Cystic Acne | What Causes Cystic Acne Plus Treatment

Cystic acne (often also called modular acne or nodulocystic acne) is normally considered severe because the blockage of the pores from oil and infection go deeper into the skin surface than common acne.

What Causes Cystic Acne?

Many dermatologists believe heredity can make individuals more susceptible to its effects. It is assumed that cystic acne has the same roots as common acne. Causes may include stress, hormonal changes, poor diet, overactive oil glands, excess dead skin, the presence of acne causing bacteria, some anti-perspirants, and improper washing. Cystic Acne looks very similar to common acne nodules. Yet the blockage goes much deeper and has 5mm diameter inflamed areas. Because hormones likely do play such a large part in cystic acne, it mainly affects people under the age of 30, but may also affect people all of their lives.

Cystic Acne Treatment

Most people who experience cystic acne on a regular basis go to a dermatologist for treatment. The doctor can prescribe acne medications that can help relieve the current outbreak and prevent future outbreaks. One treatment for cystic acne that seems to work well is the injection of cortisone into the cystic area. This helps lessen the inflammation. There is some disagreement as to whether it helps healing. Anecdotal evidence suggests that it may actually slow healing. Other prescription medications that work well for cystic acne, unfortunately some have severe side affects.

Great care should be taken in dealing with the pustules that form, as improper treatment, such as popping the pustule, or scratching the skin can actually cause permanent damage such as pitting or scarring. Also such action can help spread the bacteria that causes acne. Topical creams and other over the counter treatments are available at most drug and grocery stores. Though these are not generally as effective as treatment by a physician they can go a long way in relieving the problem.