Should You Pop Cystic Acne

Under no circumstance should you pop cystic acne. Doing so could cause the infection to spread elsewhere and lead to more cysts. Additionally, squeezing a cyst means you have to get deep underneath the skin, which could lead to scarring. It's best to leave cyst removal to the professionals.

Cystic acne—the most serious type of acne

Cystic acne is the result of an inflammation deep within the skin. Other types of acne are fairly superficial. Blackheads and whiteheads only affect the surface of your pores. But with cystic acne, the bump goes deeper into the skin. This is why these cysts tend to be painfully sensitive.

Anyone can develop cystic acne. It's common around the mouth and chin although it's also known to affect the chest, back, upper arms, and shoulders. People within the following demographics seem to be more likely to have this particular form of acne:

• Parents had cystic acne

• Going through hormonal fluctuations

• Male

Cystic acne tends to be painful and itchy. But it's not advised to try to pop it on your own. You need to talk to your dermatologist about retinoids and oral antibiotics to help the inflammation go down safely.

Here's how to tell if it's regular acne or cystic acne

Your dermatologist should be able to diagnose what skin condition you have. But in general, there are some simple ways to tell if you have regular or cystic acne.

Regular Acne

• Pimples with pus

• Whiteheads or blackheads

• Red bumps

Cystic Acne

• Itchiness around the affected area

• Larger, red bumps

• Tender cysts

What causes cystic acne?

Dermatologists still aren't entirely sure what exactly causes cystic acne. However, judging from the causes of regular acne, there are some ideas that hold some credibility.

• Hormonal changes - Teenagers are more likely to have acne because their bodies are going through puberty. These fluctuations can result in acne. This is also why pregnant women and people taking certain medications also tend to have inflammation.

• Genetics - There is a tendency for cystic acne to run in families. But it's possible that family members maintain other habits that contribute to acne.

• Certain skin products - Acne in any form is a result of of pores on the skin getting clogged. Some skin products may not work well depending on whether you have naturally dry or oily skin. Over time, it can result in breakouts.

Never pop a cyst—this causes more harm than good!

Popping a cyst can end up causing more health problems down the line. It may be itchy and painful, but you need to leave it to the professionals.

Bursting a cyst can result in the inflammation spreading to other body parts. It could even result in more cysts forming elsewhere. The site where you popped the cyst could even form an infection called an abscess. Ultimately, these are more health problems than you need, so talk to a dermatologist about other treatments.

Other things you should never do when you have acne

Acne isn't fun. But certain actions you think help actually make the condition so much worse.

• Touching your pimples - Your hands contain all kinds of bacteria and debris you're unaware of. When you touch your face, you transfer those contaminants to your pores, clogging them.

• Forgetting to wash off makeup - When it's time for bed, you want to wash off anything you put on your face earlier in the day. Makeup and sunscreen can clog your pores even more.

• Washing too often - While it's a good idea to wash your face every so often, you don't want to overdo it. You could end up drying your skin out too much, which makes it flaky and red.

Does cystic acne ever come to a head?

Regular pimples may go away on their own. But since cysts take hold deeper in the skin, they don't usually come to a head naturally. While there are things you can do to bring cystic acne to a head, it doesn't always work. The only thing that could work is dermatological treatment.

You need to speak with a licensed physician to get the prescription treatment you need. Retinoids and benzoyl peroxide are much more recommended than picking and squeezing at your acne bumps.

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!!