Facts About Cystic Acne

Cystic Acne is also known as nodulocystic acne, and it is the most severe form of acne. Rarer than other types of acne, cystic acne most often effects the face, chest, back and shoulders. This form of acne is extremely troublesome for those who suffer from it, but there are treatments available to significantly reduce the effects of cystic acne.

What causes cystic acne?

Like other forms of acne, cystic acne is caused by an excess of sebum that clogs the pores of the skin. The acne develops small cysts or nodules of inflammation. These cysts are larger and more painful than a regular acne pimple, and are pus-filled. Specific factors that may cause cystic acne are:

Genetics - Cystic acne runs in families.

Hormones - During adolescence, certain times of the menstrual cycle or when a woman is approaching menopause, cystic acne may develop or be aggravated.

Stress - Stress may be related to outbreaks of cystic and other types of acne.

Harsh soaps or over-washing - Using harsh cleansers or excessively washing may actually aggravate cystic acne. While it is important to keep the skin clean, it is just as important to treat it gently.

Make-up that is greasy may clog pores and lead to acne and cystic acne.

Some medications - If you think your medication may be causing cystic acne breakouts, consult with your doctor.

Poor diet - While diet will not cause cystic acne, a healthy diet is a good way to fight it. If you eat a healthy diet, your body will be better prepared to fight infection and heal itself. Also, some food sensitivities may cause breakouts.

Popping pimples - You should never pop pimples. Popping a regular pimple could lead to the pimple becoming more infected than is was and causing cystic acne to form.

How to treat cystic acne

It's important to treat cystic acne early in order to prevent or at least reduce scarring. It is always necessary to keep the affected area clean and dry (but again, don't over do it or use harsh cleansers). Wash with a soap made especially for acne. You may want to try an over-the-counter acne kit, as they have shown good results for some. Or you can try a simple anti-acne gel or cream that has benzoyl peroxide in it. It is important to be consistent in your treatment program.

If the cystic acne is severe, you will need to see your doctor or dermatologist for treatment options. Often, antibiotics are prescribed, and while they can be effective, long-term antibiotic therapy is recommended only for the most severe cases because of growing antibiotic resistance among acne strains.

Even though cystic acne is the most severe and troubling of all acnes, it is treatable and as with all things it will disappear over time. The key is early treatment to prevent future outbreaks and scarring.

While cystic acne is the most severe form of acne, causing physical discomfort and emotional distress, there are ways to treat it and lessen the effect it has on your life. Here you will find valuable information on this most troubling form of acne.