Cystic acne is a common skin condition that causes pus and blackheads to form. There are many different causes of cystic acne, but the most common are sebaceous gland problems, hair follicles, and dirt and oil accumulation. This article will discuss these causes as well as various treatment options available for cystic acne.
Contents
What is cystic acne?
Cystic acne is a type of acne that is characterized by small, pus-filled bumps on the face. It is more common in young adults, and can be difficult to treat. Cystic acne can be painful and flare up easily, so it’s important to find a treatment that works well for you.
There are a number of different treatments available, including prescription medication, over-the-counter products, and natural remedies. It’s important to know what causes cystic acne and how to treat it before it becomes too serious.
Symptoms
Cystic acne is characterized by small, fluid-filled sacs (cysts) on the skin which may be caused by acne causing bacteria. These cysts can be white, yellow, or brown in color and can often be painful to touch. Cystic acne usually appears on the cheeks, chin, forehead, or nose but can also occur on any other area of the face. Cystic acne can be difficult to treat because it often has a tendency to recur.
Causes
Cystic acne can be caused by a variety of factors, including oily cosmetics, medications, high level of sweating, hormonal changes, and genetics. These factors will be further discussed below.
Oily cosmetics
Cystic acne is an inflammatory skin condition that is caused by the overproduction of sebum, a natural oil produced by the skin. Oily cosmetics, which are often made with high levels of oil, are one of the main causes of cystic acne. By greasing up your face every day, you’re increasing the amount of sebum that your skin produces and paving the way for cystic acne to develop. To prevent this common problem, switch to a dry-weight foundation or use matte finishing powder to control your oil level.
Some medications
Some of the medications that can develop acne cysts include birth control pills, steroids, and antibiotics. For example, the hormone contraceptive pill can increase the production of androgens, which can lead to cystic acne.
In addition, steroids can increase the production of oil and Propionibacterium acnes bacteria (the cause of acne) in the skin, which can lead to formation of cysts. In some cases, steroid use may also increase the number and size of sebaceous glands in the skin, which can also lead to cystic acne.
High levels of sweating
Sweating is a natural process that helps regulate body temperature. However, excessive sweating can cause bacteria to accumulate on the skin, which can lead to skin infections. Sweating can also reduce the effectiveness of sunscreen and other topical skin care products.
In relation, cystic acne often tends to develop in areas where there is a high level of sweating, such as the face, neck, and chest. Sweating can cause bacteria to accumulate on the skin, leading to inflammation and production of oil and pus.
Hormonal changes
Most people know that acne is caused by an imbalance of oil and bacteria on the skin. However, many people don’t know that hormonal changes can also cause cystic acne. When a person’s hormones are out of balance, their body releases more oil and creates more bacteria to break down this oil. This combination can lead to acne lesions that are filled with pus.
Genetics
Cystic acne is much more difficult to treat than regular acne, and can often be persistent. Genetics may play a role in cystic acne, as certain genes may predispose someone to the condition. Treatment for cystic acne typically involves antibiotics or topical treatments like benzoyl peroxide.
Home remedies
Cystic acne is a type of acne that occurs on the skin’s surface and often has a thick, plug-like appearance. It can be difficult to treat, but there are several home remedies you can try. Some of these include using over-the-counter products such as benzoyl peroxide, salicylic acid, or topical antibiotics and using natural remedies such as tea tree oil or garlic.
Tea tree oil is a natural remedy that has been used for centuries to treat various skin conditions. Recently, it has been found to be effective in treating cystic acne. Tea tree oil works by blocking the production of bacteria and fungus that can cause cystic acne. It also helps to destroy the oils and cells that are responsible for the formation of acne lesions.
Additionally, garlic is a beneficial herb for many things, but especially when it comes to cystic acne. Garlic contains antioxidants, which can fight free radicals that can cause inflammation and swelling in the skin.
Plus, garlic has anti-inflammatory properties that can soothe and reduce the redness and swelling associated with cystic acne. Garlic is also known to be an effective treatment for other skin conditions like eczema and psoriasis. So if you’re looking for a natural remedy to help treat your cystic acne, adding garlic to your diet may just be the answer you’re looking for!
Treatment options
Cystic acne is a very frustrating condition because it is difficult to treat and can be very persistent. There are a few different treatment options available, but each one has its own benefits and drawbacks. Some common treatments include topical retinoids, oral contraceptives, spironolactone, oral antibiotics, and isotretinoin.
Topical retinoids
Topical retinoids are a type of medication that can be very effective in shrinking the size of acne cysts. Retinoids work by reducing the amount of oil and bacteria in the skin. They can also help improve the appearance of scars and wrinkles caused by acne.
You may be wondering how to apply topical retinoids for cystic acne. Here’s a breakdown of the most common ways:
- Over the counter retinoid creams and gels: Apply a thin layer morning and evening to the entire face, using gentle pressure. Follow with a sunscreen if outdoors.
- Retinoid injections: A doctor can inject you with a retinoid serum or cream every two or three weeks, depending on your skin type and severity of acne.
- Topical prescriptions: Your doctor may prescribe oral or topical prescription retinoids, such as tretinoin (Avita, Retin-A Micro) or adapalene (Differin), which are applied daily in the evening. These medications can be expensive, so talk to your doctor about whether they’re right for you.
Oral contraceptives
Oral contraceptives is a powerful way to treat acne, as they can help to reduce the amount of oil produced by the skin and therefore decrease the number of breakouts. Oral contraceptives must be taken every day, and should not be stopped abruptly unless advised to do so by a doctor. They may also be prescribed in combination with other treatments, such as topical medications or phototherapy.
Spironolactone
Recently, spironolactone has been shown to be an effective treatment for cystic acne. Spironolactone is a hormone-like medication that works by reducing the production of testosterone and other hormones in the body. This can help reduce the amount of oil and bacteria present in the skin, leading to less inflammation and better overall skin clarity.
Oral antibiotics
Oral antibiotics can be a treatment for cystic acne, because they can help to kill the bacteria that is causing the lesions. Oral antibiotics are also effective at reducing inflammation and swelling in the skin. There are many different types of oral antibiotics, but they all work in a similar way. Oral antibiotics can take a few days to start working, but they usually clear up cystic acne within a few weeks.
Isotretinoin
Isotretinoin, also known as Accutane, is a medication that is used to treat severe acne. It is a derivative of the vitamin A molecule and is taken by mouth. It is thought to work by reducing the amount of oil and bacteria that are present in the skin. Isotretinoin is available in various forms, including pills, creams, and gels.
When to see a doctor?
Cystic acne can be difficult to treat and can occasionally lead to scarring. If you have cystic acne, it is important to see a doctor as soon as possible for treatment options. Depending on the severity of your condition, you may be prescribed medications or surgery.
Finding
In conclusion, cystic acne is a common skin condition that can be caused by a variety of factors. While there is no one-size-fits-all solution to curing it, following a healthy diet and taking care of your skin can help improve symptoms. If you are experiencing cystic acne, consult a dermatologist for advice on the best course of treatment.
FAQ’s
What is the main cause of cystic acne?
Cystic acne is an acne condition that has a large number of small, fluid-filled lesions that typically take up most of the face. These lesions are caused by an overproduction of oil and dead skin cells.
Although excessive oil production and dead skin cells in the face are not life-threatening, they can be unsightly and can lead to skin problems. Excessive oil production is caused by overproduction of sebum, a natural oily secretion that helps maintain skin barrier. Dead skin cells accumulate due to a combination of genetic and environmental factors, including exposure to pollution, UV radiation, and harsh chemicals.
How do I stop cystic acne?
Cystic acne can be quite painful and can often lead to scarring. Fortunately, there are treatments available that can help stop or reduce the severity of cystic acne. Some of the most common treatments include topical medications and laser therapy.
For example, the most common topical medications used to treat cystic acne include benzoyl peroxide, antibiotics, retinoids, and creams containing sulfur. It’s important to use a topical treatment that matches the individual’s skin type and severity of acne, as not all treatments will work for everyone.
What foods can cause cystic acne?
The most common foods that can cause cystic acne are dairy products, wheat products, and chocolate. Many people believe that these foods are the root cause of cystic acne, but the truth is that there is no one definitive cause. Rather, it is likely a combination of factors, including diet, lifestyle, and genetics. If you’re experiencing cystic acne, it’s important to consult with your doctor to determine which foods may be causing your condition and to develop a personalized diet plan tailored to your individual needs to prevent cystic acne.
What happens to untreated cystic acne?
Untreated cystic acne can also lead to more serious problems, such as inflammation of the sebaceous glands and an increase in oil production. In addition, it can also cause scarring and wrinkles, and may even lead to liver damage or cancer. If you have cystic acne, it is important to get treatment as soon as possible to prevent these problems.
Does acne come in cycles?
Acne commonly comes in cycles, with Acne vulgaris typically occurring in adolescence and then remission sometime during the early twenties. However, some people experience acne throughout their lives, sometimes exhibiting a severe form known as Acne conglobata. Many experts believe that there is a cyclical pattern to acne, with periods of severity and then remission. Some research suggests that factors such as diet, hormones and stress can affect the frequency of outbreaks and can make acne worse.