What Exactly Is Cystic Acne?

Acne can be devastating to anyone`s self-esteem and difficult to treat, regardless of whether you are a teen or an adult. However, regular acne pales in comparison to cystic acne. While the two fall under the acne category, cystic acne is definitely a force to be reckoned with. While there is no cure, there are products and treatments that can help.

Even though cystic acne is less common, those who do suffer from it have quite a skincare challenge ahead of them. What exactly is cystic acne? This more severe form of acne involves large cysts that form as painful bumps. These cysts appear most commonly on the back, face, shoulders and neck. The number of cysts that appear on the skin can range from one annoying bump to a cluster of cysts. Dead skin cells, white blood cells and bacteria combine underneath the skin and form pus that makes up the cyst. Unfortunately, even medical experts aren’t sure as to what exactly causes cystic acne to occur. Adolescence, allergic reactions to oil-based cosmetics and hair products, as well as certain medications, including vitamin B-2, have been targeted as possible factors.

The appearance of the cysts can be quite unsightly and definitely embarrassing for anyone who has it. As if having cystic acne isn’t bad enough, the presence of this skin condition can cause severe scarring. Unlike other skin conditions, cystic acne does not go away or clear up on its own. Regular acne medications and products purchased at the drugstore rarely have any effect. It is for this reason that those with cystic acne seek medical attention immediately. The sooner the condition is diagnosed, the better a dermatologist can begin treatment.

In most cases of cystic acne, the dermatologist will prescribe an oral medication combined with a topical treatment that will start to ease the symptoms. While the medication won’t be potent enough to penetrate the cysts themselves, it will help reduce inflammation and prevent future cysts from forming.

Accutane is a popular treatment for cystic acne. Accutane is a very potent drug used for severe cases of acne. When used, Accutane forces the skin to halt production of oil within the sebaceous glands. As a hormone, it causes the skin to produce different oils that won’t block the pores or cause further outbreaks. Doctors will usually exhaust all other options first however, as Accutane can cause serious health problems including severe birth defects in expectant mothers, depression, thinning hair, and dry skin, lips and eyes. Because of this, Accutane is not recommended for those with mild to moderate acne.

Cystic acne can seem like a huge inconvenience, but with a little education and working closely with a good doctor, you have a chance at clearing up your skin and regaining control of your appearance and your life.