Cystic Acne Treatment

Cystic acne is a severe, inflammatory form of acne that develops deep within the skin, often causing pain and self-consciousness. Fortunately, a range of topical treatments, oral medications, and in-office procedures can help clear cystic acne breakouts at Dr. Michele Green’s private New York dermatology office. Because scarring from cystic acne can be more challenging to treat than the breakouts themselves, it’s important to seek treatment promptly. At her private practice on the Upper East Side of NYC, Dr. Green will help you clear your cystic acne and achieve a clear, healthy, radiant complexion.

There are many treatment options and preventive strategies to manage cystic acne and reduce the risk of future breakouts. Dr. Green’s exclusive skincare line, MGSKINLABS, offers products with acne-fighting ingredients such as benzoyl peroxide, salicylic acid, and retinol to reduce excess oil and combat acne. Because cystic acne develops deep within the skin, oral medications such as antibiotics, spironolactone, or isotretinoin (Accutane) may be recommended, alongside in-office treatments like cortisone injections, acne surgery, HydraFacials, and chemical peels. The most effective approach often combines topical treatments, oral medications, and in-office procedures. Dr. Michele Green in NYC is an expert in acne and scar treatment, creating a personalized plan tailored to your skin type, tone, and the specific type of acne you experience.

Dr. Michele Green is a globally recognized, board-certified dermatologist with over 25 years of experience developing personalized acne treatment plans tailored to each patient’s skin type, tone, and specific concerns. She is consistently named among New York’s top doctors by Castle Connolly, New York Magazine, The New York Times, and Super Doctors, recognized for her dedication and expertise. Dr. Green takes the time to build strong relationships with her patients, understanding their skin concerns and customizing treatment plans to meet their individual goals. During your consultation, she will recommend a personalized combination of oral medications, specially formulated skincare products, and in-office procedures to address your cystic acne and help you achieve clear, radiant skin.

What is Cystic Acne?

A cyst is a type of acne lesion — a large, red, painful acne bump that doesn’t develop a visible “head,” unlike smaller inflammatory papules. Cysts and nodules are the most severe forms of acne. They are usually filled with pus and form deep beneath the skin’s surface, making most over-the-counter treatments ineffective. Cystic acne is a highly inflammatory condition with a greater risk of permanent scarring. Common treatments include oral antibiotics, isotretinoin (Accutane), and spironolactone. While topical treatments can support oral medications in managing acne cysts, they generally cannot clear cystic breakouts on their own because they don’t penetrate deeply enough to treat or prevent these lesions. Still, patients with acne-prone skin should use skincare products suited to their specific skin type. Consulting an experienced, board-certified dermatologist like Dr. Michele Green offers the best approach for treating and preventing breakouts and acne scars.

What is the main cause of cystic acne?

Cystic acne lesions develop when excess oil, bacteria, and dead skin cells clog the sebaceous glands at the base of hair follicles. Breakouts most often affect the face but can appear anywhere oil glands are present, including the back, chest, shoulders, buttocks, and neck. Genetics can play a role, as the likelihood of cystic acne is higher when one or both parents have a history of it. Some people are also more prone to breakouts due to naturally oily skin and increased oil production. Hormonal changes during puberty, pregnancy, the menstrual cycle, and menopause can also raise the risk of cystic acne. While anyone can develop it, cystic acne primarily affects teenagers, those with a genetic predisposition, and adults with hormonal imbalances. Because the inflammation runs so deep, over-the-counter products are often ineffective, making treatment from a board-certified dermatologist, such as Dr. Green, essential to prevent scarring and lasting skin damage. During your consultation, Dr. Green will review your medical and family history, examine your skin, and order lab tests as needed to identify the cause of your acne and determine the best treatment plan.

Will cystic acne go away on its own?

Cystic acne is unlikely to clear without treatment. Unlike other types of acne, it develops when bacteria become trapped, and inflammation extends deep beneath the skin’s surface. Left untreated, cysts can take weeks to months to resolve, and the painful, pus-filled lesions may rupture beneath the skin, permanently damaging nearby tissue and leading to acne scars. Because cystic acne causes lasting damage to the surrounding skin, these scars are often harder to treat than the original breakouts. To prevent skin damage and permanent scarring, it’s essential to seek treatment from a board-certified dermatologist, such as Dr. Green, as soon as cysts appear.

Dermatology Acne Treatments for Cystic Acne in the Office

Acne surgery: How to shrink cystic pimples

The quickest way to reduce the pain of a cyst is an in-office treatment performed by a board-certified dermatologist, such as Dr. Michele Green. Acne surgery involves creating a small opening in an active lesion, removing the contents with a comedonal acne extractor, and administering a corticosteroid injection — often called a cortisone injection — directly into the emptied lesion to reduce inflammation and lower the risk of scarring. While acne surgery is effective for active blemishes, it doesn’t prevent new lesions from forming, so patients typically still need oral medications and topical treatments to resolve their breakouts fully. Dr. Green often combines this procedure with oral medications, personalized skincare routines, and laser treatments for long-term control.

VBeam Laser for acne blemishes

The VBeam laser is a top choice for eliminating facial redness, including that caused by acne. It targets red pigment at a specific wavelength, leaving surrounding skin unharmed, while also killing acne-causing bacteria, reducing inflammation, and stimulating new collagen production to reduce breakouts and improve skin texture. There is no downtime, the treatment is painless, and a dynamic cooling device enhances comfort with each pulse. Most patients require 4 to 6 VBeam sessions to eliminate redness fully.

HydraFacials to treat acne breakouts

A HydraFacial is a three-step, medical-grade facial that emphasizes deep cleansing, gentle exfoliation, and intense skin nourishment, delivered via a handheld device with a vortex fusion tip. The first step suctions away dirt, debris, and dead skin cells; the second applies a chemical peel combining salicylic and glycolic acids to boost cell turnover and break down excess oil that clogs pores; the third infuses the skin with antioxidants to nourish and reinforce the skin barrier. HydraFacials can be enhanced with LED light therapy — red light to reduce inflammation and blue light to eliminate acne-causing bacteria — as well as targeted boosters like the Murad Clarifying Booster, which combines salicylic acid with soothing green tea extract. When you schedule a HydraFacial with Dr. Green, she will customize the treatment to target your primary skin concerns and leave you with a healthy, radiant complexion.

Chemical Peels to treat acne

A chemical peel is a non-invasive skin-resurfacing treatment that accelerates skin cell turnover, helping remove dead skin cells, debris, and dirt more quickly than they would naturally, while clearing sebum from clogged pores and revealing a healthier, more even complexion. Different types and strengths of chemical peels are available to target concerns such as hyperpigmentation, acne scars, fine lines, rosacea, and sun damage. During your consultation, Dr. Green can determine the appropriate type and strength of chemical peel to treat your skin condition and help prevent future breakouts and acne scars.

Cystic Acne Treatment: Oral Medications

Oral antibiotics such as doxycycline and tetracycline effectively treat mild to severe inflammatory acne, including cystic acne, by reducing acne-causing bacteria on the skin’s surface. The frequency and strength of your prescription may vary with the severity of your skin condition, and it’s generally recommended to take probiotics while taking oral antibiotics.

Spironolactone (Aldactone) is prescribed to women to regulate androgens that contribute to acne breakouts. Elevated androgen levels can cause the skin to overproduce sebum, leading to cystic acne lesions. Women prone to hormonal acne, especially those with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), often find significant relief with spironolactone.

Oral contraceptives, or birth control pills, help regulate hormones that surge during a woman’s menstrual cycle and reduce acne flare-ups tied to those changes. Effective oral contraceptives for acne contain hormones such as estrogen and progestin — Yaz, Ortho Tri-Cyclen, and Estrostep are three FDA-approved options formulated to treat women with hormonal acne. Possible side effects include weight gain, nausea, mood swings, and a higher risk of blood clots. Women should avoid smoking while taking birth control pills, as it significantly increases the risk.

Oral isotretinoin is one of the most effective treatments for cystic acne. Once reserved only for the most severe cases of recalcitrant nodular or cystic acne, Accutane is now used to treat both moderate and chronic breakouts that haven’t responded to other treatments. A typical course lasts about 20 weeks, and 95 percent of patients experience a permanent reduction in their acne, while the remaining 5 percent usually achieve full clearance after a second course.

The most common side effects of Accutane include dryness of the lips, skin, and eyes. Because Accutane is metabolized by the liver, it’s important to avoid alcohol and limit dietary fats during treatment. Strict sun protection with sunscreen is necessary because Accutane is photosensitizing. The FDA regulates Accutane prescriptions, requiring monthly visits and blood tests from a board-certified dermatologist. Because Accutane can cause serious birth defects, patients who can become pregnant must have monthly pregnancy tests and either abstain from sex or use two forms of birth control during treatment.

What is the best treatment for cystic acne?

There isn’t a single “best” treatment for cystic acne because factors such as hormone levels, genetics, lifestyle, and skin sensitivity all influence the condition. What works well for one person might not work for another, so treatment is often personalized — some patients respond best to oral medications such as isotretinoin. In contrast, others benefit more from topical retinoids, in-office procedures, or a combination of approaches. The most effective plan typically tailors treatment to the severity of the acne, the patient’s skin type, and their long-term goals for acne control and scar prevention. Because untreated cystic acne can cause scars that are often harder to treat than the acne itself, patients should see a board-certified dermatologist, such as Dr. Michele Green, as soon as possible to stop breakouts and prevent scarring.

Should you pop cystic acne pimples?

No. While it may be tempting to pop a cyst, doing so can lead to serious complications. Cystic acne forms deep within the skin, so the lesion rarely reaches the surface, making manual extraction by popping nearly impossible. Attempting to pop a cystic lesion can cause inflammation, permanent skin damage, and scars that are often even harder to treat than the acne itself, and it can also introduce infection. Instead, consult a board-certified dermatologist, such as Dr. Michele Green, to develop a personalized treatment plan that includes prescription medications and in-office procedures to help clear your skin.

The best skincare routine to treat cystic acne

The foundation of an effective cystic acne routine starts with the right cleanser. Gentle cleansers containing salicylic acid, glycolic acid, or benzoyl peroxide help clear clogged pores, control excess oil, and prevent new breakouts without being too harsh for daily use. For sensitive skin, a mild foaming or cream-based cleanser can provide balance without stripping essential moisture.

After cleansing, targeted treatments are essential for managing cystic breakouts. Topical retinoids help regulate cell turnover and keep pores clear, while medicated pads or gels containing salicylic acid or benzoyl peroxide can be applied directly to active spots. Adapalene (Differin gel) and tretinoin (Retin-A), like other topical retinoids, are vitamin A derivatives commonly used to treat inflammatory and cystic acne. Azelaic acid is another topical option, valued for its anti-inflammatory properties that reduce cystic acne and improve hyperpigmentation. These treatments penetrate deeply, reducing inflammation and speeding healing — though individuals with sensitive skin may find retinoids difficult to tolerate because they can cause dryness and irritation.

Keeping skin properly hydrated is also key to healing. A lightweight, non-comedogenic moisturizer strengthens the skin barrier, prevents irritation from active treatments, and balances oil production, which is especially important when using salicylic acid, benzoyl peroxide, or retinoids. Lotions with calming ingredients such as niacinamide or ceramides are particularly effective at reducing redness and irritation. Finally, a broad-spectrum, oil-free sunscreen is vital for protecting against UV damage and preventing dark marks from worsening without clogging pores. When you consult with Dr. Green at her private dermatology office on Manhattan’s Upper East Side, she will develop a personalized skincare routine with products best suited to your skin type.

How to Prevent Acne Scars

Cystic acne forms deep beneath the skin, making it the most likely type of acne to leave permanent scars. The best way to prevent scarring is to treat breakouts early and avoid picking or squeezing lesions, which can push bacteria deeper and worsen inflammation. Gentle skincare, including non-irritating cleansers and consistent sun protection, helps skin heal more evenly. In-office treatments such as cortisone injections can quickly reduce swelling in painful cysts before they cause tissue damage. Oral or topical medications prescribed by a dermatologist can also help control inflammation and prevent cysts from progressing to a stage where scarring occurs.

How to get rid of cystic acne scars

Cystic acne is the most likely type of acne to cause scarring because it is highly inflammatory, and the resulting tissue damage is often more challenging to treat than the acne itself. Dr. Green creates personalized acne scar treatment plans using advanced technologies, including laser skin resurfacing with Fraxel or eMatrix, subcision with dermal fillers, microneedling, or a combination of methods.

The Fraxel Dual laser uses two wavelengths to improve skin appearance: the 1550nm Erbium laser targets acne scars, fine lines, and uneven texture, while the 1927nm Thulium laser focuses on sun damage and pigmentation. It delivers fractionated energy to stimulate collagen production, with minimal downtime and mild redness that can last up to 48 hours. Most patients need three to five sessions spaced about a month apart. The eMatrix laser uses radiofrequency energy to achieve a similar collagen-stimulating effect and is safe and effective for all skin tones, including darker skin. Dermal fillers such as Juvederm and Restylane, which contain hyaluronic acid, and Sculptra, which contains poly-L-lactic acid, restore lost volume and smooth depressed scars. Dr. Green often performs subcision beforehand to break up scar tissue for more effective results. Microneedling stimulates the body’s natural healing process to improve texture and reduce pore size. Dr. Green may pair it with a depigmentation serum or platelet-rich plasma (PRP) to accelerate healing and address post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation from previous breakouts.

How to treat cystic acne at home (home remedies)

While many websites claim that homeopathic remedies can cure cystic acne, the most effective treatment is to consult a board-certified dermatologist, such as Dr. Michele Green. Cystic acne lesions develop deep within the skin and generally do not respond to home remedies. Because these lesions have a high likelihood of leaving permanent scars, it’s essential to address them promptly and professionally. To prevent scarring and clear cystic acne quickly, safely, and effectively, always consult a board-certified dermatologist, who can recommend the right combination of medications, topical skincare products, and in-office treatments. For patients who want to improve the appearance of existing acne scars, Dr. Green also offers dermal fillers, Fraxel, eMatrix, and microneedling.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Cystic Acne Treatment

What’s the difference between cystic acne and regular acne?

Regular acne typically includes blackheads, whiteheads, and small inflammatory papules that form near the skin’s surface and usually respond well to topical treatments. Cystic acne, on the other hand, develops much deeper within the skin as painful, pus-filled cysts and nodules that rarely reach the surface. Because cystic acne causes far more intense inflammation, it carries a much higher risk of permanent scarring than milder forms of acne. While blackheads and whiteheads often clear with consistent use of over-the-counter exfoliants and cleansers, cystic acne usually requires oral medications, cortisone injections, or other treatments from a board-certified dermatologist, such as Dr. Green, to resolve safely.

Is cystic acne caused by hormones or bacteria?

Cystic acne typically develops from a combination of hormonal and bacterial factors. Androgens, a class of hormones that includes testosterone, regulate the skin’s oil glands. When androgens surge — whether due to puberty, the menstrual cycle, pregnancy, or menopause — the glands overproduce sebum, leading to clogged pores that create an ideal environment for bacteria to multiply and trigger inflammation. Hormonal cystic acne in adults often appears along the jawline, though it can also affect the back, chest, and shoulders. During your consultation, Dr. Green will review your medical and family history and may order lab work to help pinpoint the hormonal and bacterial factors behind your breakouts.

Does diet affect cystic acne?

Diet can influence cystic acne in some patients. High-glycemic foods, such as white bread, sugary drinks, and processed snacks, can trigger hormonal changes that increase oil production and lead to more breakouts. Dairy products, particularly skim milk, have also been linked to acne in certain people. While diet is not the sole cause of cystic acne, reducing sugar intake and eating more whole, nutrient-rich foods may help support clearer skin alongside a proper skincare routine and guidance from a board-certified dermatologist.

How long does it take to clear cystic acne?

Cystic acne tends to take longer to clear than other types of acne because the lesions form deep beneath the skin and trigger significant inflammation. Left untreated, a single cyst can take weeks to months to resolve, and it’s common for new lesions to form before older ones fully heal. With prescription medications such as oral antibiotics, spironolactone, or isotretinoin, along with in-office treatments like cortisone injections, most patients see significant improvement within a few months. The exact timeline depends on the severity of your acne and how consistently you follow the treatment plan. Dr. Green will set realistic expectations for your specific case during your consultation.

Can cystic acne be cured permanently?

There is no guaranteed permanent cure for cystic acne because genetics, hormonal changes, and oil production can continue to trigger breakouts over time. However, most patients can achieve long-term clearance with the right combination of oral and topical medications, in-office procedures, and a consistent skincare routine that includes non-comedogenic products and daily sunscreen. For patients with hormonally driven cystic acne, medications such as spironolactone or oral contraceptives can offer lasting control. Working with a board-certified dermatologist, such as Dr. Green, gives patients the best chance at sustained, long-term results.

How do you get rid of cystic acne fast?

While cystic acne cannot be eliminated overnight, an in-office visit with a board-certified dermatologist is the fastest way to reduce the pain of a cyst. Acne surgery combined with a cortisone injection can shrink a cyst and reduce inflammation within a day or two, offering much faster relief than topical treatments alone. For ongoing prevention, Dr. Green typically pairs these in-office treatments with oral medications and a personalized skincare routine to keep future cystic acne breakouts under control.

Is cystic acne treatable without Accutane?

Yes, many patients successfully manage cystic acne without isotretinoin. Oral antibiotics, spironolactone, and oral contraceptives can effectively control hormonal and bacterial cystic acne, especially when combined with topical medications and in-office treatments such as cortisone injections and chemical peels. Isotretinoin is typically reserved for the most severe or treatment-resistant nodular acne. Dr. Green will assess the severity of your cystic acne to determine whether a non-Accutane treatment plan can achieve your desired results.

Is Accutane the best treatment for cystic acne?

Accutane, or oral isotretinoin, is considered one of the most effective treatments for severe cystic acne, particularly in cases that have not responded to oral antibiotics or other prescription medications. It is a vitamin A derivative that shrinks oil glands, reduces sebum production, and increases skin cell turnover. Roughly 95 percent of patients experience permanent clearance after a single course. However, Accutane isn’t necessarily the best option for every patient, as it requires strict monitoring, including monthly blood tests, and carries the risk of serious side effects and birth defects if taken during pregnancy. Dr. Green will determine whether Accutane or an alternative treatment combination is the best fit for your skin.

What antibiotics treat cystic acne?

Oral antibiotics such as doxycycline and tetracycline are commonly prescribed to treat inflammatory acne, including cystic acne, by reducing acne-causing bacteria on the skin’s surface. These medications are often used alongside topical treatments and a consistent skincare routine because antibiotics alone typically cannot fully resolve deep cystic lesions. Patients taking oral antibiotics are generally advised to take a probiotic to support gut health and to maintain strict sun protection, since some antibiotics increase sensitivity to sunlight. Dr. Green will determine the appropriate antibiotic and dosage based on the severity of your cystic acne.

Can spironolactone help with cystic acne?

Spironolactone (Aldactone) is an oral medication that helps treat hormonal cystic acne in women by blocking the effects of androgens, the hormones responsible for excess oil production. It’s especially effective for women with jawline or chin acne, as well as those with polycystic ovary syndrome, since both conditions are often linked to elevated androgen levels. Because spironolactone isn’t appropriate for men, Dr. Green will confirm that your acne is hormonally driven before recommending it as part of your treatment plan.

Can hormonal birth control treat cystic acne?

Yes, certain birth control pills can help regulate hormones that fluctuate throughout a woman’s menstrual cycle and reduce hormonal cystic acne flare-ups. Effective oral contraceptives for acne contain both estrogen and progestin, and FDA-approved options include Yaz, Ortho Tri-Cyclen, and Estrostep. While birth control pills can be an effective long-term option for hormonal acne, possible side effects include weight gain, nausea, mood swings, and an increased risk of blood clots. Dr. Green will review your full medical history before recommending this treatment.

Do cortisone shots help cystic acne?

Cortisone injections, also called corticosteroid injections, are one of the fastest ways to reduce a painful cystic acne lesion. During this in-office procedure, Dr. Green injects a small amount of corticosteroid directly into the cyst to calm inflammation and shrink it within a day or two, which also helps lower the risk of scarring. While cortisone shots are highly effective for treating an active cyst, they don’t prevent new lesions from forming, so most patients still need oral medications or a topical skincare routine to control future breakouts.

What over-the-counter products help with cystic acne?

While cystic acne generally requires prescription medications, certain over-the-counter products can complement a dermatologist-guided treatment plan. Gentle exfoliants and cleansers with salicylic acid or benzoyl peroxide help clear clogged pores and reduce excess oil, while non-comedogenic moisturizers protect the skin barrier without triggering new breakouts. Because cystic acne forms deep beneath the skin, over-the-counter products alone typically cannot resolve active cysts or nodules. Dr. Green recommends combining a proper skincare routine with prescription medications and in-office treatments for optimal results.

Is benzoyl peroxide effective for cystic acne?

Benzoyl peroxide can be a helpful part of a cystic acne skincare routine because it reduces inflammation and kills acne-causing bacteria on the skin’s surface. It’s especially useful for managing inflammatory acne lesions, such as cysts and nodules, compared with blackheads and whiteheads, and is available in many over-the-counter cleansers and spot treatments. However, benzoyl peroxide cannot penetrate deeply enough to fully clear cystic acne on its own, so Dr. Green typically incorporates it alongside oral medications and other topical treatments for a more complete result.

Does salicylic acid work on cystic acne?

Salicylic acid is an effective ingredient for treating cystic acne. As a beta-hydroxy acid, it breaks down excess oil and dead skin cells at a molecular level, helping clear clogged pores and gently exfoliate the skin. Salicylic acid also helps reduce sebum production and speeds up cell turnover, which can help prevent new breakouts. While it’s a valuable addition to a skincare routine, salicylic acid cannot fully treat active cystic lesions on its own, so Dr. Green will recommend it alongside oral medications or in-office procedures when needed.

Will pimple patches work on cystic acne?

A pimple patch is a hydrocolloid bandage that covers an inflammatory acne lesion, drawing out excess sebum and oil clogged in the pores. Hydrocolloid bandages help dry out surface-level pimples and pustules, and many pimple patches include additional acne-fighting ingredients to help reduce breakouts. While a pimple patch can effectively extract the contents of an acne lesion on the skin’s surface, it is not effective for treating cystic acne that forms deep beneath the skin. Applying a hydrocolloid bandage to a cyst may help shrink the lesion; however, it is unlikely to eliminate a cyst. Consulting a board-certified dermatologist, such as Dr. Green, is the best way to manage cystic acne and prevent scarring.

Will steroid cream help cystic acne?

Steroid creams, such as hydrocortisone, can effectively reduce inflammation and redness associated with cystic lesions and may also relieve pain caused by the cysts. However, topical creams are often ineffective for cystic acne because they don’t penetrate deeply enough into the skin, where the cysts form. To treat cystic acne, Dr. Green may inject corticosteroids directly into the cysts to reduce their size, decrease inflammation, and lower the risk of scarring.

Will Ibuprofen help cystic acne?

Over-the-counter pain relievers, such as Advil and Ibuprofen, can help ease tenderness and discomfort associated with cysts but do not directly treat them. Ibuprofen has anti-inflammatory properties that reduce swelling and relieve pain caused by cyst pressure. These pain relievers are not intended for topical use and should never be applied directly to a pimple. Instead, schedule an appointment with a board-certified dermatologist, such as Dr. Green, who can accurately diagnose and treat your cystic acne.

Why am I getting cystic acne all of a sudden on my back?

Sudden cystic breakouts on the back can result from factors such as hormonal changes, genetics, and lifestyle choices. Back acne often occurs when sweat, oil, and dead skin cells become trapped under clothing, a condition sometimes called acne mechanica. Tight-fitting clothes and backpacks can increase friction and heat, clog pores, and cause inflamed cysts. Hormonal shifts during puberty, stress, or menstrual cycles can also increase oil production, worsening breakouts. Additionally, pore-clogging skincare or hair products that rub against the back can trigger flare-ups. Maintaining good hygiene, showering after sweating, using non-comedogenic products, and wearing looser, breathable clothing can help prevent future outbreaks. However, severe or persistent cystic acne may require professional treatment.

How to treat cystic acne while pregnant

It is common for women to experience cystic acne breakouts during pregnancy due to increased hormone levels, including androgens. These hormones can affect sebum production in the skin, leading to excess oil, clogged pores, and cystic acne lesions. It is crucial to exercise caution when using skincare products and medications during pregnancy to protect both the mother and the developing fetus. Medications such as retinoids and antibiotics can cause birth defects and should be avoided during pregnancy. Additionally, Accutane should not be prescribed during pregnancy, as it can cause severe congenital defects in the fetus. If you choose to breastfeed, many of these same medications should still be avoided because their effects can pass to your infant. It is essential to consult with your obstetrician or dermatologist before starting any topical or oral medications to ensure they are safe for both you and your baby.

Schedule Your Cystic Acne Treatment Consultation Today

Cystic acne can be painful, cause scarring, and lead to real feelings of self-consciousness. Unlike whiteheads and blackheads, these deep, inflammatory cysts and nodules typically do not respond to over-the-counter topical treatments. If left untreated, they can lead to permanent scars and lasting skin damage. Rather than trying various products with little success, schedule a consultation with a board-certified dermatologist like Dr. Green, who will build a personalized cystic acne treatment plan based on your skin type, hormonal profile, and the severity of your breakouts.

Dr. Michele Green is a well-renowned, board-certified dermatologist in NYC with over 25 years of experience helping patients worldwide achieve clear, healthy skin. She is repeatedly recognized as one of New York’s top dermatologists by Castle Connolly, Super Doctors, New York Magazine, and The New York Times for her dedication and expertise. Dr. Green takes a holistic approach to cystic acne treatment, personalizing each patient’s plan with oral medications, topical treatments, and in-office procedures tailored to their individual needs and goals. To learn more about treating cystic acne with Dr. Green, please contact us online today or call our dermatology office based in New York City at 212-535-3088.