Cystic acne is a severe form of acne that occurs when deep, inflamed, pus-filled cysts form beneath the skin. It is often painful, can lead to scarring, and is usually caused by a combination of hormonal imbalances, bacteria, excess oil production, and clogged pores.
Causes of Cystic Acne:
- Hormonal changes (common during puberty, menstruation, pregnancy, and stress)
- Genetics (family history of severe acne increases risk)
- Excess sebum (oil) production
- Bacteria (Cutibacterium acnes)
- Diet (some people find dairy or high-glycemic foods worsen their acne)
- Certain skincare or hair products (comedogenic products can clog pores)
Treatment Options:
Medical Treatments:
- Oral antibiotics (e.g., doxycycline, minocycline) to reduce bacteria and inflammation
- Isotretinoin (Accutane) – A powerful retinoid for severe cases
- Hormonal therapy (e.g., birth control pills, spironolactone) for hormone-related acne
- Corticosteroid injections (for large, painful cysts)
- Topical retinoids (e.g., tretinoin, adapalene) to unclog pores and speed up cell turnover
At-Home Care:
- Use a gentle, non-comedogenic cleanser (avoid harsh scrubs)
- Apply benzoyl peroxide or salicylic acid to help reduce bacteria and unclog pores
- Moisturize with oil-free, non-comedogenic products
- Avoid picking or popping cysts to prevent scarring
- Ice packs can help reduce inflammation and pain
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