July
2007
Cystic Acne : What It Is
Cystic acne differs from regular acne with topical pimple and blackhead problems. Cystic acne affects deeper skin tissue than other acnes. It is a more severe form of acne and should be treated by a dermatologist. Cystic acne is more common in teenage years and usually occurs on the face. The nodules or cysts should never be squeezed or fussed with as it may lead to a deeper infection than it was initially.
With cystic acne, inflammatory sebaceous cysts occur, instead of just the pustules and blackheads associated with other forms of acne. It is caused by excess secretion of oil by the sebaceous glands. Cystic acne’s causes are many. Hormonal activity, stress, family history and bacteria in the pores all play a role in this type of acne as well as other types.
A combination of treatments are used to combat cystic acne. Most alternative acne treatments are aimed at either the hormonal basis, anti- inflammatory or antibacterial. Exfoliation treatments for the skin are one method and pads using salicylic acid are often utilized. Another mode of treatment is the use of topical bactericides such as benzoyl peroxide. For the hormonal approach, oral contraceptives may be used for females.
If under the care of a dermatologist, oral retinoids may be prescribed. Phototherapy, using red and blue light may be used. Accutane may be prescribed if under the care of a dermatologist. Accutane has been found to be highly effective in treating cystic acne, but has many precautions for taking. Your dermatologist would inform you of these, but of course we here at AcneMagazine.com believe that there are several alternative acne treatments that work on many levels to help adolescents and adults clear up their acne on a long term basis without antibiotics or potentially harmful prescription drugs.
