Cystic acne is a type of inflammatory acne that occurs when a pore becomes clogged with dead skin cells and bacteria, causing painful, pus-filled pimples to form deep under the skin. Cystic acne is the most severe acne variation and can lead to significant scarring. However, once you have a firm understanding of it, you can learn how to combat the issue.
Refine Dermatology is one of Knoxville, TN’s most trusted dermatology centers. We help people overcome their acne problems, giving them clear and healthy skin that will improve their beauty, self-confidence, and more. Read on for our guide all about cystic acne and how it affects your body.
What is Acne?
Acne is an inflammatory skin disorder that develops when hair follicles become clogged. Sebum oil and dead skin cells congest pores over time, causing troublesome zit and pimple outbreaks. Although outbreaks mainly occur on a person’s face, acne can also form along your shoulders, back, and chest.
What is Cystic Acne?
Cystic acne is the most severe acne type that develops deep underneath the skin. It’s more painful than traditional acne and often becomes itchy over time. However, excess scratching or picking can cause the cysts to burst, spreading the infection while causing additional breakouts and scarring.
The condition rarely goes away on its own and can plague your skin for several years. You must seek treatment as soon as cystic acne develops to avoid scarring and more prevalent outbreaks.
What Causes Cystic Acne?
Cystic acne forms when dry skin cells, bacteria, and oil become trapped in your pores. Although cystic acne can develop on anyone, people with oily skin are more prone to the infection. Women, teens, and adults suffering from hormonal imbalances are also at a higher risk of cystic acne.
Cystic Acne Treatments
Unfortunately, over-the-counter acne treatments likely won’t rid you of cystic acne. A professional dermatologist will provide you with a prescription medication to help you eliminate the infection. However, some treatments don’t eradicate cystic acne for eight weeks or longer.
Severe cystic acne outbreaks sometimes require therapies and prescription medical treatment. Your dermatologist will examine your case and determine the best treatment option for you.
Some of the most common cystic acne treatments include:
- Oral antibiotics
- Birth control pills (to regulate hormones in women)
- Topical retinoids
- Topical antibiotics
- Isotretinoin
- Spironolactone
A dermatologist will also help you reduce cystic acne scars once the infection dissipates. However, you must eradicate cystic acne before seeking scar treatments.
Contact Refine Dermatology for Efficient Cystic Acne Treatments in Knoxville, TN
If you are a Knoxville, TN resident who suffers from cystic acne, contact Refine Dermatology. Our board-certified dermatologist will help you eliminate cystic acne, leading to clearer skin in just a few short weeks. We always make you our number one priority and will do everything we can to improve your skin while providing outstanding customer service every step of the way.
Contact Refine Dermatology at (865) 545-0900 and schedule your appointment today!
