Cystic Acne On Back

Cystic acne on your back is serious, but treatable. Often, your doctor recommends a course of medical and hygienic intervention, which can clear your skin within 3-6 months. Treating this condition early is often recommended to help prevent scarring.

Cystic acne—the most serious type of acne

Cystic acne is a very serious form of acne that develops when cysts form underneath your skin, causing large, inflamed, pus-filled nodules. This type of acne is sore to the touch, and growths often last longer than regular acne.

What causes cystic acne?

The sebaceous glands found within your skin secrete sebum, the oil that clogs your pores. If you have an excess of this oil, or it's not cleaned, it causes breakouts. This boils down to:

• Hormones. Your battle with acne could be partly genetic. During certain life stages, like your teenage years, your hormones can cause breakouts, particularly if accompanied by poor skin hygiene.

• Hygiene. Wash carefully, but don't over-wash. Using dermatologically-approved products helps prevent build-ups in your pores that cause acne. But over-washing can strip your skin of beneficial oils and bacteria. It's a delicate balance.

Cystic acne is incredibly common on your back—here's why

There is no singular reason why cysts form. However, it's thought that localized acne here is exacerbated by the hygienic issues associated with cleaning your back. (It's hard to reach!) Additionally, several areas of your face, including your chin, cheeks, and forehead are prone to cystic breakouts due to the fact that more sebaceous glands are present here.

What does cystic acne look like?

Though cystic acne is serious, it's not hard to spot. Here are a few differences between cystic and regular acne:

Regular Acne

• Regular acne is smaller and less conspicuous

• It usually heals within 1-2 weeks

• Consists of whiteheads, blackheads, and papules

Cystic Acne

• Is typically red and inflamed with cysts deep within the skin

• Is sore to the touch

• This type of acne is accompanied by excessive pus

Resist the urge to pop a cyst on your back!

You should never pop a cyst on your back or anywhere else! The inflammation you're seeing is a sign of the healing process. If you pop your cyst, you're leaving your wound exposed to external hazards, such as bacteria that could cause infection.

Tips to prevent your back cystic acne from worsening

There are a few changes you can make to manage the cystic acne on your back.

• Shower after sweat-intensive activities. This includes working out, walking, or going to the beach. Showering helps keep the bacteria from building up, preventing breakouts.

• Use noncomedogenic sunscreen. That big, scary word basically means sunscreen that won't clog your pores!

• Avoid getting too much sun. Sun damaged skin is particularly vulnerable to developing cysts. This has to do with the oils produced in the healing process and a sudden influx of dead skin cells.

Here's the best ways 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!