How to Deal with Cystic Acne: Natural and Medical Solutions

Cystic acne is a severe type of acne that causes deep, painful pimples under the skin. Cystic acne develops when pores or hair follicles become blocked by a combination of oil, dead skin cells, and bacteria.

These cysts can lead to scarring if not treated properly. If you’re dealing with cystic acne, the good news is there are both natural and medical solutions available to help reduce flare-ups and prevent future breakouts.

Read on to discover effective natural remedies and medical treatments that can help manage cystic acne and restore your skin.

Natural Approaches to Cystic Acne

For those who prefer a gentler approach to treating cystic acne, natural remedies can be a good option. While they may not offer immediate results, they can provide long-term benefits when used regularly alongside a consistent skincare routine. These natural treatments can be an effective addition to your acne treatment plan, promoting clearer skin over time.

Here are some natural treatments to consider:

Tea tree oil: Known for its antibacterial properties, tea tree oil can help fight the bacteria that contribute to acne. Applying a small amount to the affected area may reduce inflammation and promote healing.
Aloe vera: Aloe vera is another natural remedy that soothes inflamed skin and promotes healing. It has anti-inflammatory properties that may help reduce redness and swelling associated with cystic pimples.
Honey: Honey, particularly raw honey, has natural antibacterial qualities that can help prevent acne breakouts. It also moisturizes the skin, preventing it from becoming too dry.
Green tea: Drinking green tea or applying it topically to the skin may help reduce oil production and inflammation. It contains antioxidants that can be beneficial in treating acne.
Warm compress: A warm compress applied to the skin can help bring cystic pimples to the surface, making them easier to treat. The warmth helps increase blood flow and can reduce the size of the acne cysts.

These natural remedies may not provide immediate results like acne treatments with stronger ingredients, but with consistent use, they can help reduce cystic acne flare-ups over time.

Medical Treatments for Cystic Acne

While natural remedies can be helpful, they may not always be enough to control cystic acne, especially in more severe cases. Medical treatments provide stronger, more targeted solutions to manage and reduce cystic acne. A dermatologist can help identify the best course of treatment based on the severity and type of acne you have.

Below are some common medical treatments for cystic acne:

Topical treatments: Prescription-strength topical treatments, such as benzoyl peroxide and retinoids, are often effective in managing cystic acne. These treatments work by unclogging pores, reducing oil production, and promoting the shedding of dead skin cells.
Oral medications: In more severe cases, dermatologists may recommend oral antibiotics or oral medication to reduce inflammation and control bacteria. For some individuals, birth control pills are also prescribed to regulate hormone levels that contribute to hormonal acne.
Corticosteroid injections: For large, painful cystic acne cysts, a dermatologist may recommend steroid injections. This procedure helps reduce the size of the cyst and speeds up the healing process.
Laser treatments: Lasers, such as laser therapy, target the sebaceous glands and reduce oil production in the skin. This treatment can help decrease inflammation and prevent future cystic acne breakouts.
Chemical peels: Chemical peels use strong acids to exfoliate the skin, removing dead skin cells and unclogging pores. This treatment can be helpful for people with cystic acne prone to scarring.
Isotretinoin: In cases where other treatments have failed, isotretinoin, a vitamin A derivative, may be prescribed. This powerful medication works by reducing oil production in the skin and preventing clogged pores, but it requires close monitoring due to potential side effects.

Medical treatments for cystic acne are often more aggressive and can provide faster results, but they may come with side effects. Be sure to discuss all options with your dermatologist to determine the right course of action for you.

Managing Cystic Acne: Prevention Tips

Preventing cystic acne requires a proactive approach that goes beyond treatments. By maintaining healthy habits and staying consistent with your skincare routine, you can reduce the risk of future breakouts and keep your skin in better condition.

Here are some prevention tips to consider:

Follow a consistent skincare routine: Cleansing your skin regularly with acne cleansers can help keep your pores free from oil, dirt, and bacteria. Use non-comedogenic skincare products that won’t clog pores.
Avoid touching your face: Touching your face can transfer bacteria and oils from your hands to your skin, leading to clogged pores. Avoid picking or squeezing cystic pimples, as this can worsen the condition and cause scarring.
Manage stress: Stress can trigger hormonal changes that lead to hormonal acne flare-ups. Managing stress through relaxation techniques such as meditation or exercise can help keep your skin clear.
Diet considerations: While the relationship between diet and acne is still debated, some studies suggest that a diet rich in processed foods and dairy may contribute to acne breakouts. Focus on a balanced diet with plenty of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains.

Prevention plays a vital role in managing cystic acne. While treatments can help, these habits can complement your efforts to keep future breakouts at bay.

Final Thoughts

Dealing with cystic acne requires a combination of patience, consistency, and the right treatment plan. Natural remedies can help soothe and reduce symptoms, while medical treatments provide stronger options for severe cases. Whether you prefer natural solutions or need prescription-strength treatments, the right approach will depend on the severity of your cystic acne and your skin type. If natural remedies aren’t enough, consult a dermatologist to find a suitable treatment to help you manage cystic acne and prevent future breakouts.