Cystic acne is a skin condition characterized by painful, subcutaneous cystic formations. This condition is the most severe variant of acne. The clinical picture appears primarily in adolescence, during puberty. Sometimes the disease can also begin at 18 to 20 years of age. What Is Cystic Acne and How Is It Treated?
Causes
Cystic acne is caused by chronic inflammation of the hair follicles and sebaceous glands. Excessive activation of the glands leads to the overproduction of sebum. At the same time, it is keratinized in the sebaceous duct because of the increased level of androgens. The sebum mixed with horny cells accumulates in the follicle, creating a kind of plug that prevents the secretion itself from flowing out. This forms the acne.
Inflammation of closed comedones is manifested by reddened, slightly raised papules, on which pustules may overlap due to the proliferation of bacteria. The spread of the inflammatory process deep into the skin leads to the formation of nodules and cysts. Unlike other forms of acne, the cystic form is characterized by an intensification of the underlying pathogenetic mechanisms of the disease.
Therapy
Cystic acne requires quite a long course of therapy before improvement can be noticed. If you are faced with a similar problem, it makes sense to contact specialists to get timely help. Local treatment includes the use of gels, lotions and solutions based on antiseptics, retinoid-based creams. In some cases, topical antibiotics and azelaic acid are prescribed. Oral antibiotics, isotretinoins, estrogens and antiandrogens can be used. As for treatments to minimize scarring, interventions vary from patient to patient and may be chemical (micropilling) or physical (photodynamic therapy, laser, etc.).
Prevention
Given that the main causes of cystic acne are not known, it is unfortunately impossible to talk about prevention. Nevertheless, some correction of habits, can improve and increase the effectiveness of therapy. You should not resort to treatment on your own. Do not constantly touch the face, as rubbing the rashes promotes their spreading. Do not squeeze black spots. For cleansing the skin, use a gentle and quality detergents. Observe a proper diet, limit fat, fried foods, sweets. Drink plenty of water to keep your skin sufficiently hydrated.
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