Treating Cystic Acne

Cystic acne refers to small yet painful bumps caused by clogged pores of over-productive oil glands. Under normal conditions, the skin's oil glands produce oil that moisturizes the skin and helps hair follicles to easily grow out of the skin surface. Yet, in some individuals, the oil glands produce too much oil that finally blocks the ducts. Then bacteria gets into this congested duct and results in an infection. Cystic acne seems common among teenagers but the condition is also experienced by some middle-aged people.

Although a lot have been said about over-the-counter medications not working well in treating cystic acne, there are still ways to help clear out the condition and ease the worries of the suffering individual. Health professionals usually prescribe isotretinoin, a twice-a-day oral medication taken in the course of 15 to 20 weeks. This drug acts on cystic acne by remarkably causing the oil glands to shrink, therefore lowering the amount of oil produced by the glands so that bacteria growth will likewise be lowered. However, isotretinoin is known to have unfavorable outcome, among which are having dry eyes and lips.

Individuals with cystic acne should look into something that eliminates the bacteria that causes the infection. Also, by preventing the recurrence of new infections by keeping the skin thoroughly clean. Moreover, treating cystic acne may possibly come in the form of a single or a combination of medication, or could possibly be in the form of a skin care regimen that should be strictly followed.