Cystic Acne

Published:January 12th, 2012

Acne is most commonly found on the face and neck. When it occupies a large portion of the skin, it may cause low self-esteem especially among adolescents. Acne eruptions can range from pimples, whiteheads and blackheads to cysts and nodules.

Cystic acne is a rare and more serious form of acne. It is more dangerous because it originates from the deep layers of skin. This type of acne manifests itself on the face, shoulders, chest and back. In some cases, it can also appear on the arms.

Cystic acne can affect anyone. But it is common among adolescent boys and young men. If your parents have cystic acne, it is more likely that you would get the condition.

Causes of Cystic Acne

Cystic acne’s principal cause is hyperactivity of the sebaceous glands. When there is an increased production of sebum, it leads to formation of cystic inflammations which cause more pain in comparison to a common pimple. These inflammations are also very large and filled with pus.

Some other causes of cystic acne are: Genetics, hormonal imbalances, antipsychotic and antidepressant drugs, using make ups and strong soaps, unhealthy diet, stress, lack of sleep and popping of pimples.

Treatment of Cystic Acne

Cystic acne should be treated early on its course. It may be a severe form but treatment is available. Once it is treated, certain measures should be taken to prevent its recurrence. It is important to seek the treatment for scar tissue left by cystic acne because it may cause poor self-esteem when not removed.

The affected area should be kept clean and dry, but care should be taken to not do excess cleaning because it might worsen the condition. Antibacterial mild soaps could be used in the affected area.

It is not advisable to self-medicate, instead seek a physician’s advice. Physicians may prescribe antibiotics or external medication. Treatment is different among individuals and is based on the severity of the condition.

An effective treatment for cystic acne is the peel. There are different types of peels. Your physician will be the right person to choose which type will be used according to your condition. Peels are effective because they reach the oil present in the deep layers of skin, unlike the normal facial wash which reaches only the superficial part of the skin.

Once treatment has started, it is important to do it regularly. When you follow the treatment regimen diligently, the management of cystic acne is quick and more effective.

Prevention

It is better for cystic acne to be prevented than to go through the pain of having it. If you already have cystic acne, it is better to keep it from multiplying.

To prevent it from multiplying it is advised to keep your hands away from your face. Do not pop the pimple. The dirtiest part of our body is our hands, once we put our fingers on our face; it is a way of introducing bacteria, thus worsening the condition.

When acne is popped, it may lead to permanent scarring and bleeding. The scarring can only be removed through cosmetic surgery. Thus, if you don’t want to go through extensive and expensive treatment, it is better to not worsen your condition.

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