Essential Oils Cystic Acne

Due to its severity, cystic acne requires strong prescription treatments. However, you can get some relief and help expedite the healing process by using certain essential oils. Tea tree, lavender, and rose oil seem to have the greatest impact on cystic acne.

Cystic acne—the most severe form of acne you can have

Cystic acne is the most severe form of acne. It occurs when pores on the skin become clogged, which leads to inflammation and infection. Unlike regular acne that only affects the surface of the skin, cystic acne forms deeper down. It can develop close to nerve endings, which is why it can be painful.

Some demographics have a higher likelihood of suffering from cystic acne. Teenagers going through puberty and pregnant women face a greater risk due to fluctuations in their hormone levels.

What causes cystic acne?

Dermatologists still aren't entirely sure what causes cystic acne. However, looking at what seems to cause regular acne, there are a few underlying factors dermatologists are fairly confident in.

• Hormone changes - When your hormones go out of control, your skin becomes more susceptible to blemishes. Going through puberty, becoming pregnant, and taking certain medications can heighten your chances of getting cystic acne.

• Greasy lotions and cleansers - Acne is the result of your skin's pores getting clogged. Various factors can cause this, but you need to be mindful of what facial cleansers you use. If you already have oily skin and you use a lotion high in oils, then you increase your chances of a breakout.

• Genetics - Some people are simply more prone to getting cystic acne due to their genes. Your parents having it greatly increases your own personal susceptibility.

Essential oils and cystic acne—do they work?

The only way to get rid of cystic acne is through a prescription-strength treatments. However, lifestyle changes and other home remedies can help relieve symptoms in the meantime. In particular, essential oils help speed up the healing process, and there are 3 specific ones you should use.

1. Tea Tree Oil

Tea tree oil contains anti-inflammatory properties. It delves deep into the skin to kill bacteria and dry out pimples to help them vanish. You only want to apply a small amount to the acne site because it can be strong. You also want to apply a moisturizer afterward to prevent your skin from drying out too much.

2. Lavender Oil

Lavender oil has antimicrobial ingredients to help soothe painful cysts. It's recommended to use this essential oil right before bed. It's a natural sedative, so it helps combat insomnia to get you to sleep faster. When you get a good night's rest, your body is better equipped to deal with future breakouts.

3. Rose Oil

Rose essential oil fends off many types of bacteria, including Staphylococcus and E. coli. It also hydrates your skin and minimizes the impact of any scarring. You should combine it with a carrier oil, such as sweet almond or jojoba oil, before putting it on your skin.

Tips to prevent your cystic acne from worsening

Cystic acne is already severe. You should follow these tips to prevent it from getting any worse.

• Wash your face - A good rule of thumb is to wash your face before going to bed. It helps remove oils and dirts that could end up clogging your pores. You can complement this with a cleanser or moisturizer suitable for your skin type.

• Wear sunscreen - Excessive exposure to the sun can worsen any acne. Limit your time outdoors, particularly during the summer. And if you do go outside, make sure to use a sunscreen with a suitable SPF for your skin.

• Don't pop any pimples - It's tempting to try to pick at or pop cystic acne. It does tend to get itchy. But popping a cystic pimple can lead to scarring. It can also cause the infection to spread, which is why you only want to treat cystic acne with a prescription option.

Best prescription-strength options to treat your cystic acne

While cystic acne is the most severe type of acne you can have, the good news is that you won't have to live with it forever. There's a wide range of treatment options that (when combined with stronger oral antibiotics) have shown to combat those pesky red bumps for good.

• Benzoyl Peroxide: Typically a main ingredient in many acne facial cleansers and lotions, benzoyl peroxide goes into your pores to lift and remove excess oil, dirt and debris (acne-causing agents).

• Oral Contraceptives: For many women, cystic acne is linked to hormonal fluctuations. Using birth control pills has shown to help reduce acne.

• Retinoids: One of the most successful acne treatments, retinoids expertly diminish sebum (excess oil), dirt, bacteria, and any other acne-causing agents on your skin's surface to prevent future breakouts. This powerful drug has also been proven to stop acne scars from forming, leaving behind only smooth, radiant skin.

Treat your acne fast! Get a prescription retinoid, today!

We understand how annoying and bothersome acne breakouts can be. Whether it's picture day at school, or you've got a job interview, acne is not a welcome friend. Fortunately, it's a treatable condition. Our licensed physicians make it easy and more comfortable to have a discussion about your skin and the best treatment options available for you.

Talk to one of our reputable online physicians to get your prescription Retinoid, today!