Cystic acne break-outs can be painful and lead to deep scarring. Some dermatologists consider it to be the most severe kind because topical medications do not get to the root of the problem. It heals extremely slowly because it is so deep that the infection is trapped under the skin. Cystic acne treatment is usually limited to oral medication so all cases should be taken to a dermatologist.
Isotretinoin is the most common, and most potent drug prescribed for cystic acne treatment. It is a man-made form of retinoid (Vitamin A) that is taken in pill form. It is the only prescription that treats excess oil production, clogged skin pores, and inflammation. This pill is taken up to 20 weeks and commonly does not require more than one course of therapy to cure. The most serious side-effect to taking this medication is the possibility of birth defects to a developing fetus. For this reason, women are required to not be pregnant or get pregnant at any time during this treatment. Regular check-ups are scheduled for each patient using this medication to monitor any additional side effects.
Common side effects of using isotretinoin as a cystic acne treatment include: muscle aches, uncomfortable drying of the lips and eyes, depression, and chest pain. Some of these side effects can cause serious health problems in the future. Always contact your doctor if you notice any of these side effects.
Oral contraceptives are used as cystic acne treatment in females. It suppresses overactive sebaceous (oil producing) glands, and is safe to be used long-term. In addition to an oral contraceptive, the doctor may prescribe a synthetic steroid to inhibit other hormones that stimulate the sebaceous glands.
If oral cystic acne treatment does not work, they may require drainage. This is considered acne surgery and should only be performed by a professional, in a sterile environment. If you attempt to squeeze or pick them yourself, the infection may last much longer than it would have. You may cause the infection to worsen and increase the inflammation and swelling.
For dramatically inflamed cysts, a dermatologist may decide to administer an injection with a highly-diluted corticosteroid to bring down the inflammation and increase the speed of healing. It is a generally painless procedure. It usually clears the cyst within a week and prevents rupturing and scarring. However, this is not the first choice of cystic acne treatment by most dermatologist because it only treats current acne.
In addition to the medications your dermatologist prescribes to you, be responsible for the health of your skin. Wash your face at least once a day, especially following exercise or other sweat-inducing activity. Do not wash your skin too often or it could result in drying out. Bursting of cystic acne will most likely result in scars, so avoid this at all costs. Make sure your hands and fingers stay away from your face. Your hands pick up dirt and germs with everything you touch and this coming in contact with your face can increase the chance of infection.
