Cystic Acne: When Your Pimples Need Medical Attention
Pimples, zits, having a pizza face—whatever you might call it, acne is an annoyance. It's an extremely common annoyance, and most people who experience acne will only need to apply an over-the-counter product while resisting the urge to pop their pimples (which can lead to skin infections such as cellulitis and even scarring). There are some people whose acne requires a more intensive approach, and this is the case for those with cystic acne.
Severe Acne
Cystic acne is one of the most severe forms of acne. In addition to pustules on the skin, there can be sub-dermal pus-filled nodules. As these are beneath the skin, an over-the-counter topical treatment will have little effect. You will in fact need medical assistance, and should make an appointment with a dermatologist.
Medical Solutions
Medical dermatology offers a range of solutions for cystic acne. As the condition is present both beneath your skin and on its surface, this type of acne can lead to facial scarring. The fact that acne has a bacterial component means that severe forms of the condition may warrant oral antibiotics, which your dermatologist can prescribe if needed. Antibiotics are only one weapon in the fight, and cystic acne generally needs to be attacked on multiple fronts.
Gels and Face Washes
You may be prescribed a topical antibiotic gel to apply directly to your face. This is unlikely to be an ongoing requirement, and your dermatologist is likely to transition you to a cleanser with salicylic acid or azelaic acid as its active ingredient. This helps manage bacteria on the surface of your skin while also drying out any pimples that might be forming. These acid face washes also have an exfoliating action, removing dead skin cells before they have the chance to clog your pores and contribute to the formation of pimples.
Large, Problematic Pimples
Any excessively large pimples (either dermal or sub-dermal) noted during your consultations may require individual attention. A corticosteroid injection applied directly to the site can shrink these pimples. Any that fail to respond to treatment might need a different approach, and your dermatologist can make a small incision in your skin to access these growths, which allows them to drain.
Given the need for oral antibiotics, topical antibiotics, corticosteroid injections, acid face washes, incisions, and drainage — it becomes increasingly clear that cystic acne requires more extreme measures than a mere over-the-counter acne product. Don't hesitate to contact a dermatologist to get your cystic acne under control.
For more information on medical dermatology treatment, contact a professional near you.