Usually acne is just annoying and troublesome and at times it can be downright embarrassing.  However, there are some severe forms of acne that may lead to the scarring and pitting of one’s skin.  One of these severe forms of acne is called cystic acne.  It is important that a person seek treatment for this at once.

Cystic acne is so named because pus filled cysts appear and these can lead to scarring, pitting and other serious complications.  In many cases of cystic acne, the cyst appears similar to an acne nodule except that it is filled with pus and measures at least 5 millimeters across.

These cysts can be unsightly, lead to serious scarring and can also be quite painful.  It is very important for those who suffer from this type of acne never to squeeze the acne cyst as this could cause the infection to travel down deeper.  It is better just to leave the cyst alone and let it heal naturally.

If someone thinks they are suffering from cystic acne, then they should be checked out by a dermatologist.  He or she will be able to diagnose what type of acne it is and recommend the most effective treatment.

There are a wide variety of over the counter products that are designed to treat all forms of acne, and some of these products can successfully treat severe forms of acne.  If these do not seem to do the job, then there are prescription medications that can be used in the treatment of cystic acne.  Again, your dermatologist can suggest the appropriate treatment for your particular skin type and kind of acne.

There are some non-preventable causes of cystic acne and they include the following:

• Genetics – If acne tends to run in the family, then a person is more likely to get it.

• Hormones – When a person reaches adolescence, the body begins to produce androgens which in turn stimulate oil production.  This build-up of oil can clog pores which can lead to acne.  Birth control pills and the menstrual cycle can also aggravate acne because they both entail hormonal changes.

Here are some preventable causes of cystic acne:

• Stress – This has not been proven to be a cause of cystic acne.  However, any form of physical and emotional stress can aggravate acne.

• Washing too often or using harsh cleaners – Some people feel that washing more often and keeping the skin cleaner will reduce acne breakouts.  If you treat your skin harshly, it can aggravate breakouts.

• Using oily skin care products and greasy cosmetics – These products can lead to the clogging of pores and oil ducts in the skin, thus leading to acne.

• Medications – There are many medications on the market which lists acne as a possible side effect.  Be sure to check the product literature to see if this is the case.  If it is, then try to choose another medication.

• Squeezing a pimple – Try not to give in to the temptation to squeeze a whitehead or a pimple.  This can lead to bacteria entering the skin which can make acne worse.  Squeezing pimples can also lead to scars and they are permanent.

• Diet – It is not quite clear whether diet can either cause acne or make it worse.  Some people do have sensitivities to certain foods which can cause acne.

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