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Cystic acne, also referred to as nodular acne, cystic pimples, or inflammatory acne, is a severe form of acne that forms deep beneath the skin, trapping pus and preventing it from surfacing. Since the infection lies deep within the skin and close to nerve endings, this type of acne is often very painful. Cystic acne can leave scars, especially if you attempt to squeeze or pop it despite the absence of a visible head. If you suffer from cystic acne, you can explore various treatment methods to make it disappear without causing pain or leaving significant damage to your skin.
Steps
Treating Cystic Acne
Use topical medications. Topical treatments are an excellent option for managing cystic acne. You can apply antibiotic creams with anti-inflammatory properties or acne creams containing salicylic acid or benzoyl peroxide.
- You may also use a facial cleanser with salicylic acid or benzoyl peroxide, as these ingredients help reduce swelling and eliminate acne-causing bacteria.
- You can also try spot treatments for targeted care.
- Always follow the instructions when using topical antibiotics and acne creams.
Apply a warm compress. Using warm or hot water to compress cystic acne can help bring the pimple to a head faster, making it easier to treat and heal. Soak a washcloth or cotton pad in warm or hot water, then apply it to the pimple for a few minutes.
- You can repeat this method three times a day until the pimple comes to a head.
Use an ice pack. Ice is highly effective for painful cystic acne. It helps reduce the throbbing sensation under the skin and decreases redness and swelling. You can use an ice pack, ice cubes from the freezer, or even a bag of frozen vegetables. Apply the ice to the pimple for about 10 minutes. This method can be repeated multiple times a day.
- Remember to place a cloth between the ice and your skin to prevent damage.
Consult a dermatologist. If your cystic acne is deep, persistent, or doesn’t come to a head, it’s best to see a dermatologist. They can recommend treatments to eliminate the acne and prevent scarring. You should also visit a dermatologist if home remedies aren’t effective or if the pimples are extremely painful.
- Inform the dermatologist about the treatments you’ve already tried.
- Prescription medications and dermatological treatments are often very effective for cystic acne.
Treating Cystic Acne with Natural Methods
Use tea tree oil. Tea tree oil is a popular and effective natural remedy for acne. It has anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties, which help reduce swelling and combat acne-causing bacteria.
- To use tea tree oil, mix 1 drop of the oil with 9 drops of water. Alternatively, you can dilute it with another oil, such as olive oil, mineral oil, or aloe vera gel. Dip a cotton pad or ball into the mixture, apply it to the pimple, leave it on for 10 minutes, and then rinse with warm water. Repeat this up to three times a day.
- Avoid applying tea tree oil near the eyes to prevent irritation.
- Perform a patch test before using tea tree oil. Apply a drop to your wrist and wait 15 minutes. If no irritation occurs, it’s safe to use on your acne.
Apply a hot tea compress. Tea is highly effective in treating cystic acne. Both green and black tea contain tannins, which have anti-inflammatory properties. When combined with a warm compress, tea helps reduce swelling and inflammation caused by acne.
- Steep a green or black tea bag in warm water, then remove the bag and place it directly on the pimple. The tea acts as an astringent, helping to draw out the impurities.
Use honey to treat acne. Honey is a popular home remedy for cystic acne. With its antimicrobial and antibacterial properties, honey helps prevent bacteria from clogging pores. Additionally, it nourishes and repairs the skin. Apply honey directly to the pimple, leave it on for 20 minutes, and then rinse with warm water.
- You can also try a honey and apple mask. Apples are beneficial for treating cystic acne due to their malic acid content, which helps tighten the skin. Start by blending a peeled apple into a puree, then mix it with honey to create a paste. Apply the mask to the acne, leave it on for 20 minutes, and rinse thoroughly.
Treat acne with milk. Milk is a natural beauty product often used in traditional and home remedies. It contains alpha hydroxy acids, which exfoliate the skin and unclog pores. Milk helps treat cystic acne by removing the outer layer of blockage, allowing the pimple to come to a head faster and making it easier to extract.
- Soak a cotton pad in milk and apply it directly to the pimple. Leave it on for at least 20 minutes, then rinse with warm water.
- Repeat this process 3 to 4 times a day.
Use aloe vera for acne. Aloe vera is an excellent choice for those with sensitive skin suffering from cystic acne. Its antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties help reduce redness and swelling caused by acne. You can use fresh aloe vera gel or store-bought versions.
- Apply aloe vera to the pimple and leave it on for about 20 minutes. Use this method no more than three times a day.
Apply apple cider vinegar toner. Apple cider vinegar has antibacterial and antiseptic properties, making it effective in fighting acne-causing bacteria and bringing pimples to a head. Use a cotton pad to apply it directly to the affected area.
- If you have sensitive skin, dilute the apple cider vinegar with water in a 1:4 ratio before applying it to the pimple.
Cleansing the Skin
Wash your face twice a day. Maintaining clean facial hygiene is the best way to prevent cystic acne. Wash your face and the affected areas twice daily. Additionally, shower every day to remove dirt and excess oil from your entire body.
- Always wash your face after activities that cause excessive sweating.
- Avoid touching your face to prevent the spread of bacteria.
Use a gentle cleanser. If you struggle with cystic acne, opt for mild cleansers derived from plant-based oils. When selecting a cleanser, ensure it is labeled “non-comedogenic,” meaning it won’t clog pores or cause acne.
- Examples of non-comedogenic cleansers include Neutrogena, Cetaphil, and Olay. Many reputable brands and generic products also fall under this category. Always check the product label to confirm.
- Choose alcohol-free skincare products, as alcohol can irritate the skin and cause damage.
Wash your face with your hands instead of a cloth. Use your fingertips to cleanse your face. Washcloths and sponges can irritate the skin, potentially leading to further skin issues. Gently massage your face with the cleanser using circular motions.
- Avoid scrubbing your face, as harsh scrubbing can cause scarring.
Warnings
- Avoid squeezing or pressing on cystic acne to force it to come to a head faster.
- Do not use toothpaste to treat acne, as it can cause skin irritation.
