What Is Cystic Acne? How Is It Treated?

Acne is one of the most common skin conditions and patients can suffer a few different types, unfortunately. While acne often isn’t painful or difficult to clear up, some types of acne, like cystic acne, can cause pain and are more difficult to treat. If you live in or near Beverly Hills, MI, and suffer from acne, contact the Beverly Hills Skin Care Institute to discuss treatment options with Dr. Indira Misra-Higgins.

Let’s take a deeper look at cystic acne, what makes it different from other types of acne, and also how it can be treated.

What Distinguishes Cystic Acne?

With cystic acne, people develop puss-filled cysts, otherwise known as pimples, deep underneath their skin. Cystic acne can result in large areas of inflamed skin that can resemble a severe rash.  While mild acne will often clear up without causing acne, these more severe types can result in lasting damage, making professional treatment all the more important.

Often, the cysts are at least as big as a pea and can grow larger than a dime. Yellowish white heads are common and may emit pus. The bumps are typically sensitive to the touch and can make shaving and other hygiene procedures difficult and painful.

What Causes Cystic Acne?

Acne is typically caused by dead skin cells and oil clogging up pores. With cystic acne, bacteria can also infiltrate the skin and pores, causing an infection that then results in inflammation and swelling. The bacteria can not only make acne outbreaks more severe but also harder to treat.

If you're suffering from cystic acne and live in or near Beverly Hills, MI, contact the Beverly Hills Skin Care Institute and schedule an appointment with Dr. Misra-Higgins.

Where Does Cystic Acne Occur? How Is It Treated?

Cystic acne can occur pretty much anywhere on your skin. Unfortunately, however, this particular acne is perhaps most common on the face. Not only can this result in discomfort, it can also leave scars in highly visible areas. These scars could impact your self confidence and cause other issues.

Talking with a dermatologist is typically a wise idea with any type of acne. However, owing to the risk of scarring, it’s especially important to seek professional help with cystic acne. A doctor can prescribe antibiotic creams, gels, and oral antibiotics to bring infections under control. Azelaic and salicylic acid can also help control bacteria and clear out dead skin cells.

A dermatologist can also talk with you about other types of treatment. If you or a loved one is suffering from acne and you live in Beverly Hills, MI, or nearby, dial (248) 723-5802 to speak with Dr. Misra-Higgins about treatment options and next steps.