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Understanding Cystic Acne
Most people associate the word acne with the idea of pimples or white heads. Sometimes, however, complications can occur, particularly when the condition is rooted deeper in the epidermis. This is the case of cystic acne, much more visible than ordinary pimples and considerably more painful. The causes that lead to cystic acne are basically the same as those that can be blamed for the occurrence of the milder forms. It all has to do with the buildup of sebum inside the skin pores. Things can be worse when dead cells add to the clogging. Heres how that happens. The regenerative processes at the level of our skin cause the cells to be replaced continuously. As new cells are added, dead cells are discarded. When this shedding process doesnt happen properly, dead cells can remain blocked inside skin follicles. Bacteria will soon start gathering in the area, causing all kinds of infections. When the infection affects other follicles, acne becomes visible in the form of inflammation and swelling. We have already mentioned sebum, which is a secretion of the body. It is therefore obvious that other bodily secretions, namely hormones, can also influence the occurrence and seriousness of the cysts. The genetic heritage also plays a role, as does lifestyle, stress and dietary habits being the main factors in this category. Due to the fact that the infection starts from deeper skin layers, cystic acne heal much more slowly than pimples. What's worse, many people find it difficult to keep their hands off the cysts. Squeezing, pricking or rubbing them can damage the skin and even cause permanent scars. In the least serious cases, cystic acne can spread the infection to neighboring follicles. While most mild forms of acne will disappear without much need for us to do anything, cysts and lesions should be cured by medical treatment. Seek a dermatologist's advice regarding the best medication for you. Dermatologists will most likely prescribe something like accutane tablets. Accutane contains isotretinoin, which is credited as one of the top weapons in fighting cystic acne. The treatment normally goes on for about six months. What accutane does is to shrink the sebaceous glands. If there is less sebum, there is less material to clog the skin pores. The drug has a rate of effectiveness around 80%, but unfortunately it may have quite undesirable side effects, such as depression and suicidal thoughts. Pregnant women should avoid it, as it can be deleterious to the child. Other therapies that are becoming increasingly popular are cortisone injection and laser therapy, and even surgery. Cortisone injections have a high rate of effectiveness and, what's more, they are painless and their effect can be noticed almost instantly. The other two kinds are also used for the removal of acne scars.
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