Are you experiencing a rash of big, painful pimples? Let's talk about Cystic Acne!

Do you get those big, painful, deep pimples on your face? Sometimes they are so painful that you can't even touch them, they look like a lump inside, and they take a long time to heal. These are not like regular acne, and sometimes they even leave scars after they heal. Many people are worried about this condition. So today, let's talk about this severe type of acne, which is cystic acne.

What exactly is Cystic Acne?

Simply put, cystic acne is the most severe form of acne. It is a type of inflammatory acne . Acne usually occurs when the pores in our skin become clogged with oil (sebum) and dead skin cells. But in cystic acne, bacteria also enter these clogged pores.

Imagine, oil from the oil glands under our skin and dead cells collect and clog a pore. Then, when bacteria joins it, our body's immune system starts to fight it. As a result of this fight, the area becomes swollen, red, and painful. Because this process occurs much deeper in the skin, in the dermis , these are larger, more painful, and more likely to cause scarring when they heal.

What is the difference between a cyst and a nodule?

You may have heard of a type of acne called nodular acne. The two are very similar. Both are large, painful bumps that form under the skin. But there is a slight difference.

Although both are serious conditions, it is important for the doctor to be aware of this difference in order to determine treatment options.

Why do we get such bad acne?

It's hard to say exactly what causes cystic acne. It's likely a combination of factors.

• Age: This condition is especially common in teenagers . With hormonal changes occurring during this time, the skin's oil production increases significantly.
• Family history: If your mother, father, or other family member had severe acne, you are at a higher risk of developing it too.
• Hormone changes: In addition to adolescence, hormonal changes that occur during women's monthly menstrual cycles, during pregnancy, and during menopause can affect this. Also, increased stress can cause hormonal imbalances and increase acne.

How do you recognize cystic acne?

This type of acne usually looks like a boil. Check to see if you have these symptoms.

• There is a red, swollen lump under the skin.
• If you touch it, you feel severe pain or sensitivity .
• Some can be as small as a pea, and some can be larger.
• Sometimes, a white-yellowish pus may ooze from the top.
• A crust may form on top as it heals.

These are usually most common on the face, as it has a large number of oil glands. However, in addition to the face, they can also develop in these places:

• Outside
• Butt
• Chest
• Neck
• Shoulders
• Upper arms

How can this be treated? Should I see a doctor?

Yes, definitely. Cystic acne is not something you can cure with a regular cream you can buy from the pharmacy. It can cause scarring, so it's best to see a dermatologist for treatment.

This condition can take 3 months or more to fully heal. Therefore, it is important to be patient with treatment. Your doctor will often prescribe both oral medications and topical creams.

Here are some of the main treatment methods:

Why is it not good to squeeze pimples?

Doing so will only worsen the infection that is deep in the skin. It also increases the risk of permanent scars . In some cases, it can even lead to serious skin infections like cellulitis .

Even after healing, some people may develop dark or brown spots (pigment changes) in those areas. These will gradually fade over time, but can sometimes last for more than a year.

What can we do to prevent this situation?

Although cystic acne cannot be completely prevented, there are several things you can do to reduce and control its severity.

• Keep your face clean: Wash your face twice a day (in the morning and at night before going to bed) and if you sweat, with a mild foaming facial cleanser and lukewarm water. It is better to wash your face gently with your fingertips rather than rubbing your face with cloths or sponges.
• Oil-free products: The moisturizers, makeup, and sunscreens you use should be labeled "noncomedogenic," meaning they won't clog your pores.
• Keep your hands away from your face: Stop touching your face with your hands and picking at your pimples. The bacteria on our hands can transfer to our face.
• Don't sleep with makeup on: No matter how tired you are, be sure to completely remove your makeup before going to bed at night.
• Take care of your hair too: If your hair is oily, keep it clean and avoid letting it touch your face as much as possible.
• Diet: Research has shown that a high glycemic index diet can increase acne in some people. Therefore, it is important to eat a balanced diet that includes plenty of vegetables and fruits.

When should you see a doctor?

If you have these symptoms, see your doctor, especially a dermatologist, without delay.

• If you have swollen, red, painful acne on your skin.
• If your self-confidence is affected by acne or the scars caused by it, or if you are feeling anxious.
• If there are signs of a skin infection (e.g., severe pain, fever).

Cystic acne is a condition that can be both physically and emotionally distressing. So don't delay in seeking treatment. With proper treatment, you can definitely control this condition, prevent scarring, and achieve healthy skin.

Cystic Acne, Acne, Big Acne, Painful Acne, Acne Scars, Skin Diseases, Dermatology, Cystic Acne Sinhala