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How To Get Rid Of Cystic Acne

One of the more severe forms of acne, cystic acne occurs when a normal lesion erupts within the epidermis. Although this type is most commonly seen in teenagers during puberty, it can also occur in either sex at any age. Cystic acne is also frequently painful, and the cysts it produces are unsightly. Individuals afflicted with this type of acne often suffer from severe emotional distress, as well as physical distress, and they can be left with permanent scars. While there is no specific cause of cystic acne, a link to heredity has been determined - in about 81% of cases, genetics can be a contributing factor to the development of acne, even though no specific gene has been isolated.

Home Remedies for Cystic Acne

Although there is more than one answer to the question of how to get rid of cystic acne, there are several home remedies that provide relief, if only temporarily. A paste made of equal parts baking soda, sea salt, and water has been proven to provide topical relief when the face is washed with the mixture, as the sea salt acts as a soothing agent, and the soda provides an astringent property. Another topical application is a two-step mask that consists first of crushed aspirin, for its chemical exfoliation property, followed by honey, both for its natural moisturizing and antibacterial qualities. Aloe Vera juice applied directly to lesions also helps, and a facial rinse made of equal parts of apple cider vinegar and water has also proven to be effective.

Another factor to consider when pondering how to get rid of cystic acne is the level of certain vitamins and minerals. Many individuals have had good luck with increasing their doses of vitamin A, C, B5, and the mineral Zinc. Vitamin C is one of the most important vitamins in skin cell production. Zinc and B5 have been shown to be helpful in some cases to help regulate the skin’s level of oil, and to decrease the production of excess sebum. However, take care when adding extra vitamins and minerals to the diet. While vitamin C is water soluble and easily flushed from the system via perspiration and urination, vitamin A is fat soluble, and excessive amounts of vitamin A can be dangerous. Additionally, taking extra Zinc can also be hazardous if done improperly - the best advice is to seek out a knowledgeable nutritionist, or to see a doctor.

Best Treatment for Cystic Acne

Treatment for cystic acne is most often focused on a 4-step regime of preventing oil-clogged pores, eliminating the bacteria that is at the root of most cases, maintaining hormonal balances, and keeping inflammation in check. As unique body needs vary, so do the treatments. As a result, it may take a bit of trial and error to customize an individual’s plan of treatment. While over-the-counter (OTC) products with sulfur, benzoyl peroxide, and salicylic acid have been helpful up to a point, the best treatment when considering how to get rid of cystic acne has been a powerful, orally-prescribed retinoid. Additionally, to diminish any redness and/or inflammation, orally-administered antibiotics are usually prescribed in tandem with the retinoid, and some dermatologists may also use surgical microdermabrasion, laser treatments or steroid injections.

As with all medications, both OTC and prescription, it is important to remember that side effects may be an issue, and some of them are potentially serious. To this end, it is crucial to read and carefully follow all instructions. Finally, due to the fact that acne itself can be one of several potential side effects of medication, or a symptomatic by-product of a more serious health condition, it is vital to schedule a visit with a physician to make sure that the patient is not suffering from another disease or condition before deciding on a course of treatment for cystic acne.