Common acne (acne vulgaris) is a bothersome and, at times, embarrassing skin condition; however, there are more severe forms of acne that can lead to severe, unsightly scarring. Cystic acne is one of the most severe forms of acne. It is very important to seek help for this condition as soon as possible.

Cystic acne results when hair follicles are plugged by dead skin cells or by sebum. The blocked pores can cause the rupture of sebum ducts with the follicles. As a result, the nearby tissue will swell and lead to boil-like lesions.

Cystic acne is characterized by pus filled cysts, which lead to scarring and other complication. In most cases of cystic acne the cyst (also, cystic pimple or cystic zit) can appear similar to an acne nodule, but it will be filled with pus, and the diameter of the cyst is generally at least 5 millimeters across.

The cysts are usually quite painful and can result in severe scars. For those who suffer from cystic acne it is important never to squeeze the acne cyst, because squeezing can lead to infection in the deeper layers of the skin. A deeper infection can lead to more pain, inflammation, scars and a longer healing time.

Cystic Acne Treatment

You should consult a qualified dermatologist if you think you are suffering from this painful form of acne. A good profession will be able to diagnose the situation and prescribed the best form of treatment.

Usually, doctors prescribe antibiotics and cortisones for cystic acne skin care. If cystic acne is recurrent it can lead to nodular acne or nodulocystic acne. Isotretinoin drugs are used to treat these types of acne to impair the production of sebum.

Regrettably, antibiotics have undesirable side effects and cortisones and isotretionoin drugs can have dreaded consequences. There are many over the counter skin products that can treat both common acne and severe types of acne very effectively.

Over-the-Counter Treatments for Cystic Acne

Over the counter treatments are beneficial because they are effective against acne and help you avoid antibiotics, isotretioin and their side effects. Choose over the counter skin care products that have anti-inflammatory effects and restore a healthy moisture balance, as well as controlling the formation of acne bacteria.

These products will allow the skin's natural sebum to flow naturally and not to clog the skin's pores. Remember that the main cause of acne breakouts, pus, cystic acne and ultimately scarring are clogged pores which lead to the accumulation within the hair follicles and the inflammation of the cells lining the sebum canals.