Cystic pimples are a type of acne that occurs when bacteria infect a blocked oil gland, prompting an army of white blood cells to speed to the infection site. Cysts, characterized as painful, inflamed, pus-filled boils, often are difficult to treat, and severe cases need a dermatologist's attention. While home remedies may reduce pain, swelling and redness associated with cystic pimples, scientific research on their efficacy remains preliminary.
Honey
Honey, an antioxidant, antiseptic and natural cleansing agent, works as a moisturizer and toner to help soothe raw tissue and banish blemishes. When used topically, unpasteurized honey can accelerate healing of external infections, and its antibacterial and antifungal qualities yield particularly valuable results when used to treat cystic acne. Although further scientific research and clinical analysis is necessary, honey combined with the exfoliant properties of aspirin may aid in reducing inflammation associated with cystic pimples, according to Grandma's Home Remedies. Mix a crushed aspirin with enough water to form a paste. Rub it on your pimples as a face scrub for two minutes, and then rinse with cold water. After patting your face dry, dab honey onto your affected areas. Allow it to dry for 20 minutes, wash it off with warm water and splash your face with a final rinse of cold water.
Baking Soda
Baking soda, a natural exfoliant, helps treat cystic pimples by sloughing off dead skin cells that clog pores. Baking soda not only rids the complexion of sticky, oily deposits but also works to soften and rejuvenate the skin. According to AcneTalks.com, when married with sea salt, baking soda can alleviate inflammation associated with cystic pimples. While no clinical research has yet explored whether baking soda reduces symptoms of cystic pimples, it may warrant a try. Mix 2 tsp. baking soda, 1 tsp. sea salt and enough water to form a thin paste. Massage it on your affected areas as a facial scrub. Rinse with cool water.
Tea Tree Oil
Tea tree oil, used for centuries by native Australians, got its name from Captain James Cook. According to the National Center for Biotechnology Information, a 1990 clinical study found that 5 percent tea tree oil gel yields the same benefits as 5 percent benzoyl peroxide, a popular commercial preparation, in the treatment of acne. In fact, fewer side effects were noticed with tea tree oil than with the over-the-counter medication. Additionally, the Mayo Clinic recommends tea tree oil as a safe and effective alternative remedy to treat cystic pimples, noting its efficacy on relieving pain and accelerating healing. While further research is needed to confirm tea tree oil's healing properties, it may warrant a try. Apply a 5 percent dilution of the oil twice daily directly onto your pimples. Do not take it internally. People with allergies to celery or thyme should not use tea tree oil.
References
- Grandma's Home Remedies: Home Remedies for Cystic Acne
- Natural Home Remedies: Health Benefits of Baking Soda
- Acne Talks: Home Remedies for Cystic Acne
- Mayo Clinic: Boils and Carbuncles: Tea Tree Oil
- National Center for Biotechnology Information: A Comparative Study of Tea-tree Oil Versus Benzoyl Peroxide in the Treatment of Acne
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