Cystic acne is a stubborn skin problem, but with the right treatment and regular care, you can treat cystic acne effectively and safely.
Cystic acne, or better known as cystic acne, is a type of acne that is more severe and difficult to treat than regular acne. These pimples usually appear as large, hard, and painful bumps, which often appear on the face, back, or chest.
Unlike regular acne, which only involves clogged pores, cystic acne forms when the skin pores become deeply infected, causing more severe inflammation and sometimes leaving permanent scars.
The main cause of cystic acne is the buildup of oil, dead skin cells, and bacteria that clog the pores. As bacteria multiply in the clogged pores, the inflammation deepens, and large, painful bumps appear on the surface of the skin.
Treating Cystic Acne requires the right approach and more intensive treatment than regular acne. This article will discuss how to treat cystic acne effectively, both through home remedies and medical treatments.
Understand the Causes of Cystic Acne
Before looking for solutions, it is important to understand the causes of cystic acne. Here are some factors that can cause cystic acne:
1. Excess Oil Production
One of the main causes of cystic acne is excess oil production (sebum) in the skin. When the sebaceous glands produce too much oil, it can clog pores, creating the perfect environment for bacteria to thrive.
2. Hormon
Hormonal changes, such as those that occur during puberty, menstruation, pregnancy, or use of birth control pills, can trigger increased oil production in the skin.
Hormones such as androgens can enlarge the sebaceous glands and increase sebum production, which ultimately leads to cystic acne.
3. Genetics
Genetic factors may also play a significant role in the development of cystic acne. If your parents or siblings have a history of cystic acne, you may be at greater risk of developing it.
4. Improper Use of Skin Care Products
Some skin care products that contain harsh or comedogenic ingredients can worsen cystic acne. Products that clog pores or make skin oilier can worsen cystic acne.
5. Stres
Stress can affect hormone levels in the body, which in turn can worsen skin conditions and increase the likelihood of developing cystic acne.
How to Treat Cystic Acne Naturally
In addition to medical treatments, there are some natural ways you can try to deal with cystic acne. Although they cannot provide instant results, these natural treatments can help reduce inflammation and prevent cystic acne from getting worse.
1. Using Honey
Honey is known to have antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties that can help reduce inflammation and kill acne-causing bacteria.
You can apply pure honey to the area affected by cystic acne and leave it for 15-20 minutes before rinsing it off with warm water. Regular use of honey can help speed up the healing process.
2. Green Tea
Green tea contains antioxidants that can help reduce inflammation and fight acne-causing bacteria. You can apply cooled green tea bags to your skin or use green tea extract in skin care products. Consuming green tea can also help cleanse the body from within.
3. Aloe Vera
Aloe vera has healing and soothing properties that can help reduce inflammation caused by cystic acne. You can apply fresh aloe vera gel to your cystic acne and leave it on for a few hours before rinsing it off. Aloe vera can also help speed up the healing process of wounds and reduce acne scars.
4. Tea Tree Oil
Tea tree oil has antibacterial properties that can help fight the bacteria that cause cystic acne. Apply tea tree oil that has been diluted with a carrier oil (such as coconut oil) to the cystic acne using a cotton ball. Do this treatment twice a day for maximum results.
5. Clay Mask
Masks made from clay can help absorb excess oil on the skin and open clogged pores. Clay masks also help reduce inflammation, making them suitable for treating cystic acne. Use a clay mask once a week to help prevent cystic acne from appearing.
Medical Treatment for Cystic Acne
If natural treatments do not provide the desired results, or if cystic acne worsens, then medical treatment is the right choice. Here are some medical treatment options that can help with cystic acne:
1. Topical Medication (Cream or Ointment)
Topical medications such as retinoids or benzoyl peroxide can help treat cystic acne by reducing excess oil production and reducing inflammation.
Retinoids work by increasing skin cell turnover and preventing clogged pores. Meanwhile, benzoyl peroxide helps kill acne-causing bacteria.
2. Antibiotics
If cystic acne is caused by a bacterial infection, your doctor may prescribe oral or topical antibiotics to help kill the acne-causing bacteria and reduce inflammation. Some commonly used antibiotics include tetracycline, doxycycline, or minocycline.
3. Light Therapy
Light therapy, which uses blue or red light, can help reduce inflammation and kill the bacteria that cause cystic acne.
This therapy can be performed in a beauty or dermatology clinic, and is generally recommended for patients who experience cystic acne that does not respond to topical treatments.
4. Isotretinoin
Isotretinoin, often known by the brand name Accutane, is an oral medication that is very effective in treating severe cystic acne.
Isotretinoin works by reducing the size of the sebaceous glands, thereby reducing the production of oil in the skin. Although very effective, this drug has quite severe side effects and is only prescribed by doctors for very severe cases of cystic acne.
5. Hormone Treatment
For women, cystic acne can be affected by hormonal fluctuations, such as those that occur during menstruation or pregnancy.
In these cases, hormonal treatments, such as birth control pills or anti- androgen medications, can help balance hormone levels and reduce cystic acne symptoms.
Treatment to Prevent Cystic Acne Recurrence
Once your cystic acne has been treated, the next step is to prevent it from coming back. Here are some tips that can help keep your skin clear and acne-free:
1. Wash your face regularly
Wash your face twice a day with a gentle, oil-free facial soap. Avoid rubbing your face too hard as it can irritate the skin and make acne worse.
2. Use Non-Comedogenic Products
Choose skincare and cosmetic products that do not clog pores (non-comedogenic). Products that contain light and oil-free ingredients will help prevent clogged pores.
3. Pay attention to your diet
Foods high in sugar and processed foods can affect hormone levels and trigger acne. Eat foods rich in antioxidants, such as fruits and vegetables, and consume foods containing omega-3 fatty acids to maintain healthy skin.
4. Keep your makeup tools clean
Always make sure that makeup tools, such as brushes and sponges, are clean. Dirty makeup tools can transmit bacteria to the skin and cause cystic acne.
5. Avoid Stress
Stress can increase the production of hormones that can trigger acne. Try doing relaxation techniques such as yoga or meditation to reduce stress.
Cystic acne is a skin condition that can be annoying and requires proper treatment. By understanding the causes and available treatments, you can choose the right method to deal with this problem.
Whether through natural home remedies or medical treatments recommended by your doctor, effective treatment will help you overcome Cystic Acne on Cheeks and achieve healthy, problem-free skin.
Addressing this condition properly can reduce inflammation, prevent scarring, and restore your skin’s natural balance. Do not hesitate to seek medical help if your cystic acne gets worse or does not go away, because the right treatment will bring the best results.