Cystic Acne Treatment
Acne and cystic area is one of the most common dermatology skin conditions, treated by expert NYC dermatologist, Dr. Michele Green. According to the American Academy of Dermatology, up to 50 million Americans are affected by some type of acne each year. Cystic acne is a severe type of acne that is characterized by painful, pus-filled pimples forming deep below the skin’s surface. Cysts usually don’t have heads, nor do they typically resolve without the right acne treatment. Over-the-counter topical skincare products that would work for normal breakouts are often ineffective for treating cystic acne. It is best to consult with a board-certified dermatologist, like Dr. Michele Green in New York City, for cystic acne treatment, to provide a customized treatment plan for you.
Initiating the correct cystic acne treatment plan from the outset is important because cystic acne is the most likely type of acne to cause acne scars. There is a wide range of acne treatment options that may be recommended by Dr. Green depending on the cause of the acne cysts, frequency of breakouts, and the amount of acne scarring present. Dr. Green incorporates the best skin care for her patients, from her MGSKINLABs line of products, with ingredients such as benzoyl peroxide, retinoids, salicylic acid cleansers, oil free moisturizers, and more. When severe acne occurs, oral medications such as antibiotics, Spironolactone, or Isotretinoin may be used. Corticosteroid injections, acne surgery, HydraFacials, Oxygen facial, microdermabrasion, VBeam® laser, BLU-U Light, and chemical peels, are just a few of the best acne treatments that Dr. Green utilizes in her discreet NYC dermatology office.
Dr. Green is an internationally renowned expert in the field of dermatology, with over two and a half decades of experience providing her patients with the best non-invasive treatment options available, including for cystic acne breakouts and acne scars. Castle Connolly, New York Magazine, Super Doctors, and The New York Times consistently identify Dr. Green as one of the best dermatologists in New York for her dedication to her patients and expertise. She takes pride in carefully creating customized treatment plans for each patient based on their medical history, their cosmetic goals, and their unique situation. If you are looking for a solution to your cystic acne breakouts, Dr. Green is here to help.
What is Cystic Acne?
There are several different types of acne lesions including whiteheads, blackheads, papules, pustules, nodules, and cysts. Cystic Acne is the most severe type of acne, and it develops when acne-causing bacteria, dead skin cells, and excess oil clog the sebaceous glands and cause inflammation deep below the surface of the skin. Cystic acne lesions typically do not ever form a ‘head’ and do not respond well to over-the-counter topical acne treatments that would commonly work for other types of acne. These deep acne cysts are usually pus-filled and appear as large, red, tender bumps. Cystic acne is often extremely painful and is the type of acne that is most associated with acne scarring. If you develop cystic acne, it is important to consult a board certified dermatologist, like NYC based Dr. Michele Green, immediately to treat the infection and prevent acne scarring. Treatment of cystic acne may require oral antibiotics such as Minocycline or Doxycycline and in recalcitrant cases, Accutane (isotretinoin).
5 months before and after Acne treatment
What causes Cystic Acne?
Cystic acne lesions develop due to oil glands, at the base of hair follicles in the skin, becoming clogged with excess sebum, dirt, debris, and dead skin cells. While acne cysts are most often associated with oily skin, those who have normal, dry, or combination skin types can also develop acne lesions and cysts. Anyone can potentially develop cystic acne, but this skin condition most commonly affects both male and female teenagers, those patients with a genetic or familial disposition, and adults with hormonal imbalances. Cystic acne may develop due to a combination of factors including genetics, hormones, stress, underlying medical conditions (such as polycystic ovarian syndrome), and a poor skincare routine.
A large component of cystic acne is considered to be genetic, since the likelihood of developing cystic acne tends to be higher if one or both parents have a history of cystic acne breakouts. Some patients are simply more prone to cystic acne than others due to their skin’s natural oil production. Due to these hereditary association, there is a a tendency for cystic acne to run in families. Hormonal imbalances are also known to play a role in the development of cystic acne breakouts. Androgen hormones, like testosterone, regulate the production of sebum. When androgen levels are imbalanced, such as during puberty, pregnancy, or menstrual cycle, the oil glands in the skin produce excess amounts of sebum. It is the production of excess oil and increased androgen activity that clogs the pores and causes cystic acne. To develop the best personalized cystic acne treatment plan for each patient, Dr. Green will thoroughly evaluate your medical and family history, and may order certain lab tests to determine the underlying causes of the cystic acne breakouts.
How can a dermatologist help me get rid of cystic acne?
Generally, over-the-counter treatments just don’t work for clearing cystic acne breakouts. A dermatologist has the experience and expertise to create a treatment plan that is best suited to your specific needs. Dr. Michele Green is a world-renowned expert in the field of dermatology, especially when it comes to treating acne breakouts and acne scars. Dr. Green has over two and a half decades providing her diverse patients from around the globe with the best non-invasive treatment options for rejuvenation, including for resolving acne, acne scars, psoriasis, skin cancer, and more. The first step in developing a customized treatment plan for your unique situation is by thoroughly evaluating your medical history, which will be completed during your initial consultation with Dr. Green. The medical history typically details any personal and family experience with acne breakouts, including any previous acne treatments that you have undergone. A physical evaluation of your skin is then performed, and lab tests may be ordered to determine which combination of in-office treatments and specially formulated at home skin care products will be best suited to resolving your unique situation. Whether you are experiencing whiteheads, blackheads, pimples, pustules, or cysts, Dr. Green is here to help resolve your acne and provide you with a blemish-free, clear, smooth, beautiful complexion that lasts.
What are the best treatment options for cystic acne?
There are a myriad of treatment options available when it comes to dealing with cystic acne. The right cystic acne treatment or combination of acne treatments that’s right for you and your skin may depend on several factors including your skin type, the type of acne you’re dealing with, the underlying cause of your acne, and your medical history. Instead of suffering through endless DIY acne treatments, schedule an appointment with a board-certified dermatologist, like Dr. Green in NYC, who can help you develop a personalized plan to resolve your acne permanently and achieve a clear, smooth, healthy complexion that lasts. Below are some of the treatment options available that Dr. Green often recommends to her patients who struggle with acne.
Acne treatment – 1 and 6 months after.
Oral acne medications to treat cystic acne
Depending on the underlying cause of your acne, there are several prescription medications available that may help resolve and control breakouts. It is often recommended to use some form of oral medication to best treat cystic acne breakouts, especially if you are prone to recurring cystic acne.
Oral antibiotics such as Doxycycline and Tetracycline are great for helping to resolve cases of mild to moderate and even severe inflammatory acne, including cystic acne. The frequency and strength of your prescription may depend on the severity of your acne condition. These antibiotics are advised when topical acne treatments have failed. Oral antibiotics need to be taken for a period of time prescribed by Dr. Green, and the completed course will be ascertained. Probiotics are generally recommended while taking oral antibiotics to improve gut health.
Oral Isotretinoin is one of the most effective treatments for severe acne, helping to prevent new nodules from forming as well as keeping acne scars from developing. In the past, Accutane (brand name for Isotretinoin) was reserved for only the most severe cases of recalcitrant cystic acne. However, Accutane’s use has expanded to include moderate cases of acne, or chronic acne breakouts which have not responded to other treatments. More dermatologists are recommending Accutane in order to best prevent permanent scarring and to achieve blemish-free skin more effectively. There can be various known side effects related to Accutane and your acne treatment should always be supervised by a board-certified dermatologist, like Dr. Michele Green. Women who are taking Accutane for their cystic acne are required to get monthly blood tests to make sure that they are not pregnant. Strict sun avoidance and sunscreen use is required while taking Accutane, as it can make you very to sunburns during the course of your acne treatment.
Spironolactone (brand name Aldactone) is a medication that can be used to help to combat hormonal changes or imbalances that may be contributing to the development of acne breakouts. Spironolactone has historically been used as a blood pressure medication, although it has been found to controls androgen levels as well. When the levels of androgens are increased, this can lead to an overproduction of sebum within the skin, creating cystic acne lesions. Acne prone patients, when hormonal involvement is the cause, or patients with Polycystic Ovary Syndrome, typically find great relief of their acne breakouts by taking spironolactone. For other patients, this medication greatly helps to regulate the hormonal fluctuations which can cause adult acne.
Oral contraceptives/birth control pills can help regulate the hormones that spike during a woman’s menstrual cycle and control the acne flares associated with those changes. Birth control pills are used to prevent hormonal acne by keeping hormones in balance. Oral contraceptives have been approved by the FDA to treat women who struggle with hormonal acne. Two of the most popular brands of birth control pills that are used to treat acne are Yaz and Ortho Tri-Cyclen, which combine estrogen and progestin. Unfortunately there are some potential side effects associated with taking birth control pills. Possible side effects include weight gain, nausea, mood swings, and an increased risk of blood clots. Women should avoid cigarette smoking while on oral contraceptives as this further increases your risk for developing blood clots.
Chemical Peels for cystic acne treatment
A chemical peel is a procedure that is designed to help with increasing the rate of skin cell turnover, encouraging dead skin cells, debris, and dirt to be sloughed off more quickly than they would on their own. A chemical peel can help to unclog the pores and reveal a healthier complexion that is more even in tone and texture, as well as be used to prevent or eliminate acne. There are a wide variety of chemical peels that can be used to target different skin concerns depending on the solution and the strength of that solution. During your consultation, Dr. Green can select the appropriate chemical peel, for both your condition and skin type, to help treat acne breakouts and prevent acne scars from forming.
Accutane 6 monthsbefore and after
HydraFacials for treating acne breakouts
A HydraFacial is a three-step medical-grade facial that focuses on gentle exfoliation, deep cleansing, and intense nourishment of the skin. One of the greatest features of the HydraFacial is that it can be customized to cater to the individual skincare needs of each patient. By incorporating specially selected serums, or ‘boosters’, the HydraFacial can serve as a targeted acne treatment and work to reduce acne breakouts. The first step in the HydraFacial treatment is the cleansing of the skin. The HydraFacial utilizes a handheld device to deliver a combination of serums through vortex fusion tip, applying the ingredients to the skin in a concentrated manner while simultaneously suctioning dirt, debris, and dead skin cells away.
The second step in the process is the administration of a chemical peel. This step helps to increase the rate of skin cell turnover, which is exfoliating and is typically designed with a combination of salicylic and glycolic acids. Both of these ingredients also happen to be beneficial for acne treatment and can help to break up the oil that is clogging the pores and contributing to acne. Different grades or strengths of chemical peels can be incorporated into this step, depending on the degree of acne breakouts. In addition, Dr. Green has medical grade acids that she can incorporate into this crucial second step.
The third step of the HydraFacial is the infusion of rich antioxidants that nourish the skin and help to reinforce the skins’ natural protective barrier. This third step helps to enhance necessary moisture retention and keep any toxins or environmental irritants from penetrating the skin. Different boosters can be incorporated at this time, for redness, hyperpigmentation, or other skin brighteners.
Blue LED (BLU-U®) light therapy is the final step of the HydraFacial process. The blue light works to eliminate acne-causing bacteria as well as improve the overall appearance of oily skin and clogged pores. When you a schedule a HydraFacial with the office of Dr. Green, she will work with you to customize your HydraFacial so that it addresses your primary skin concerns and leaves you with a healthy, radiant, glowing complexion.
Acne surgery to treat acne breakouts
Acne surgery is an in-office procedure that entails creating an opening in active acne lesions, removing the contents using a comedonal acne expresser, and then providing corticosteroid injections directly into the emptied lesions in order to help to relieve inflammatory acne. Steroid shots can also help relieve some of the inflammation that is commonly associated with cystic acne lesions. This treatment method is a quick technique that can be used to remove sebum and dead skin cells that are trapped within the pores and causing acne. Extracting the contents of the active acne lesions prevents acne scars and allows the skin to heal.
VBeam Laser for acne treatment, acne scars, rosacea, and redness
The VBeam laser operates on a wavelength that exclusively targets any red pigment within the skin. This energy is converted into heat in the skin and absorbed by the atoms which are responsible for this red color, leaving the surrounding skin untouched. By incorporating Vbeam laser treatment with your acne treatment, the redness and inflammation associated with acne breakouts can be effectively diminished. As an added bonus, there is no downtime associated with VBeam treatment, meaning that you can resume your normal daily activities immediately after completing a treatment session. Additionally, there is a Dynamic Cooling Device with the Vbeam laser. This is designed to cool the skin prior to emitting the burst of light, making the procedure pain free.
VBeam- 4 sessions
What is the Best Skincare to use for cystic acne?
Anyone who has dealt with cystic acne knows that managing breakouts can be a challenge. To best prevent cysts from forming, acne-fighting ingredients should be included in your skin care regimen. Careful selection of topical products for treating acne, whether they are purchased over-the-counter or if they are prescription lotions or creams, is critical. Benzoyl peroxide, salicylic acid, glycolic acid, and topical retinoids are some of they key ingredients to look for when creating a skincare regimen that’s targeted to treat and control acne. Below are some of Dr. Green’s recommendations for skincare when you’re struggling with cystic acne.
When you have cystic acne, an acne spot treatment or cleanser that contains benzoyl peroxide or salicylic acid will be helpful for eliminating acne-causing bacteria from the skin and shrinking acne lesions. Cleanse your skin twice a day without excessive scrubbing. Scrubbing too hard or over washing the skin can actually cause your skin to overproduce oil as a response. Additionally, if you have sensitive skin, ingredients like benzoyl peroxide may be too aggressive for you and cause a negative skin reaction. Dr. Green’s specially formulated pore minimizing cleanser is made with salicylic acid and glycol acid, designed to treat acne prone skin and effectively eliminate acne lesions. This Pore Minimizer cleanser from MGSKINLABs, Inc. removes oil and sebum from deep within the skin, minimizing the appearance of pores and leaving behind clear, smooth, healthy looking skin.
In terms of topical acne treatments, Adapalene (Differin gel) and tretinoin (Retin-A), along with other topical retinoids, are derived from vitamin A and are commonly used in the treatment of inflammatory acne and cystic acne. Azelaic acid is another topical cystic acne treatment. Azelaic acid has anti-inflammatory properties, and can use both to treat cystic acne and improve hyperpigmentation from acne breakouts. These topicals are available on amazon and beneficial for acne prone skin because they help exfoliate away dead skin cells and sebum that cause the pores to become clogged. Those who have sensitive skin may not be able to tolerate retinoids as they can cause dryness and skin irritation.
Best Topical Creams for Cystic Acne
Noncomedogenic, oil-free moisturizers and sunscreens are essential for those who have acne prone skin. The term noncomedogenic indicates that the skincare product won’t cause the pores to become clogged, reducing the incidence of acne development. Anyone with oily or acne prone skin may be averse to the idea of applying a moisturizer to their skin for fear of triggering a breakout, however, hydration is important for all skin types, including oily and acne prone. By keeping your skin well moisturized you can ensure that the natural protective barrier of the skin is healthy and that your skin has the appropriate nutrients and strength to remain healthy and fight acne causing bacteria. Additionally, the harsh UV rays from the sun can exacerbate breakouts and create the appearance of dark marks where acne lesions are. In order to prevent the development of these dark marks and avoid worsening the appearance of your breakout, SPF of at least 30 should be used and reapplied often. While some sunscreens may clog the pores and create pimples, there are some which are designed for acne prone skin. It is best to incorporate a sunscreen that is oil free with a dry finish to prevent an exacerbation of your cystic acne.
How to treat cystic acne while pregnant
It is common for women to experience cystic acne breakouts while pregnant due to an increased release of various hormones, including androgens. These hormones can impact the amount of sebum produced in the skin, leading to excess oil accumulation within the skin, which then clogs the pores and causes cystic acne lesions to form. Pregnancy is a very special time and it is extremely important to be careful with what skincare products and medications are used during this period to ensure safety of both the mother and developing fetus. Consult with both a board certified dermatologist, like Dr. Green, and your obstetrician prior to use of any topical skincare products or oral medications for use in treating acne while you are pregnant.
While there are many products which are safe to use while pregnant, other medications such as retinoids and antibiotics such as tetracyclines, can cause potential birth defects. If you choose to breastfeed, many of these same medications should be avoided, since the effects can be passed to your infant. Again, it is always best to check with your obstetrician or pediatrician, when breastfeeding, to ensure any medication is safe for your baby.
One of the most important things to remember is do not pick at your acne! Picking at pimples only leads to worsening the acne, causing sebum to be pushed deeper into the skin and inflammation surrounding the lesion to increase. The increased amount of inflammation is what can cause permanent damage to the skin and lead to the formation of acne scars. Acne scars are often even more difficult to treat than the acne itself. While pregnant, consult with Dr. Green as to which cleansers and skincare products are safe to use. After delivering your baby, schedule a consultation with Dr. Green to discuss the best acne treatment options that are available.
How to get rid of cystic acne fast
The fastest way to resolve cystic acne is by consulting a board certified dermatologist, like Dr. Michele Green. By combining in-office treatments such as acne surgery, with oral medications like isotretinoin, you will see your acne heal much more quickly than it would with any DIY method or homeopathic remedies. Working with an expert in dermatology will always be the quickest, safest, and most efficient way to tackle cystic acne breakouts and help prevent any acne scarring. To help resolve active cystic acne, Dr. Green may prescribe oral antibiotics that work internally to eliminate acne. She may recommend chemical peels, intralesional steroid injections, or acne surgery, to get rid of your cystic acne quickly.
Do spot treatments work on cystic acne?
Unfortunately, spot treatments that typically work wonders for whiteheads, blackheads, pimples, and pustules just do not work on cystic acne lesions. Most of your topical skincare products, no matter how targeted the ingredients are and how miraculous they may be for treating other forms of acne, are ineffective when it comes to addressing cysts. Cystic acne sits deep within the lower layers of the skin, making it especially difficult for topical spot treatments to penetrate the skin at the depth necessary to effectively treat the cyst. If you think that you feel a pimple coming on, it may be helpful to apply a bit of spot treatment to the area even before the lesion fully forms. This can potentially help manage skin inflammation before things get too out of hand. It would be ideal if a spot treatment existed that could handle cystic acne lesions. As of yet, there is nothing of the sort exists. Consulting with a board certified dermatologist, like Dr. Green, is the best way to manage cystic acne and prevent the formation of acne scars.
Do pimple patches work for cystic acne?
First of all, what is a pimple patch? A pimple patch is a hydrocolloid bandage that can be used to cover an inflammatory acne lesion, drawing out the sebum and oil that’s clogged within the pores. Hydrocolloid bandages work to dry up any surface level pimples and pustules, and many pimple patches are even medicated with additional acne fighting ingredients to help further minimize breakouts. While a pimple patch can be an effective method for removing the contents of an acne lesion that is on the skin’s surface, they are essentially worthless when it comes to addressing acne that forms deep beneath the surface of the skin, like cysts. Applying a hydrocolloid bandage to a cyst might be able to help with reducing the size of the lesion, although it is highly unlikely that it will successfully and completely eliminate a cyst. If you insist on using a pimple patch to treat this type of acne, then opt for a brand that offers medicated patches as opposed to regular unmedicated hydrocolloid bandages.
How to treat cystic acne at home
While a Google search might highlight a slew of possible homeopathic remedies designed to cure your cystic acne, the very best treatment that is available for any form of acne (especially cystic acne) is found through treatment with a board certified dermatologist, like Dr. Michele Green. It is incredibly important that cystic acne be addressed swiftly and professionally since cystic acne lesions are the most likely to leave behind permanent acne scars. Acne scarring typically occurs after cystic acne breakouts because of the sheer amount of intense skin inflammation associated with cysts. This skin inflammation causes damage to the skin tissue that, unfortunately, the skin is unable to repair on its own. The result is usually an area of depressed skin that is tethered by bands of scar tissue. In order to actively prevent acne scars from forming and in order to clear cystic acne as quickly, safely, and effectively as possible, one should always meet with a board-certified dermatologist who can promptly diagnose your skin condition and prescribe you the appropriate combination of medications, topical skincare products, and in-office treatments to help you achieve a blemish-free complexion that lasts.
That being said, by making some slight adjustments in lifestyle, it is possible that you could potentially alleviate some of your acne symptoms. Cystic acne vulgaris can be exacerbated by different triggers, and identifying them can be a way to help reduce some of the breakouts. Cystic acne is largely genetic and can not, however, be attributed to one singular causal factor. Acne is largely genetic, though some external factors may cause a flare. Your dermatologist can help you identify factors that may be contributing to your cystic acne breakouts.
When it comes to home remedies for cystic acne, there are a few treatments that may help and can even be used as a supplement to your acne medications, skincare products, and in-office treatments with a derm. Tea tree oil is a helpful homeopathic remedy for reducing acne lesions, including cystic acne. Tea tree oil is naturally anti-microbial and anti-inflammatory, making it a beneficial topical treatment for acne lesions. There are some patients who love to incorporate clay face masks into their acne treatment routines, since clay can deeply penetrate the pores and remove impurities like sebum, oil, and debris that contributes to acne lesions.
What makes cystic acne worse?
Picking at your pimples is always guaranteed to make them worse! The problem with attempting to extract your pimple at home on your own (rather than having an acne surgery procedure done in a dermatology office, performed by a board certified and trained skin expert) is that you can exacerbate the inflammation surrounding the lesion, force the sebum in the pore even deeper into the skin, and potentially create permanent scarring. All of this is especially true when it comes to cystic acne lesions. Why is it so harmful to try and pop a cyst? It can be particularly damaging to the skin to try and extract a cystic acne lesion because cysts form far below the surface layer of the skin. Cystic acne develops at a level within the skin that prevents the lesion from connecting to the surface of the skin, making it essentially impossible to manually extract the cyst by popping it. Should one attempt to pop a cyst, the result will unfortunately be a lesion that is even more inflamed, red, and painful, with the cyst still remaining below the top layers of irritated skin. Do not try and pop your cystic acne! When you visit the New York City office of Dr. Michele Green, she will discuss which combination of products, procedures, and medications will help you get rid of your acne cysts as quickly, safely, and painlessly as possible.
Trying to pop a cystic acne lesion is not the only thing that can make them worse. No one can deny that cleansing your skin with the appropriate products is an essential part of preventing and treating acne. However, over washing the skin or scrubbing too aggressively while cleansing can also be a cause of worsening your cystic acne. The skin naturally produces oil and sebum to act as a necessary lubrication for the skin. When harsh cleansers or exfoliants are used in excess or incorrectly, they can potentially strip the skin of all the essential oils it produces to act as moisturizer. The skin typically responds to this by over producing additional sebum and oil in order to try and rehydrate the skin and compensate for the stripped oils. It is important to keep this in mind when selecting your skincare products and to adapt your skincare regimen to ensure that you are not exacerbating your acne, causing your skin to produce excess oil by over washing, or causing other types of skin irritation. This is especially important if you are someone who has sensitive skin. This is because there are many acne fighting ingredients which can be potentially irritating to your skin. Your skin needs to retain essential oils and nutrients in order to remain healthy and combat acne! During a consultation with Dr. Green you will have the opportunity to discuss which skincare products would be best suited to your skin type and skin situation and the appropriate ways to use those products.
While cystic acne flares can mostly be attributed to ones genetics, there are some external factors that might trigger their onset. Some of these triggers include hormones that are in flux (particularly the sex hormones, androgens), lack of sleep, high levels of stress, as well as a diet that is rich in sugar, dairy, and fat. With Dr. Green you will delve into your medical history and identify any potential triggers that may be in part leading to your cystic acne breakouts. She may request that some blood work be sent to the lab in order to evaluate for abnormal hormone levels. In addition to the customized treatment plan for cystic acne that you develop with Dr. Green, she may possibly recommend slight lifestyle adjustments that will help you to avoid external factors that could be triggers to your cystic acne breakouts.
How to heal a cystic acne scab
If a scab has formed over a cystic acne lesion, there are several steps that can be taken to ensure that it heals properly. The area should stay clean, moisturized, and covered with a bandage throughout the healing process. Keeping the wound clean by washing the area with water and a gentle facial cleanser will help eliminate bacteria and prevent infection. Try not to touch the scab and never pick it off, as this can exacerbate skin irritation and may lead to development of a scar. Using a hydrating moisturizer on the area will also help protect the skin and expedite the wound healing process, as wounds are able to heal much more quickly when moist rather than when they are dry. Hydrating your skin will also keep the area more comfortable as it heals, preventing excessive itchiness. Covering the wound with a bandage will protect it against any external irritation that could be caused by touching or scraping the area. If you cover the scab with a bandage, replace the dressing regularly. If you are struggling with cystic acne and are frustrated by cysts, scabs, or scars, schedule a consultation with Dr. Michele Green in New York City who can help you clear your breakouts once and for all.
How to treat hormonal cystic acne
Hormonal cystic acne, more common in females than males, often requires intervention with medications like spironolactone or birth control pills. These medications help to regulate hormonal irregularities that can be causing cystic acne breakouts.
Spironolactone (brand name Aldactone) is a medication that can be used to help to combat hormonal changes or imbalances that may be contributing to the development of acne breakouts. Spironolactone has historically been used as a blood pressure medication, although it has been found to controls androgen levels as well. When the levels of androgens are increased, this can lead to an overproduction of sebum within the skin, creating cystic acne lesions. Acne prone patients, when hormonal involvement is the cause, or patients with Polycystic Ovary Syndrome, typically find great relief of their acne breakouts by taking spironolactone. For other patients, this medication greatly helps to regulate the hormonal fluctuations which can cause adult acne.
Oral contraceptives/birth control pills can help regulate the hormones that spike during a woman’s menstrual cycle and control the acne flares associated with those changes. Birth control pills are used to prevent hormonal acne by keeping hormones in balance. Oral contraceptives have been approved by the FDA to treat women who struggle with hormonal acne. Two of the most popular brands of birth control pills that are used to treat acne are Yaz and Ortho Tri-Cyclen, which combine estrogen and progestin. Unfortunately there are some potential side effects associated with taking birth control pills. Possible side effects include weight gain, nausea, mood swings, and an increased risk of blood clots. Women should avoid cigarette smoking while on oral contraceptives as this further increases your risk for developing blood clots.
The first step in determining the underlying causes of your cystic acne and clearing your breakouts is consulting with a board-certified dermatologist with the expertise and experience to adequately manage the condition of your skin. Dr. Michele Green in NYC has over 25 years of experience providing the best acne and acne scar treatments to patients from around the globe, and will recommend the skincare products and treatments that are guaranteed to leave you with clear, blemish-free, healthy skin that lasts.
How to treat cystic acne on the back
Cystic acne that forms on the back for the same reasons that it forms elsewhere. Sebum clogs the sebaceous glands of the skin and entraps bacteria that forms an infection below the surface of skin, producing a cystic lesion. Genetics, hormones, and environmental factors may contribute to cystic acne on the back, but it may also be impacted by choices in apparel and hygiene practices. Showering after exercising or performing any activities that induce sweating is a good way to help prevent bacteria from causing acne on the back. Additionally, stick to lotions and sunscreens that are labeled as “non-comedogenic”, as these products will not clog the pores of the skin.
How to treat cystic acne on chin
If cystic acne breakouts are recurring on the chin and jawline, the underlying cause is likely at least partially hormonal. Especially in women, hormonal imbalances can lead to the overproduction of sebum in the chin and jaw area. This overproduction of sebum results in the development of acne breakouts, potentially including cystic lesions. Developing a plan to treat cystic acne on the chin is best done with a board-certified dermatologist, like Dr. Michele Green in NYC. During your consultation, Dr. Green will discuss with you regarding your medical history and family history in addition to performing a physical examination of your skin. If you are experiencing persistent breakouts of cystic acne on the chin, some samples of your blood may be collected and sent to the lab for evaluation in order to determine as to whether there are any hormone imbalances. Depending on the results, several various treatment options may be recommended, including helpful medications like oral antibiotics, isotretinoin, spironolactone, or oral contraceptives. Ultimately, you will have the opportunity to work with Dr. Green to determine which treatment for your cystic acne is the right approach for you.
How to get rid of cystic acne scars
It is important to treat cystic acne breakouts as soon as possible in order to best prevent the development of acne scars, because acne scars can be much more challenging to treat than the initial breakouts themselves. The inflammation associated with acne lesions can cause irreparable damage to the skin tissue, resulting in acne scars. Cystic acne is very inflammatory, and the most likely type of acne to result in acne scarring. Dr. Michele Green in NYC is an internationally renowned board-certified cosmetic dermatologist with over two and a half decades of experience providing acne and acne scar treatment to some of the most discerning men and women from around the world. Dr. Green is an expert when it comes to carefully customizing the acne scar treatment plans of patients, utilizing the most cutting edge technologies and innovative techniques to restore the confidence of patients with acne scars by giving them smooth, clear, radiant skin that lasts. Whether treatment consists of laser skin resurfacing with Fraxel laser, radiofrequency lasers such as eMatrix or Vivace, chemical peels, subcision with dermal fillers such as Restylane and Sculptra, or a unique combination of treatment modalities, Dr. Green will help you to look and feel like the absolute best version of yourself.
Where does cystic acne come from?
Cystic acne occurs when bacteria causes inflammation deep beneath the skin’s surface, forming a painful, pus-filled lesion without a head. Genetics and hormones are two of the biggest contributing factors to the development of cystic acne breakouts. To understand what is causing your cystic acne, it is best to consult with an expert, board-certified dermatologist like Dr. Michele Green in NYC.
Will cystic acne go away on its own?
Typically, cystic acne breakouts will not resolve on their own. Cystic acne, unlike other types of acne lesions, form when bacteria causes inflammation deep beneath the skin’s surface. Without treatment, the painful, pus-filled lesions can rupture beneath the surface of the skin, permanently damaging all of the surrounding skin tissue. This is why cystic acne is the type of acne that is most likely to cause acne scars, as well as due to the inflammation associated with the lesions. Cysts otherwise may take months to resolve on their own. In order to prevent damaging the skin tissue and keep permanent acne scars from forming, it is important to seek cystic acne treatment from a board-certified dermatologist, like Dr. Green, as soon as cysts develop.
Is cystic acne dangerous?
Breakouts of cystic acne aren’t inherently dangerous on their own, but attempting to pop the lesions or picking at them may lead to a serious skin infection. Cystic acne is also considered the most severe type of acne breakout. Cysts can be physically and mentally painful and are the most likely type of acne to lead to acne scarring. Many individuals with cystic acne struggle with the psychological effects of breakouts, including feelings of low self-esteem, self-consciousness, depression, and anxiety. These effects may cause some patients to avoid social activities and negatively impact their overall quality of life. A board-certified dermatologist, like Dr. Green in NYC, can help to quickly clear cystic acne breakouts and boost feelings of self-confidence by providing the right acne treatments for your skin condition.
Should you exfoliate cystic acne?
Yes! Patients with cystic acne should gently exfoliate their skin on a regular basis to remove the build up of dead skin cells and debris from the skin’s surface. Over-exfoliation can exacerbate the breakout, so it is important to refrain from using any harsh tools or scrubbing techniques to exfoliate, and instead use a gentle chemical exfoliant such as lactic acid, glycolic acid, or salicylic acid. Using a retinoid is another safe and effective way to gently exfoliate acne-prone skin. Retinoids are skincare products derived from vitamin A, including adapalene, tretinoin, and retinol. These products work by accelerating the rate of skin cell turnover, causing dead skin cells to slough off more quickly than they would on their own and helping to keep the pores clean and unclogged. Patients that are starting retinoid skincare products for the first time should slowly integrate their exfoliant into their routine, starting with applying just a pea-sized amount to clean, dry skin once or twice a week and increasing frequency as the skin adjusts. This will help prevent over-exfoliation and worsening any acne breakouts.
What to do when cystic acne starts
When cystic acne breakouts start, the first step is scheduling a consultation with a board-certified dermatologist, like Dr. Michele Green in New York City. Cysts are a type of acne lesion that are associated with a lot of inflammation, which can lead to serious and permanent damage of skin tissue. When inflammation causes irreparable damage to the tissue, the result is acne scars. Acne scars can be even more difficult to treat than acne breakouts themselves, which is why it’s so important to seek treatment from an experienced healthcare professional as soon as cystic acne starts. Dr. Green has over two and a half decades of experience treating patients from around the world for a host of skin conditions, including acne breakouts and acne scars, and will work with you to determine the best way to achieve clear, smooth, healthy skin that lasts.
How do I get started with cystic acne treatment today?
Cystic acne breakouts can be both physically and mentally painful and, for many, cause feelings of self-consciousness and low self-esteem. Whether you are trying to manage a single cystic pimple, facing a full breakout of acne, or struggling with acne scars left behind by severe cystic acne lesions, Dr. Michele Green in New York City is here to provide you with personalized solutions to strategically rid you of your acne and blemishes and get healthy, smooth, clear skin.
Dr. Green is an internationally renowned expert in the field of dermatology, with over two and a half decades of experience providing her patients from around the globe with customized treatment plans for achieving and maintaining a healthy, clear, smooth, and beautiful complexion that lasts. For her dedication to her patients and expertise, she is consistently identified as one of New York City’s best dermatologists by Castle Connolly, Super Doctors, New York Magazine, and The New York Times. Consulting with board-certified dermatologist Dr. Green is the safest and quickest way to treat your cystic acne breakouts and prevent acne scarring.
When you consult with Dr. Green, she will recommend a unique combination of the best in-office procedures, prescription medications, and specially-formulated skincare products to clear your acne based on your skin type, tone, and skincare needs. To get started with your individualized acne treatment and learn more about how Dr. Green can help you achieve beautiful clear skin, please contact us online today or call our New York City based dermatology office at 212-535-3088.