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How to Get Rid of Cystic Acne: A Complete Guide

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Cystic acne is a severe form of acne that can cause painful bumps and leave permanent scarring if not properly treated. Addressing cystic acne is essential for maintaining healthy and clear skin. In this comprehensive guide, we promise to provide effective solutions for managing and clearing severe cystic acne.

Understanding Cystic Acne

Magnifying glass focusing on acne and skin blemishes on a woman's cheek


Cystic acne is one of the most severe forms of acne, often causing deep, painful cysts that form beneath the skin’s surface.

These cysts are filled with pus and can lead to significant discomfort, scarring, and emotional distress. Unlike other forms of acne, cystic acne tends to be larger and more inflamed, often taking a long time to heal.

It is a challenging condition to manage, requiring targeted treatment and care. Cystic acne commonly affects areas like the face, chest, back, and shoulders, where sebaceous glands are most active, leading to the formation of painful cysts that can persist for weeks or even months.

Causes and Triggers of Cystic Acne


Several factors contribute to the development of cystic acne. Hormonal fluctuations are one of the most significant triggers, with many individuals experiencing flare-ups during puberty, menstruation, pregnancy, or other phases of hormonal change.

Genetic predisposition also plays a role, as individuals with a family history of cystic acne are more likely to develop it themselves.

Additionally, excessive oil production, often associated with an overactive sebaceous gland, can clog pores and lead to the formation of cysts.

Certain foods, such as dairy products or high-glycemic foods, may exacerbate acne for some people, though the connection varies.

Skincare products that are comedogenic (pore-clogging) or harsh can also worsen cystic acne by irritating the skin and increasing inflammation. Identifying and addressing these triggers is crucial for effectively managing cystic acne.

Difference Between Cystic Acne and Other Types of Acne

Close-up of a face with visible acne and skin imperfections


Cystic acne differs from other types of acne, such as whiteheads or blackheads, in both its depth and severity. While whiteheads and blackheads are surface-level blemishes caused by clogged pores, cystic acne forms deep beneath the skin’s surface.

The cysts associated with cystic acne are often large, red, and painful, and they can take longer to heal. The deep inflammation in cystic acne can also lead to scarring, unlike the more superficial acne types.

Because of its deeper formation, cystic acne requires more aggressive treatments, such as prescription medications or professional interventions like drainage or corticosteroid injections, to reduce inflammation and promote healing.

Unlike milder forms of acne, which may be controlled with over-the-counter treatments, cystic acne often requires a more personalized, long-term treatment approach.

Treatment Options for Cystic Acne

Skincare Routines and Products

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An effective skincare routine is essential in managing cystic acne, as it helps to keep the skin clean, reduce inflammation, and prevent clogged pores. Gentle cleansing is the first step, as harsh scrubbing can irritate the skin and exacerbate acne.

Opting for a mild, non-comedogenic (pore-friendly) cleanser will help remove excess oil and impurities without irritating the skin.

Exfoliation can also be beneficial, but it should be done carefully to avoid over-exfoliating, which may worsen acne.

Ingredients like salicylic acid and benzoyl peroxide are key components of an acne-fighting skincare regimen. Salicylic acid helps to break down dead skin cells and unclog pores, while benzoyl peroxide kills acne-causing bacteria and reduces inflammation.

Additionally, using an oil-free moisturizer is essential to prevent further clogging of pores, ensuring that the skin remains hydrated without contributing to excess oil production.

Prescription Medications

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For severe cases of cystic acne, over-the-counter products may not be sufficient, and prescription medications become necessary.

Dermatologists may recommend oral medications like isotretinoin, a powerful drug that reduces oil production, prevents clogged pores, and diminishes inflammation. It is often prescribed for patients with persistent cystic acne that has not responded to other treatments.

Topical retinoids, such as tretinoin or adapalene, may also be prescribed to increase cell turnover, prevent clogged pores, and reduce inflammation.

These medications help regulate the skin’s natural exfoliation process and can prevent the formation of new cysts.

Lifestyle Changes and Home Remedies

Fresh ginger, lemons, mint leaves, and a bowl of honey on a wooden table

Lifestyle changes can complement medical treatments and help manage cystic acne. Maintaining a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and healthy fats can support skin health and reduce inflammation.

Some people find that limiting dairy or high-glycemic foods, such as processed sugars and refined carbs, can help prevent acne flare-ups. Managing stress is another crucial factor, as stress can trigger hormonal fluctuations that worsen acne.

Techniques like mindfulness, exercise, and getting enough sleep can help reduce stress levels and benefit overall skin health. Home remedies like tea tree oil and aloe vera may also provide relief.

Tea tree oil has antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties that can help soothe the skin and reduce acne-related inflammation. Aloe vera is known for its calming and healing properties, making it a great option for soothing irritated skin.

Professional Treatments for Cystic Acne

Kosme Aesthetics Acne Facial Treatment

Image credit: Kosme Aesthetics Acne Treatment

Say goodbye to persistent acne and hello to a radiant complexion with Kosme Aesthetics' comprehensive Acne Facial Treatment.

Our 60-minute, all-inclusive service is designed to tackle acne at its roots, leaving you with visibly clearer and rejuvenated skin.

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Scientifically-Backed Process: Our 8-step treatment combines cutting-edge techniques and premium products to combat acne effectively:

  • Double Cleanse: Thoroughly removes impurities
  • Scrubber Extraction: Gently unclogs pores
  • Pre-Peel Preparation: Primes skin for treatment
  • Glycolic Acid Peel: Exfoliates and renews skin
  • Post-Peel Care: Soothes and balances
  • Specialized Acne-Prone Skin Mask: Targets specific concerns
  • Dragon Blood Ampoule: Boosts cell regeneration and recovery
  • Comprehensive Aftercare: Protects and nourishes

Powerful Benefits:

  • Treats active acne and existing scars
  • Promotes skin rejuvenation
  • Unclogs pores and regulates sebum production
  • Reduces inflammation and bacteria
  • Exfoliates dead skin cells for a brighter complexion

Our Real result

Before the acne treatment from Kosme Aesthetics.

After receiving the acne treatment from Kosme Aesthetics.

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Chemical Peels and Microdermabrasion

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Chemical peels and microdermabrasion are two common professional treatments used to improve the appearance of acne-prone skin and address acne scars.

Chemical peels involve the application of a chemical solution to the skin that exfoliates the top layers, helping to clear clogged pores, reduce acne breakouts, and stimulate new skin cell growth.

This process can improve skin texture and fade acne scars over time. Microdermabrasion is a non-invasive procedure that uses a device to gently exfoliate the skin, removing dead skin cells and promoting cell turnover.

This treatment can help reduce the severity of cystic acne breakouts by keeping the skin clear and unclogged. Both treatments can be effective in improving skin appearance and reducing acne-related issues, but multiple sessions may be needed to see optimal results.

Laser Therapy and Light Treatments

Patient undergoing a facial treatment with a medical device in a clinic

Laser therapy and light treatments are advanced options for targeting acne at its source. These treatments work by targeting acne-causing bacteria, reducing inflammation, and promoting healing in the skin.

For example, blue light therapy uses specific wavelengths of light to kill acne-causing bacteria, while red light therapy helps reduce inflammation and encourages collagen production, aiding in the healing of acne scars.

Additionally, lasers such as the fractional CO2 laser can penetrate deep into the skin to treat both active acne and acne scars by stimulating collagen production and resurfacing the skin.

These treatments are often effective in controlling cystic acne and improving skin texture, but they typically require multiple sessions to achieve the best results. Patients should consult with a dermatologist to determine which laser therapy or light treatment is most suitable for their specific skin concerns.

Corticosteroid Injections

Aesthetician injecting a treatment into a patient's face during a cosmetic procedure

For severe cystic acne lesions that are painful and inflamed, corticosteroid injections can provide quick and effective relief.

A dermatologist injects a diluted form of corticosteroid directly into the acne cysts, reducing inflammation and shrinking the cysts within a few days.

This treatment is particularly useful for large, deep cysts that do not respond to topical treatments or oral medications. The injection can help alleviate pain and speed up the healing process, preventing further scarring.

While corticosteroid injections are highly effective for reducing cyst size and inflammation, they are typically reserved for more severe cases, as repeated use may lead to side effects, such as skin thinning or the potential for skin discoloration.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the fastest way to get rid of a cystic pimple?

What triggers cystic acne?

Can cystic acne go away on its own?

How do you get rid of cystic acne naturally?

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