Schweiger Dermatology Group

How to Treat Cystic Acne

How to Treat Cystic Acne

Posted in Adult Acne by . | Leave a Comment

how-to-treat-cystic-acneCystic acne must be addressed differently than blackheads or whiteheads on the skin.  Cysts are inflammatory lesions located deeper within the skin; therefore many of the treatments that are effective in treating blackheads and whiteheads do not improve cystic acne in the same way.  Dr. Schweiger explains that, “Cystic acne can be painful and even lead to permanent scarring on the skin.  It is important that cystic acne be treated by a dermatologist; your dermatologist will be able to review all of the options on how to treat cystic acne.”

Treatments for cystic acne include:

  • Oral antibiotics: Antibiotics, such as Minocycline, Solodyn, Doryx, Doxycycline, and Zithromax, are commonly used to treat cystic acne.  They reduce inflammation and kill the acne-causing p. acnes bacteria of the skin.
  • Oral anti-androgens: Many women experience acne that is caused by changes in their levels of androgen hormones.  Spironolactone is an anti-androgen medication that decreases the androgenic influence on the skin, therefore preventing hormonal cysts.
  • Topical antibacterial medications and retinoids: Topical medications are effective at preventing the microcomedone (precursor to acne) from forming, which can help to prevent the eventual development of cystic acne.  They can also kill the p. acnes bacteria on the skin, which lead to the development of acne.
  • Laser and light-based acne treatments: Treatments such as Photodynamic Therapy and Isolaz Acne Therapy treat cystic acne by killing the p. acnes bacteria, and in the case of the Isolaz, also cleaning out excess oil and debris from the pores.
  • Isotretinoin: When other treatments have failed and your acne is moderate-to-severe in nature, isotretinoin (commonly referred to as Accutane) is an effective option to be discussed with your dermatologist.
Custom Clear Kit Questionnaire
×
Everything You Need to Know About Acne!

Fill out the form below to receive your FREE copy of the Clear Clinic Acne Information Guide! Get tips on what causes acne and how to prevent it. Could your diet be causing your break outs? Find out in our comprehensive guide!

×
Everything You Need to Know About Acne Scars!

Fill out the form below to receive your FREE copy of the Clear Clinic Acne Scar Information Guide! Learn about acne scar classifications and how to treat them in our comprehensive guide!

Oops! We could not locate your form.

×
ClearClinic Personal Acne Coach™
×
Custom Clear Kit Questionnaire
×
Custom Clear Kit Questionnaire
×
Custom Clear Kit Questionnaire
×
Custom Clear Kit Questionnaire
×
Custom Clear Kit Questionnaire
×
Virtual Acne Consultation: Questions
×
Virtual Acne Consultation: Questions
×
Enter to Win!

Complete the form for your chance to win a free Clear Kit and a two month membership to Clear Clinic @Home!

×
30 Second Acne Quiz: Your First Step Towards Clear Skin

In order to customize your acne regimen, please answer the questions below:

×
Virtual Acne Consultation: Questions
×
Custom Clear Kit: Questions
×
Questions about our program?

We have a Clear Clinic @Home representative standing by! Complete the form and we will get back to you shortly!

×
Free Initial Consult!

Let us determine your best treatment path!

×
Free Acne Photo Consultation

Setup your free photo consult by completing the form below.

  • Accepted file types: jpg, jpeg, png, gif.
×
Online Acne Scar Photo Consultation

Setup your free photo consult by completing the form below.

  • Accepted file types: jpg, jpeg, png, gif.
×
Free Photo Consultation!


Setup your free initial photo consult by completing the form below.

  • Max. file size: 200 MB.
×
FREE Acne & Acne Scar Guides!


When you’re finished completing the form, you’ll be able to download your FREE Acne Guide, Acne Scar Guide or both!

×
Acne & Acne Scar Treatments at Clear Clinic

Clear Clinic Menu of Services

×
Translate »