
Disclaimer: Each patient is unique and individual results may vary.
Acne-prone skin requires more than simply the use of acne-fighting treatments. It might also require lifestyle modifications, the first of which is frequently a new and improved skin care regimen. Keep reading to discover more about your cystic acne, and the dermatology treatments Moksha Dermatology offers our patients in Cincinnati, Ohio.
Cystic acne is an inflammatory disorder that causes deep, subcutaneous acne pimples. These bumps appear as huge lumps on the skin’s surface, and they are frequently uncomfortable and/or unpleasant. This form of acne is distinguishable from more prevalent and recognized forms, such as whiteheads and blackheads, since it appears deeper into the skin. Thus, the cysts never develop a “poppable” head. In addition to the face, cystic acne can also form on the back, chest, shoulders, and upper arms.
This form of acne is most prone to leave scars. Failing to treat the bump may result in more inflammation, which may harm adjacent skin cells, resulting in the formation of a black area. It may take months or years for the black patches to vanish, or they may become permanent. If you feel you have cystic acne, scheduling an appointment with one of our dermatologists in Chesterfield is the most effective method to treat the issue and prevent potentially irreversible damage.
As with most forms of acne, finding the specific reason can be challenging. Typically, these bumps form when the contents of blackheads and/or whiteheads leak into the surrounding skin. This spread is seen by the body as an attack, and the immune system generates pus to combat it, resulting in inflammation.
Acne vulgaris, or the same form of acne that causes whiteheads and blackheads, is the source of cystic acne. Acne vulgaris is triggered by hormonal fluctuations, such as menstruation, and causes oil glands to overproduce. These glands can then swell with excess oil, which hardens to form a cyst. This acne affects the chin and jawline more than any other portion of the body because to the large concentration of oil glands in this region.
Cystic acne, unlike other forms of acne vulgaris, nearly usually requires expert treatment. The active components in over-the-counter treatments, salicylic acid and benzoyl peroxide, simply remove excess sebum and dead skin cells from the skin’s surface. Deep acne is most effectively treated with prescription-strength topical acne medicines, oral antibiotics, and other drugs, such as isotretinoin, although they all require a doctor’s visit. Our Chesterfield facility is equipped to work with you on a treatment plan that matches both your outbreak and lifestyle.
When cystic acne appears on the chin, forehead, nose, back, shoulders, or chest, it affects the skin and underlying tissue. Your body fights to heal the damage as the acne cyst begins to clear up. Cystic acne scars manifest as red, black patches or textured regions on the afflicted skin’s surface.
In order to heal the damage, collagen is produced by the body. A scar will form if your body creates too little or too much collagen throughout this process.
Although some people are more likely to scar than others, the following can all contribute to an increased risk of acne scarring:
Severe, deep acne: Acne scars are more common once the healing process is complete for nodules and larger cystic acne lesions.
Family history of acne scars: Acne and acne scars are typically strongly influenced by genetics.
Lack of acne treatment: As inflammatory acne goes untreated, the risk of scarring increases.
Picking or squeezing acne: Picking at pimples causes skin irritation, which can lead to permanent scarring if done repeatedly.
Prescription Topicals: In severe or persistent acne situations that do not respond to over-the-counter treatments, prescription creams and gels may be utilized. Popular and effective topical therapies for severe acne include retinoids like tretinoin, adapalene, and tazarotene. They are available in a variety of strengths, which are recommended based on the individual’s skin type.
Oral Antibiotics: Acne is treated with an array of oral antibiotics. Long-term usage of antibiotics can lead to antibiotic resistance, hence these therapies are often administered for brief durations, and frequently in conjunction with another treatment.
If you have moderate to severe acne, our dermatologists may recommend a tetracycline (e.g., doxycycline or minocycline) or a macrolide (erythromycin). The medicine can lower inflammation and P. acnes bacteria levels on the skin.
Isotretinoin (Accutane): Isotretinoin is a retinoid administered orally for the treatment and prevention of acne. It is the most potent acne medicine currently available and is normally reserved for the most severe and chronic cases. Several individuals recognize isotretinoin by its brand name Accutane
IPL (intense pulsed light): IPL (intense pulsed light) therapy utilizes light radiation that is dispersed to control acne inflammation. This is a rather moderate treatment that targets both the P. acnes bacteria and your skin’s redness with no downtime and little side effects. IPL may also diminish acne-related discoloration.
AviClear: Unlike topical or oral acne treatments, the AviClear laser can cure moderate to severe acne by eliminating the underlying cause of the condition. The oil glands (sebaceous glands) in the skin are the specific focus of this novel laser technology due to its wavelength.
Over time, cysts fight to repair themselves. A dermatologist is also necessary for preventing scarring, a typical consequence of cystic acne. Moksha Dermatology’s dermatologists in Cincinnati may work with you to identify an effective therapy and then propose further methods to prevent scarring. These can involve treatments such as AviClear, chemical peels, laser therapy, and blue light therapy. If you suffer from cystic acne, contact Moksha Dermatology today to set up an appointment for a customized acne treatment plan.