Signs and Visible Symptoms

Acne Vulgaris is commonly associated with redness of the skin inflammation Papules, Nodules or Cysts. The more commonly affected areas are that of the face neck and chest because of the heightened levels of follicles with over active sebaceous glands. Cystic Acne is a common skin complaint for many teenagers and male and female adults alike. Primarily Cystic Acne is associated with hormonal changes and hereditary factors. The areas of the body commonly affected by Cystic Acne are the face however the neck and back are sometimes affected also especially in men.


Cystic Acne or Modular Acne is painful and easily spread by scratching or picking cysts. The bacteria build up associated with cystic acne raised pus filled pimples are painful and irritating, the damage occurs when the sufferer scratches the pus filled cysts and spreads the infection to other areas of the body under the finger nails. The combination of sebaceous gland filled hair follicle mass combined with dead skin cells and hormonal changes stimulate the bacterial growth that causes Cystic Acne breakouts.


Diagnosis

The discoloration caused by scarring is usually dark and unsightly. This from of acne is better treated by a skin specialist preferably a dermatologist who can subscribe strong medicated treatments or antibiotics. Squeezing the pimples will ease the bacterial infection temporarily until the bacteria build back up again or spread to other areas. The cause of the bacterial infection will have to be treated in order for the infection to ease and disperse. A dermatologist will discourage the patient from touching or spreading the cystic further and permanently scarring the skin.


A professional skin analysis is necessary to determine the severity of the breakout and the correct treatment. External treatment in conjunction with antibiotics will help to irradiate the problem and lessen the chances of a reoccurrence. A one cure for all treatment for cystic acne doesn’t exist as all skin types will differ and what is effective for one might not be effective for another. Cleansing the skin and the build up of bacteria while buffing the skin of the dead skin cells is important however with cystic acne it is important not to break the skin or spread the bacteria further.


A combination of over active sebaceous glands in the hair follicles suppressed by dead skin cells are a breathing ground for bacterial build up. Cystic acne is deeper in the skin tissue than common acne breakouts for this reason the scarring from this form of acne is more unsightly
and permanent. Early treatment for this form of acne is important as the earlier the treatment the less severe the infection and the chances of a reoccurrence is lessened.


The scarring form Cystic acne is commonly called pigmentation scarring, noticeable as red or brown marks where the skin has been bruised by the squeezing or picking of the Cyst or Nodule. Pigmentation scarring will generally fade after a matter of months depending on the severity of the breakout. Hormonal increases during menstruation puberty and the menopause in older women associated with the Resaca group are linked to either pregnancy or polycystic ovary syndrome.


Medication

Diet is sometimes linked to Cystic Acne outbreaks a high gylcemic diet chocolate and foods rich in sugar fat and salt are linked to worsening outbreaks. Benzoyl Peroxide, Salicylic Acid, Azelaic Acid and Alpha Hydroxy are said to help to ease the swelling kill the bacteria, rid the skin of dead skin cells unblocking the pores and limiting the hormonal affects. Hormonal contraception in the form of oestrogen\ and progesterone are said to be effective at reducing the (androgenic) male hormone levels in the body.


Oral Retinoids a derravive of Vitamin A are used to reduce the over secretion of the oily glands and is effective for killing the bacteria that leads to Cystic Acne permanently. The side affects are extremely severe and for that reason a dermatologist’s consultation and supervision is needed. Anti-inflammatories are effective at increasing collagen and keratin while having a soothing affect on the inflammation and reducing the visible signs of (hyper pigmentation) or Cystic Acne scarring by moisturizing and nourishing dry, sore irritated skin.


Procedures

Dermabrasion is a common procedure for removing the scarring from inflammatory acne lesions. Sun damaged reddened or dark skin spots will benefit from the sanding process that buffs the surface areas of the skin to reveal the under levels of the skin that remains un damaged. Microdermabrasion is a gentle buffing of the skin to discard the superficial layers of the dermis to reveal the deeper levels of clean clear skin. Photo light therapy is effective for mild acne.

Smooth beam laser treatment is effective at burning the follicle sac, the sebaceous glands with excess oil and help to encourage oxygen build up to kill the bacteria. Herbal remedies such as Tee Tree Oil, Aloe Vera are effective anti inflammatories and soothing agents for the skin. The kinds of treatments you choose ultimately will depend on your skin type and sensitivity and your budget in terms of alternative therapies. The internet is a good place to start in the search for symptoms, signs, prognosis and treatments for Cystic Acne that is individual to your symptoms.