There are two types of categories for acne, severe and mild. Some examples of mild acne are pustules, whiteheads and blackheads. For severe acne there are also a few different types, cystic acne is the one that we are going to take a closer look at in this article.

Because of its severity, cystic acne is the worst form of acne. Its consequences are more serious than other types of acne. This is due to the fact that the infection penetrates deeply within the skin layers and can cause very large and painful nodules. Another name for this is acne vulgaris. Acne cysts or acne nodules, are formed when sebum cannot properly outflow to the surface of the skin and causes lesions to the cells lining the walls of the sebum canals. The inflammation of the area is a defense mechanism developed by the body to attack infections. When there are a lot of bacteria, the immune system reacts more powerfully; this often results in a larger size pimple, better known as an acne cyst.

When the body reacts in this way, the outflow of sebum starts. Sebum in large amounts is harmful since the risk of a larger bacterial attack increases. The area gets so aggravated by the chemicals issued by the breakdown of sebum that the pimple may grow to be as large as five millimeters in diameter due to inflammation and a surplus of bacteria and oil.

Understanding Cystic Acne

Retention keratosis is another factor that can make facial cysts more severe. This happens when the skin cells, particularly those lining the hair follicle are shed improperly. Also, dead and damaged cells become an easy target for bacterial infections. The bacteria may then pass over to other areas which causes acne cysts to worsen.

Hormones can also be a factor in nodulocystic acne. Testosterone and androgen hormones can help to increase sebum levels. If the sebum ducts are not clear for the outflow to reach the surface of the skin swiftly, they become clogged and cysts are formed. Acne can be directly related to genetic and lifestyle of the person who suffers from it. Stress behavior can contribute to or even increase acne.

Acne cysts take a lot of time to heal since the infection is deep seated however there are acne treatments for cysts. Many dermatologists prescribe a drug called Accutane, and is one taken in the form of a tablet. Its function is to shrink the oil glands which will lower the acne infections. Acne may be cleared with this product however some people who have taken Accutane experienced depression as a side effect. This treatment should be considered the last option due to the important risks involved.

There are treatments such as cortisone injections that are normally administered by a dermatologist to cure cystic acne. They are extremely effective, painless and instantly reduce redness and inflammation. Consequently, the pimple is reduced and thus becomes less visible. It is possible that after undergoing this procedure the skin may show temporary discoloration and bleeding over the area treated.

It may be difficult to cure cystic acne however it is not a lost cause. This type of acne requires a special acne skin care treatment since some could worsen the condition. Nowadays the market offers several natural options to treat cystic acne.