Cystic Acne

The top rated board certified dermatologists of Transformative Dermatology  offer a plethora of effective treatments for patients that suffer from symptoms associated with cystic acne. Cystic acne may develop in an individual at any age, though it is commonly associated with teenagers. Our highly trained dermatologists and dedicated staff are committed to providing each patient with individualized treatment that best suits their unique  and circumstances.

What is Cystic Acne?

Any number of factors may contribute to the development of cystic acne, though it is most commonly present in patients with oily skin. Cystic acne is characterized by an under-the-surface build-up of oil, bacteria, and dry skin cells in the pores, ultimately causing cysts to develop under the affected area. 

While cystic acne is considered the most serious form of acne, there are plenty of treatment options available for patients suffering from cystic acne. Cystic acne may gradually go away over time with age, but medical intervention is the quickest and most effective way to eradicate cystic acne. 

Signs / Symptoms of Cystic Acne

Cystic acne may appear on any part of the body and is typically associated with the presence of boil-looking bumps on the skin. A patient may experience any number of the following symptoms on and around the affected area: 

  • Tenderness / pain when touched
  • Redness
  • Large pus-filled cysts
  • Bumps under the skin
  • Acne clusters

Untreated cystic acne may lead to scarring and other permanent results such as: 

  • Widened pores
  • Ice pick scars
  • Uneven indents (often large)

While cystic acne typically presents itself on the face, it is commonly found on the arms, back, chest, and neck as well (some patients report the presence of cystic acne behind the ears and on the shoulders).

Because cystic acne is more severe compared to mild acne, medical intervention is necessary, as over-the-counter products do not possess the necessary clinical-grade strength to fully eradicate cystic acne. 

Cystic Acne Treatment

  • Isotretinoin: This clinical strength prescription medication is taken orally on a daily basis to target cystic acne and stop the overproduction of cystic acne-causing oil. Isotretinoin contains Vitamin A, a vital ingredient to effectively fight aggressive acne. Many patients report clearer skin within 4-6 months of taking this form of cystic acne medication. 
  • Antibiotics: For patients suffering from large areas of cystic acne, antibiotics may be recommended. Antibiotics are employed to reduce the presence of inflammation and bacteria, though this treatment method does not target dead skin cells or overproduced oils on the affected area. Because there is a risk of bacteria resistance, antibiotics should only be prescribed and taken for a short period of time. 
  • Topical Retinoids: The best in class board certified dermatologist at Transformative Dermatology offers topical retinoids for cystic acne treatment. Much like isotretinoin, topical retinoids also contain Vitamin A, though the topical medicine is less strong than the isotretinoin tablet method. Topical retinoids are typically prescribed to clear out clogged pores to eliminate current / future acne. Your top of the line dermatologist may prescribe a topical retinoid to take daily, in the form of cream, gel, or lotion. 
  • Spironolactone: Spironolactone is often used to treat cystic acne by regulating the levels of androgen in the body, which ultimately helps reduce inflammation. Spironolactone is commonly prescribed to women with cystic acne on the lower part of the face / jawline, as the treatment is typically most effective for this particular gender / acne type. 
  • Oral contraceptives: Oral contraceptives are commonly prescribed to women suffering from cystic acne, as it is historically effective in reducing the effects of cystic acne. This treatment method is often prescribed to women who experience more oily / acne-prone skin as a result of hormone changes during the menstrual cycle.

Transformative Dermatology
1909 Mallory Lane
Suite 302
Franklin, TN 37067
(615) 905-4994