Cystic Acne Treatment: What Works?

A severe form of acne known as cystic acne occurs when the skin's pores clog, causing infection and irritation. It can be physically unpleasant as well as emotionally disturbing due to the influence on facial look.

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Although there are many various types, sizes, and forms of pimples, cystic acne is the most severe. According to Dr. Zeichner, when treating this challenging acne at home, the typical acne treatment plan may not help it recover. Most people who have it frequently visit a dermatologist for an immediate cortisone shot to dry it up.

The following are the second-best at-home cystic acne remedies, along with suggestions from leading dermatologists, for treating those cysts that are below the surface:

1. Put an ice pack on the area as soon as you see cystic acne developing to lessen swelling.

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Apply an ice cube to the area for a few seconds as soon as you discover the first signs of cystic acne since it is firmly rooted beneath the skin. Nazarian asserts that by compressing the microscopic blood vessels supplying the cyst, applying an ice cube to a pimple will significantly diminish its size and redness. Dr. Zeichner further suggests using cold for ten minutes at a time, three times each hour (10 minutes on, 10 minutes off).

2. Avoid attempting to pop or squeeze the acne at all costs.

Despite how enjoyable it can feel, avoid popping the pimples, especially if they are cystic. According to Dr. Rodney, unlike pustules and blackheads, under-the-skin pimples frequently do not include a core of dead skin or pus. Additionally, squeezing a cystic pimple can stress the skin and increase inflammation, which can lead to scarring and skin discoloration.

3. Use a variety of components that interact differently and function well together.

According to Dr. Zeichner, salicylic acid and benzoyl peroxide should be used in tandem. When using the latter, he suggested first moisturizing the skin lightly to reduce irritation before applying the thinnest benzoyl peroxide layer possible directly to the cyst to treat it. He also mentioned that he suggests using a salicylic acid cleanser, followed by an oil-free moisturizer, and then finishing with a benzoyl peroxide spot treatment to increase the effectiveness of both of these active ingredients for the removal of cystic acne.

4. Utilize a cleanser that contains salicylic acid.

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Salicylic acid, a beta hydroxy acid (BHA) that helps decrease cystic pimples by eliminating excess oil, sloughing off dead skin cells, and drying them out, is advised for use in cleansers by Dr. Zeichner for patients with cystic acne.

5. Make use of an oil-free moisturizer.

Dr. Rodney advises his patients who are prone to cystic breakouts to moisturize their skin using oil-free, noncomedogenic products. Picking a moisturizer with ceramides, niacinamide, or hyaluronic acid might thus be particularly beneficial. These components support restoring the skin's protective barrier while reducing redness and irritation.

6. Kill the bacteria by applying a medicated spot treatment.

Studies show that even little amounts of benzoyl peroxide are equally as effective as larger concentrations and cause less drying of the skin. Zeichner suggests using benzoyl peroxide as a spot treatment since it lowers irritation by reducing the quantity of acne-causing bacteria on the skin.

If everything else fails, get help from a nearby dermatologist to treat and control your cystic acne. Just always remember that pricking it will cause serious problems.