When pimples form deep under the skin, this is a cause of concern. What the American Academy of Dermatology (AAD) classifies as "severe acne" may be comprised of large, solid bumps or painful pus-filled pockets beneath the skin's surface. Severe acne can cause extensive scarring if managed haphazardly, so it is prudent to handle your skin with care.
Step 1
Do not touch them. The National Institutes of Health (NIH) stresses that deep cysts and nodules should not be picked at, squeezed or rubbed. Use good self-care by gently cleaning your face with a mild cleanser once or twice daily and after physical exertion. Do not touch pimples with your hands or fingers and refrain from putting greasy creams and lotions on your face.
Step 2
Disregard the myth that acne should be left alone to run its course. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) points out that acne can be a severe emotional stressor. Pimples that form under the skin can be disfiguring and painful. But, as these often cause the most profound scarring, it is important to address them sooner rather than later. Although the AAD indicates that there are several medical treatments to reduce acne scars, these are considered cosmetic procedures and are not covered by health insurance.
Step 3
Schedule an appointment with a medical professional. The AAD notes that mild cases of acne may be resolved by using over-the-counter (OTC) topical treatments. However, pimples that form under the skin--the severest form of acne--always requires more aggressive methods of treatment from a dermatologist, a doctor who specializes in skin conditions.
Step 4
Get the details on treatment options. The AAD lists various methods of treating severe acne that may be appropriate for your specific skin condition. One method of preventing scarring is an in-office procedure in which a diluted corticosteroid is injected into the nodule or cyst to dissolve it. Another way to address deep pimples individually is surgical drainage and extraction. However, the AAD indicates that the treatment that yields the best results is a 16- to 20-week regimen of oral isotretinoin. Although effective, this medication can cause severe side-effects and is administered with caution to females of child-bearing age.
Step 5
Follow the treatment plan your dermatologist recommends--and have patience. The AAD notes that when it comes to treating any type of pimples, there is no miracle cure that will make them go away overnight. All acne types can be effectively treated once the right treatment method is determined, the AAD assures. However, deep cystic and nodular acne may require years to effectively resolve, as patients often experience treatment failure.
Tips and Warnings
- Isotretinoin used to be synonymous with its patented brand name, Accutane. According to the Bloomberg website, Roche Holding pulled the medication from the U.S. market in July 2009, as Accutane purportedly faced too much competition from generic competitors. If you are a woman of child-bearing age who opts to take isotretinoin, you will be required to sign up for iPLEDGE, a pregnancy risk program administered by the FDA.
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