Cystic Acne Treatment in Chattanooga

What is Cystic Acne?

Cystic acne is the most severe type of acne that causes painful, pus-filled pimples to form deep under the skin. Typical acne occurs when oil and dead skin cells clog skin pores, but with cystic acne the bacteria also gets into the pores. This can cause swelling or inflammation.

The board-certified dermatologists at Uderm offer consultations to determine the cystic acne treatment option that best fits your goals. If you would like to learn more about the treatment options available, please call (423) 206-2777 to schedule a consultation at our dermatology clinic near Chattanooga, TN. You can also schedule your consultation through our secure online form. Our dermatologists provide care for patients located in Harrison, Collegedale, Ooltewah, and Tyner.

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What Causes Cystic Acne?

Although acne is very common, cystic acne is less common. The main factors behind cystic acne are the hormonal changes in puberty, but it can also occur in older individuals.

During puberty, your hormone levels increase dramatically, which causes an increase in sebum production, or the oily substance that helps protect the hair follicles and skin. An overproduction of this can lead to clogged pores. Cystic acne is most often seen on the face, but can affect other areas of the body as well.

Myths About Acne

There are numerous myths about the causes of acne, which can lead to confusion and embarrassment. It is best to seek help from your provider to determine the underlying cause of your cystic acne.

Acne is often affected by:

• Hormonal changes related to the menstrual cycle, pregnancy, birth control, or the use of hormone therapy
• Stress
• Repetitive touching of your face
• Greasy cosmetics, cleansers, lotions
• Unclean clothing, bedding, or cell phone use
• High levels of humidity and sweating
• Genetics, as some people are naturally more susceptible
• Some drugs and chemicals, for example, corticosteroids, lithium, phenytoin, and isoniazid, which may worsen or cause eruptions that are similar to acne

Acne, including cystic acne, is not caused by:

• Chocolate, nuts, or greasy foods
• Most other dietary choices
• Poor hygiene or inadequate face washing
• Masturbation or sex

Is it Possible to Treat Cystic Acne?

Yes, you can treat cystic acne with the help of your provider. It is best to get help instead of trying to wait them out. The acne can affect large areas of your skin and possibly leave scars.

A dermatologist can help you with a treatment plan. You may use medications to help prevent cysts and scarring.

What is the Treatment for Cystic Acne?

Due to the severity of cystic acne, you will need to consult with a provider for treatment options.

Lifestyle changes

Because cystic acne can be severe and aggravated by certain lifestyle factors, talk to your provider about simple ways you can help improve your acne. Because cystic acne is more severe, these suggestions will not cure your acne but may help in a small way.

• Drinking more water
• Getting adequate sleep
• Washing or exfoliating your face regularly
• Being selective about your makeup and skin care products
• Managing stress
• Avoid picking skin or overdoing face treatments

Medical help

For cystic acne, many over-the-counter (OTC) treatments for acne aren’t strong enough. This means you’ll need to see a dermatologist for prescription medications. Depending on the type of treatment used, you may not see full results for up to eight weeks.

Medical solutions include:

• Isotretinoin (Accutane) – is a powerful prescription medication, is considered the most effective treatment measure for cystic acne. It’s derived from a powerful form of vitamin A, taken in tablet form every day.
• Oral Antibiotics – these work by decreasing bacteria and inflammation that could be contributing to cystic acne formation.
• Topical retinoids – are derived from vitamin A but with less strength than isotretinoin. These work by unplugging hair follicles to remove and prevent severe acne.
• Spironolactone (Aldactone) – this medication can work by managing excess androgen levels that could be contributing to inflammatory acne usually along the jawline.
• Oral contraceptives – this method is especially effective if you tend to develop acne cysts during hormone fluctuations related to your menstrual cycle.

Don’t Pick

An important part of treating cystic acne and avoiding scarring is to avoid picking. Because cysts are below the skin, it is difficult to pick or pop cysts. Picking at this type of acne can also spread infections. Talk to your dermatologist about treatments for avoiding scarring like lasers, peels, or resurfacing.

How Can I Get Help for Cystic Acne?

If you are frustrated with cystic acne or concerned about scarring, give us a call. Our providers are highly trained to set you up with a treatment plan. Don’t waste time waiting for things to clear up. Cystic acne is a very serious condition that can not only affect you physically, but emotionally and socially as well.

We can help give you the relief you need.