The Best Ways To Treat Cysctic Acne

Cystic acne is the most serious form of acne, and if not treated, may lead to scarring and disfigurement of the skin. It can be a very frustrating and embarrassing medical condition, and may even lead to depression, anxiety and social isolation. Cystic acne can be difficult to treat, and therefore should be treated with medications prescribed by your dermatologist as soon as possible to reduce the risk of scarring.

Topical Antibiotics

Topical antibiotics are considered first-line treatment for all types of acne, according to "Clinical Dermatology." Topical antibiotics kill Propionibacterium acne, a type of bacteria found in your pores that is associated with acne. It is typically combined with other acne medications such as topical retinoids and oral antibiotics for patients with cystic acne. Types of topical antibiotics include benzoyl peroxide, erythromycin, clindamycin, sulfur-sulfacetamide and azelaic acid. Antibiotic combinations of benzoyl peroxide and erythromycin or clindamycin may also be used, and are more effective than either antibiotic used alone.

Topical Retinoids

Topical retinoids are a form of vitamin A and are also considered first-line treatment for all types of acne, according to "Clinical Dermatology." Topical retinoids act both as comedolytics to unclog pores and as anticomedogenics to prevent pores from becoming clogged, thus preventing the formation of whiteheads and blackheads that can lead to inflammatory acne. Examples of topical retinoids include tretinoin, tazarotene and adapalene.

Oral Antibiotics

Oral antibiotics are usually required to get cystic acne under control. Oral antibiotics kill Propionibacterium acnes and also have an anti-inflammatory effect. Types include tetracycline, doxycycline, minocycline and erythromycin. Antibiotic resistance can occur over time, in which case your dermatologist may to switch you to another type of antibiotic or treatment.

Oral Contraceptives

Oral contraceptives may be used in women whose acne does not improve on oral antibiotics. According to the American Academy of Dermatology, oral contraceptives work by decreasing the amount of sebum produced by sebaceous glands in the skin. Oral contraceptives approved by the FDA for the treatment of acne include Ortho Tri-Cyclen, Yaz and Estrostep, reports "Clinical Dermatology." Oral contraceptives are associated with an increased risk for blood clots and should not be used in women that are 35 years of age or older or have risk factors for blood clots such as smoking or cardiovascular disease.

Isotretinoin

Isotretinoin, formerly known as Accutane, is a form of vitamin A that is used to treat severe cystic acne. It should be used only as a last resort when other medications have failed. Isotretinoin works by reducing the production of sebum, inhibiting the growth of Propionibacterium acnes, unclogging pores and reducing inflammation. Isotretinoin is the most aggressive form of acne treatment available, and most individuals require only one course, according to the American Academy of Dermatology. Relapses may occur in some individuals with very severe acne, and most commonly occur within 18 months after the cessation of therapy. Isotretinoin is tightly regulated by the FDA due to the risk for serious side effects including birth defects, elevated liver enzymes, elevated trigylcerides and depression. The most common side effects are dry lips and skin, joint pain, dry nose, nosebleeds, dry mouth, rash and thinning of the hair.

Intralesional Corticoteroid Injections

Large, painful cysts may be treated by injecting a diluted corticosteroid such as Kenalog directly into the cyst. The cyst typically disappears within three to five days.