for a limited period due to potential side effects.

How to Use: Oral antibiotics are typically taken for a few weeks to months, depending on the severity of the condition.

Examples: Doxycycline, minocycline, tetracycline

3. Oral Contraceptives

For women, hormonal birth control pills can be an effective treatment for cystic acne. Certain birth control pills regulate hormones and reduce the production of sebum (skin oil), which can help prevent clogged pores and breakouts. This is particularly beneficial for women whose cystic acne is linked to hormonal fluctuations, such as during menstruation or pregnancy.

How to Use: Take daily as prescribed. It may take several months for visible improvements in acne.

Note: Always consult with a healthcare provider before starting any birth control method.

4. Isotretinoin (Accutane)

Isotretinoin, commonly known by its brand name Accutane, is a powerful oral medication used for severe cases of cystic acne that do not respond to other treatments. It works by reducing oil production, preventing clogged pores, and decreasing inflammation. Isotretinoin can provide long-term relief, often with only one course of treatment, but it is typically reserved for cases where other treatments have failed due to its potential side effects.

How to Use: Taken orally for several months under the supervision of a dermatologist. Blood tests are required during treatment due to potential side effects.

Note: Isotretinoin can have serious side effects, including birth defects if taken during pregnancy, so strict precautions must be followed.

5. Corticosteroid Injections

For large, painful cysts, dermatologists may recommend corticosteroid injections. These injections can reduce inflammation and help the cysts shrink rapidly, providing faster relief. This treatment is often used for isolated cysts and is usually performed in a clinical setting.

How to Use: The injection is administered directly into the cyst by a healthcare professional.

6. Chemical Peels

Chemical peels involve applying a chemical solution to the skin that helps exfoliate dead skin cells, unclog pores, and reduce acne-related inflammation. They can be particularly helpful for individuals with cystic acne who also have acne scars or uneven skin texture.

How to Use: Performed by a dermatologist or licensed professional. Multiple sessions may be required for optimal results.

7. Light and Laser Therapy

Laser treatments and light therapy are often used to treat acne by targeting the bacteria that cause breakouts, as well as reducing inflammation and oil production in the skin. These treatments can be particularly effective for cystic acne that is resistant to topical treatments.

How to Use: Performed in a dermatology office. Multiple treatments may be necessary for long-lasting results.

How to Prevent Cystic Acne Breakouts

In addition to medical treatments, there are lifestyle changes and habits you can adopt to help prevent cystic acne breakouts:

• Maintain a consistent skincare routine: Wash your face twice daily with a gentle cleanser to remove excess oil and bacteria.

• Avoid squeezing or picking at acne: Picking at cystic acne can worsen the condition and lead to scarring.

• Use non-comedogenic products: Choose skincare and makeup products that won’t clog your pores.

• Manage stress: Since stress can exacerbate acne, practice stress-reducing techniques such as yoga or deep breathing exercises.

• Stay hydrated: Drinking enough water helps to keep your skin healthy and can reduce oil production.

Conclusion

Cystic acne can be a challenging condition, but with the right treatment and care, it is manageable. At Sylvania Pharmacy, we can help you understand your treatment options and offer guidance on how to manage cystic acne effectively. If you’re struggling with cystic acne, schedule a consultation with a dermatologist who can help you determine the best course of action.