Cystic acne is an inflamed type of acne that is quite painful and is the most severe. This condition is the result of not having nodule acne treated which results in the enlargement of the acne nodules.
The continued growth of the nodules causes swelling and possible rupturing of the lesions beneath the skin surface. The fluids present in the nodules seep into the surrounding skin making the inflammation worse.
Studies have shown that cystic acne is more common in teenage boys and young adult males. It has also been observed that cystic acne tends to run in families. However, this condition can affect anyone.
Most of the people who develop cystic acne also have other acne types including whiteheads, blackheads and pustules. Although it is quite severe, this condition develops the same way as other acne types.
That is, excess secretion of sebum, excess dead skin cells and the presence of a large number of acne causing bacteria. Being a severe form of acne, it is a bit hard to treat it than it is treating other acne types. Some of the methods found to be effective in treating cystic acne include the following.
Accutane
This drug is also known as isotetrinoin. It is commonly prescribed as a cystic acne treatment when the acne doesn’t respond to treatment with other antibiotics. Accutane is a form of vitamin A which works by inhibiting the action of oil glands on the skin.
That is, it works by preventing production of sebum by hair follicles. Although it has been found to be very effective in the treatment of cystic acne, accutane has serious side effects especially when used by pregnant women.This drug poses serious birth defects on the fetus if used during pregnancy.
Other side effects associated with this drug include alopecia and problems of the skin, nails and eyes, depression, erectile dysfunction and liver damage. It is recommended that you only use accutane under the guidance of a qualified medical professional.
Antibiotics
Oral and topical antibiotics such as tetracycline and erythromycin can also be used for the treatment of cystic acne. These medicines help to reduce inflammation and the number of acne causing bacteria on the skin.
However, these drugs cannot prevent the recurrence of cystic acne and have some possible side effects including skin irritation, stomach upset and yeast infections in women.
Cortisone
The steroid cortisone has also been effectively used for the treatment of cystic acne. This is a naturally occurring steroid whose function in the body is to counter inflammation and hasten the healing process.
It is directly injected into the cyst and works by reducing the size of the acne lesions. A major advantage is that the healing process starts immediately.
Birth control pills
Cystic acne in women can be the result of hormonal changes where excess estrogen is produced in the body. This leads to the development of acne. Birth control pills can be administered to maintain a hormonal balance in the body helping treat the acne breakout.
Surgical procedures
In some cases, the cysts grow too large and don’t respond well to other treatment methods. Surgical procedures to drain the cysts and extract them can be performed as a treatment method.
This however shouldn’t be likened to squeezing the cysts. It should be done by a qualified dermatologist to prevent infection or spreading the acne to other parts of the skin.
Self treatment
Although the above mentioned treatment methods are proven to work, they don’t guarantee that the cystic acne won’t recur. Self treatment is geared towards reducing the chances that the cysts will pop up in future.
Some of the things to do include identification of the causes of the breakouts and dealing with them. For example, if you find that your diet plays a role in the breakouts, its best to change to a healthy diet.
I have compiled a short report detailing 5 simple steps to getting rid of acne. These practical steps will enable you free yourself from cystic acne and also reduce the chances of recurrence.
The main advantages of these steps is that they are practical, can be practiced from home and have no side effects.