Spotting your first pimple is traumatic enough, so if you have just found out that you are suffering from cystic acne, you should immediately consult a dermatologist. Teenagers often go through that phase where their body develops the intolerable amount of heat and it leads to a major breakout of pimples. While going through the breakout phase may still be a breeze, the real problem arises when that breakout leaves scars that will settle in your skin and make you think twice before every public appearance.
However, the good news is there is a solution to cystic acne scars, and going through this article will help you clear those deep pores and emerge as a more confident being. Now, before we talk about the actions that one can take, we will first explain to you what is cystic acne and the cause for them.
What is Cystic Acne and Their Cause?
If you have just found out that you have developed cystic acne, you need to remain calm and go about the situation in a systematic manner. Cystic acne is uncommon and is often referred to as a severe skin condition. It happens when your skin develops uneven, shallow and deep, pores under the skin, creating swollen but tender bumps that are filled with pus. It results in itching around the region and can even cause pain. If you burst a cyst because of itching, the infection can spread and breakout to other parts of the body.
Most dermatologists credit cystic acne as one of the primary reasons for scarring because of the deep pores and the inflammation. One of the leading causes of the breakout is dry skin, which emerges when pores are plugged with oil and dead skin cells. Here, the bacteria that are trapped in the pores cause swelling, redness and pain. It may also be due to a genetic condition or hormonal changes.
Where Can You Get It?
According to a research by the National Institute of Health (NIH), acne attacks every 8 in 10 people, with age ranging from 11 to 30, however, it is not that everyone will be affected by the same kind. The most common area where cystic acne appears is the face, but any area of your body including the chest, upper arms, shoulders or back can be affected. Some researchers also say that it is more common in men, but it has been said that many women suffer from cysts on the lower half of their face.
What Should Be Your Action Plan for Acne Scar Removal?
Just following these 5 steps, you can be well on your way to acne scar removal in no time:
Step 1: Go see a Dermatologist already!
While home remedies are a fantastic addition to your skin regimen, fighting acne should start with a visit to the dermatologist. A cortisone shot shrinks cysts in record time (within 48 hours). Although it may not work on everyone, in the same manner, it still works.
Step 2: Ice Cubes are your Friends
Take a paper towel and place it over the cyst for 10 minutes, then take it off and place it again after 10 minutes. Continuing this practice for an hour helps constrict the blood vessels, thus decreasing inflammation. However, take care not to burn your face with ice. After this, rinse your face with a cleanser, and make it a habit to apply moisturizer.
Step 3: Exfoliate
Use an exfoliating cleanser, one that contains plant-based agents or lactic acid. This will help clear out the bacteria from the pores and wipe off the layer of dead skin cells to reach the cyst.
Step 4: Stay Clean & Hydrated!
To prevent the infection from spreading, you should use antibacterial ingredients in topical agents to keep the infection from spreading. Products with antibacterial properties, like tea tree, rosemary and thyme help keep your skin clean. Using hyaluronic acid serum helps bind moisture to skin and nourishes beneath the surface of the skin.
Step 5: Stay away from Dairy!
Keeping away from dairy helps reduce the severity of cystic acne. Plenty of studies online or the dermatologist himself has probably already identified a relationship between dairy and inflammation. However, you are free to consume your usual daily products to get your required nutrients, just make sure to keep your dairy intake at a minimum as an excess amount of it will eventually worsen your cystic acne.
Removing your acne scars is possible with enough research and effort, however, just remember that too many chemicals and an excessive amount of products aren’t always a good thing. Take a break from your usual skin routine once in a while to let your skin breathe every now and then.