What is Cystic Acne?
Cystic acne is perhaps the most serious of all types of acne. It is commonly known also as nodulocystic acne. Nodulocystic acne is only referred to as Cystic acne if they actually develop cysts. Cystic acne normally covers a widespread area of the skin and is large in appearance. They are easily identified because they appear like nodules under the skin. They are soft and are filled with fluid and appear as small lumps.
Cystic acne, like all acne occurs when there is excessive production of oil from sebaceous glands in the skin, dead skin cells in the follicles and the presence of bacteria. When follicle membrane erupts and the material seeps into the dermis, blemishes in the skin appear. If the wound erupts near the surface of the follicle, then the wound would heal naturally and quickly. However, deeper eruptions are more serious as they tend to cause more lesions. When another follicle membrane breaks and is contaminated it forms a nodule. When a membrane is developed over the infection in the dermis, a cyst develops.
A high degree of bad acne scars is a typical occurrence in cystic acne due to the destruction of skin tissues. The wounds happening deep in the skin also increases the potential of scarring. Physicians warn against popping pimples as this just exacerbates the conditions. Popping can cause the spread of the acne, damage other skin cells and cause scarring in the long run. Cystic acne does not result from a lack of hygiene or through massive intakes of soft drinks and sweets, as some have inaccurately thought. In fact cystic acne is believed to be hereditary in nature.
One of the most common and serious issues surrounding cystic acne is depression. People suffering from cystic acne show signs of low self esteem. Some purposely avoid looking at themselves in mirrors, avoid having their pictures taken, and generally stay at home. There have been some reported cases of suicide resulting from depression as a result of cystic acne.
The treatment of cystic acne is readily available and is not uncommon. The cure however is dependent on the nature, complexity and degree of cystic acne. Treatment is normally undertaken using a systemic approach. Depending on the nature of the acne, physicians can use a variety of treatments. Some of these include the use of antibiotics, contraceptives, anti-lesion and anti-inflammatory injections, and surgery.
Cystic acne can be a serious condition. Nevertheless, it is manageable. People suffering from this type of acne must seek professional help as the treatment requires a comprehensive approach. Some even seek out cosmetic surgery later in life to help with the acne scars. However, the average cosmetic surgery prices on these types of procedures can be very high.
