A careful skin-cleaning regimen is essential to reduce breakouts when you have cystic acne to reduce breakouts. It will also help minimize adverse reactions such as excessive dryness and burning or stinging. An antibacterial soap, which might contain active ingredients such as sulfur, triclocarban or tea tree oil, kills skin-dwelling bacteria known as Propionibacterium acnes. These bacteria become active in clogged pores, giving rise to blackheads, whiteheads, nodules and cysts. Some of these soaps are available over the counter, so you don't need a prescription. Still, a dermatologist should supervise treatment for cystic acne.
Step 1
Start off with a mild, antibacterial soap to minimize skin irritation, which makes acne worse. The package label might indicate "mild," "for sensitive skin" or "fragrance-free." In some cases, it might have the concentration of the active ingredient on the bottle; choose one with a low concentration.
Step 2
Using lukewarm or warm water, lather up the soap and gently apply it to your skin in a circular motion. Do not use hot water or rub your skin vigorously. Leave the soap on for about five minutes to give the active ingredients enough time to work, then rinse your skin thoroughly with lukewarm or cool water.
Step 3
Gently pat your skin dry with a clean face towel. Do not rub your skin dry.
Step 4
Continue washing your skin with the antibacterial soap, even after your acne has cleared up. Improvement in your skin can take six to eight weeks to be noticeable.
Step 5
Do not use an astringent after cleansing with an antibacterial soap, unless your dermatologist has recommended it. It will increase dryness and irritation.
Tips and Warnings
- Wait 5 to 15 minutes before applying a topical acne medication, such as one containing retinoids, azelaic acid or benzoyl peroxide. If you don't notice any improvement with the mild, antibacterial soap, try a soap with a higher concentration of the active ingredient. Apply only non-comedogenic, or oil-free, moisturizers to your skin after cleansing. Wash your skin with an antibacterial soap as soon as possible after sweating or being in a hot environment. Body heat increases oil in your skin, which clogs your pores.
- Do not use an abrasive brush or pad to cleanse your skin. These harsh tools leave your skin raw and irritated, and more susceptible to acne breakouts.
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