What Causes Cystic Acne? 3 Treatment Solutions To Consider
The causes of cystic acne include hormonal changes, stress, and family history. Treatment options include oral medications and therapies.
Defining Cystic Acne
Cystic acne is a severe type of acne that forms deep into the skin, creating cysts full of pus. This acne is large, red, tender, and painful and may cause scarring. The acne occurs due to a buildup of bacteria, causing inflammation. A skin specialist may provide the best skin treatment based on the severity of the acne.
Causes of acne
People may experience acne for different reasons. A few causes include age, hormonal changes, stress, and family history. Teenagers are prone to getting acne due to changes in hormones. People experiencing menopause or pregnancy may also be more likely to develop this condition. Additional possible causes include certain medications, high humidity, and some skin products.
Home remedies
When considering home treatment, consult a skin specialist before trying out anything. Some home remedies include ice application, tea tree oil, vinegar cleanser, and face masks. Besides these remedies, avoiding foods such as dairy products, processed foods, and sugar for a few weeks may make a difference. A diet with probiotics can help to decrease skin inflammation. When home remedies fail, the doctor will select a medical treatment based on the severity of the skin.
1. Oral medications
The skin specialist will evaluate and determine the severity of the acne and then decide on the type of treatment. One treatment option is oral medications such as antibiotics, retinoids, anti-androgen drugs, and birth control pills. Each medication has pros and cons, and patients should be aware of possible side effects. A dermatologist can determine the best medication depending on the skin type.
2. Topical medications
The healthcare provider may consider prescribing topical medications. This treatment is applied directly to the skin and can include antibiotics, retinoids, or anti-infectives. Salicylic acid, azelaic acid, and benzoyl peroxide are other options available over the counter. Topical medications may have local side effects, such as skin irritation, but are generally well tolerated.
3. Cosmetic therapies
There are various kinds of therapies one may apply either alone or in combination with oral or topical treatment. These therapies include steroid injections, removal and drainage, chemical peel, and light therapy. The choice of treatment depends on the size of the acne and the doctor’s recommendation.
Clear skin is possible
To prevent cystic acne, good skin hygiene techniques need to be followed. These include diligent fact washing, avoiding touching the face, removing makeup before sleep, and using a good moisturizer. A healthy diet and avoiding picking or popping pimples can also be helpful. When the inevitable breakout occurs, oral and topical medications, or cosmetic therapies can help.