An Acne Cyst Can Scar Your Skin Permanently

Acne cysts are not something to be ignored. This severe form of acne is one of the leading causes of severe, acne scarring and when left untreated, it can destroy the aesthetics of the skin, while damaging overall skin function. Most people are under the impression or the misconception that acne cysts develop from within the skin, and are the result of similar biological function that can result in cysts below the skin. Fortunately, there’s a silver lining when it comes to acne cysts, and that’s the fact that they are formed in the same manner as all acne, and with a focused effort, they can be prevented from developing in the future.

What Causes an Acne Cyst?

Acne cysts are most often referred to as cystic acne, nodular acne or nodulocystic acne. This acne is of the severe variety, and occurs deeper in the skin than inflammations most commonly referred to as a whiteheads and/or blackheads. Like other acne, acne cysts will develop pustules at the surface of the skin, creating a hard, raised, red bump that is swollen and tender to the touch. The danger of acne cysts lie in the fact that many people try and rid the skin of them like they would a whitehead. They poke, prod, pick and attempt to pop but this only serves to make the issue even worse—even potentially harmful to the skin.

An acne cyst will develop in the same manner as other acne. Dead skin cells combine on the surface of the skin with the P-Acne bacteria. Instead of shedding away from the surface of the skin, they will find their way into a pore and follicle, where they will combine with sebum, or skin oil from the sebaceous gland. This will allow the bacteria to feed, creating a small infection. When this occurs deep within the hair follicle, an acne cyst can develop. Once acne cysts have developed, they tend to linger, and patience truly becomes one of the few treatments.

Treating Acne Cysts and Severe Cystic Acne

When acne cysts become the norm, it is recommended to seek treatment from a dermatologist. Treatment may be as simple as a cycle of an oral medication followed by a quality skin care regimen, but consulting with a professional will aid in treating cystic acne and acne cysts most efficiently.

An acne skin care regimen is also a great way to prevent all forms of acne from becoming chronic and severe. Because all acne forms in the same manner, a quality skin care regimen can consist of a few simple steps to be used once or twice a day and it will make a significant difference in the overall health and complexion of the skin.

An exfoliation helps to rid the skin of the excess skin cells that have died or are dying, and need to be removed from the surface. Fewer dead skin cells means less of a chance to develop an acne cyst, while enjoying better looking skin in the process. Following an exfoliation with a basic toner or astringent will help to constrict the pores from allowing lingering skin cells and bacteria into the follicles.

After applying a toner, the use of an acne treatment product such as benzoyl peroxide will help to fight existing acne, while preventing other acne from forming. Due to its nature, benzoyl peroxide creates an oxidized atmosphere when applied to the skin, killing most of the bacteria responsible for contributing to acne cysts. To combat dryness, a quality moisturizer can be used to complete this regimen.