What is Cystic Acne?
Cystic acne, also known as nodulocystic acne, is a severe form of acne in which the skin is affected by inflamed cysts and nodules. It is caused by a combination of bacteria, excess sebum, and oil production, and is most commonly seen in teenagers and young adults. It can be quite painful and cause scarring if left untreated. While there is no one-size-fits-all treatment for cystic acne, developing a good skincare routine can help reduce the symptoms and prevent future breakouts.
Develop a Daily Skincare Routine
The first step in treating cystic acne is to create a daily skincare routine. Make sure to cleanse your face twice a day with a gentle cleanser. Avoid using harsh soaps, which can dry out the skin and make breakouts worse. After cleansing, apply an over-the-counter (OTC) benzoyl peroxide lotion or cream to the affected areas. Benzoyl peroxide helps reduce the bacteria that cause acne, while also unclogging pores and reducing inflammation. For best results, apply the OTC benzoyl peroxide after cleansing, and then again at night before bed.
Avoid Aggressive Exfoliation
It’s important to avoid aggressive exfoliation when dealing with cystic acne. Many people think that scrubbing the skin will help to unclog pores and reduce breakouts, but this can actually make the problem worse. Harsh exfoliants can irritate the skin, leading to more inflammation and breakouts. Instead, opt for a gentle exfoliant, such as a mild scrub or a chemical exfoliant (like glycolic acid) that can help to gently slough away dead skin cells and unclog pores.
Use Non-Comedogenic Moisturizers
When it comes to cystic acne, moisturizing is key. Make sure to use a non-comedogenic (non-clogging) moisturizer that won’t further irritate the skin. Look for products that are oil-free and won’t add any additional oil to the skin. Choose a moisturizer that is specifically formulated for acne-prone skin, as these products are designed to help reduce the appearance of breakouts. For best results, apply the moisturizer twice a day, once in the morning and once at night.
Look for Spot Treatments
Spot treatments can also be helpful in treating cystic acne. Look for products that contain salicylic acid, which can help reduce the bacteria that cause breakouts, as well as unclog pores and reduce inflammation. Spot treatments should be applied directly to the affected area, and can be used up to three times a day. For best results, apply the spot treatment after cleansing and before applying any other skincare products.
Avoid Sun Exposure
It’s important to avoid sun exposure when dealing with cystic acne. The sun’s ultraviolet (UV) rays can damage the skin and make breakouts worse. Make sure to wear sunscreen whenever you go out in the sun, and opt for a sunscreen specifically formulated for acne-prone skin. Look for a sunscreen that contains zinc oxide or titanium dioxide, which can help protect the skin without clogging pores.
Take Care of Your Hair
Hair care can also play a role in preventing and treating cystic acne. Make sure to keep your hair clean and free of oils and products that can clog pores. If you have long hair, keep it away from your face as much as possible, as the oils and products in your hair can transfer to your skin and cause breakouts. Additionally, avoid using tight headbands and hats, which can also irritate the skin.
Eat a Balanced Diet
A balanced diet can also help reduce the symptoms of cystic acne. Avoid processed and sugary foods, which can cause inflammation and worsen breakouts. Instead, focus on eating whole foods like fruits, vegetables, and lean proteins. These foods are packed with essential vitamins and minerals, which can help keep the skin healthy and reduce the appearance of acne.
See a Dermatologist
If you have tried all of the above steps and still cannot get your cystic acne under control, it may be time to see a dermatologist. A dermatologist can help you develop a tailored skincare routine that is specifically designed for your skin type. Additionally, they can prescribe more powerful medications, such as retinoids or antibiotics, that can help reduce the symptoms of cystic acne.
Conclusion
Cystic acne can be a difficult condition to treat, but with the right skincare routine, it is possible to reduce the symptoms and prevent future breakouts. Make sure to cleanse your face twice a day and apply an OTC benzoyl peroxide lotion or cream to the affected areas. Avoid aggressive exfoliation and use a non-comedogenic moisturizer. Look for spot treatments that contain salicylic acid and avoid sun exposure. Take care of your hair and eat a balanced diet, and see a dermatologist if necessary.