Introduction
Acnes and pimples are some of the common skin problems faced by many teenagers and adults alike. While some types of pimples disappear on their own, others can be very stubborn, leading to scars, especially cystic pimples.
Cystic pimples are more painful than regular pimples and form deep below the skin’s surface, making it difficult to extract them. Notably, cystic pimples are also larger and develop on the face, neck, chest, or back, leaving pitted scars when not handled appropriately.
This article explores how to get rid of cystic pimples using a variety of home remedies, over-the-counter treatments, prescription medications, and diet and lifestyle changes to prevent future acne breakouts. Here’s everything you need to know!
Understanding Cystic Pimples
Cystic pimples are severe cases of acne that appear deep below the skin’s surface as pus-filled lumps. Though the exact cause of cystic acne is unknown, it’s thought to be triggered by factors such as hormonal imbalances, genetics, and poor hygiene.
Unlike regular pimples, cystic pimples are more painful, swollen, and larger, making them challenging to treat. Another thing to note is that cystic acne doesn’t surface, making it difficult to extract them. Therefore, much care and patience are necessary when attempting to get rid of cystic pimples.
Causes of Cystic Pimples
Some of the common causes of cystic pimples include:
- Hormonal imbalances
- Genetic predispositions
- Stress
- Poor diet and unhealthy food choices
- Excessive use of cosmetic products
- Medications that affect the skin’s natural balance
Difference Between Cystic Pimples and Other Types of Acne
While cystic acne may look and feel different from other types of acne, some factors differentiate them. For instance:
- Cystic acne appears as swollen red lumps that are usually larger than other types of pimples
- Cystic acne affects deep layers of the skin, making it more painful and challenging to treat
- Cystic acne causes pus-filled lumps that are often visible but don’t come to the surface
- Cystic acne can cause long-term, pitted scars when not handled appropriately
Home Remedies for Cystic Pimples
There are several natural remedies you can use to treat cystic pimples. These remedies help to alleviate the pain, inflammation, and redness caused by cystic acne.
Tea Tree Oil
Tea tree oil is an effective natural remedy to treat cystic pimples. It possesses anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties that help to reduce inflammation and kill acne-causing bacteria.
To use tea tree oil, mix it with a carrier oil such as coconut or jojoba oil, and apply it to the affected area. Do this at least twice a day until the pimple disappears completely.
Clay Masks
Clay masks, especially those containing bentonite clay, are used to treat cystic acne. The clay absorbs excess oil and impurities from the skin, making it less prone to breakouts. It also helps to soothe inflammation, reducing the cystic acne’s appearance.
To use a clay mask, mix the clay with water or apple cider vinegar, then apply it over the affected area. Leave it on for 15-20 minutes, then rinse with lukewarm water. Use the clay mask once or twice a week for optimal results.
Aloe Vera
Aloe vera contains anti-inflammatory properties that help to soothe inflammation and redness caused by cystic acne. It also helps to reduce the size of the pimple and the risk of infection.
To use aloe vera, apply it directly on the affected area or mix it with a carrier oil. Leave it on for 15-20 minutes, then rinse with lukewarm water. Do this at least twice a day for optimal results.
Over-the-counter Treatments for Cystic Pimples
Over-the-counter treatments are often more potent than natural remedies, and they contain active ingredients that work to reduce inflammation and remove pimples.
Explanation of Benzoyl Peroxide and Salicylic Acid
Benzoyl peroxide and salicylic acid are commonly used over-the-counter treatments for cystic acne because of their effectiveness. Benzoyl peroxide helps to kill acne-causing bacteria, while salicylic acid helps to unclog clogged pores. These two ingredients work together to reduce inflammation and remove the acne-causing factors from the skin.
Application and Usage Instructions
To use benzoyl peroxide or salicylic acid, apply a small amount over the affected area and leave it on for a few hours, then rinse with lukewarm water. Use the treatment at least once a day until the pimple disappears completely. However, avoid overusing them as they can cause dryness and irritation.
Diet and Lifestyle Changes
In addition to using remedies and over-the-counter treatments, making lifestyle and diet changes can also help to prevent cystic acne breakouts. Here are some of the changes you can make:
Dietary Changes to Prevent Cystic Pimples
Reduce your intake of sugary and fatty foods. Instead, eat a well-balanced diet that’s rich in vitamins and minerals. Focus on eating more fruits, vegetables, and lean proteins such as chicken, turkey, and fish.
Hygiene Tips to Prevent Cystic Pimples
Practice good hygiene habits such as washing your face twice a day, removing makeup before sleeping, and using non-comedogenic skincare and cosmetic products. Also, avoid touching your face, especially with dirty hands as this can increase the risk of infection or inflammation.
Sleep Habits to Prevent Cystic Pimples
Get enough sleep and avoid staying up late as this can affect your hormones, which can trigger acne breakouts. Also, replace your pillowcases and bedsheets regularly to avoid bacterial buildup that can cause acne.
Prescription Medications for Cystic Pimples
Prescription medications are reserved for severe cases of cystic acne that don’t respond to home remedies and over-the-counter treatments. The most common prescription medications used to treat cystic acne include retinoids, hormonal treatments, and antibiotics.
Explanation of Retinoids, Hormonal Treatments, and Antibiotics
Retinoids are topical or oral medications that contain vitamin A. They work by reducing the production of oil and unclogging pores, making them less prone to acne breakouts. Hormonal treatments such as birth control pills and spironolactone help to regulate hormone levels that trigger acne breakouts. Antibiotics, on the other hand, work by killing acne-causing bacteria, reducing inflammation and redness.
Application and Usage Instructions
Retinoids, hormonal treatments, and antibiotics are prescribed by dermatologists, and their usage instructions vary depending on the type of medication prescribed. Follow your dermatologists’ instructions carefully to achieve optimal results.
Prevention of Scarring
Preventing scars caused by cystic acne requires patience, consistency, and the right products. Here are some tips for preventing cystic acne scars:
Explanation of How to Prevent Scarring Caused by Cystic Acne
Never pick or squeeze cystic pimples, as doing so can increase the risk of scarring. Instead, use spot treatments, ointments, or creams to reduce the pimples’ size and inflammation.
Safe and Effective Methods for Fading Acne Scars
Use products that contain Vitamin C, kojic acid, retinoids, and glycolic acid to lighten acne scars. Also, consider micro-needling, chemical peels, and laser resurfacing treatments to fade deep scars.
Conclusion
Getting rid of cystic pimples requires patience, consistency, and a multi-faceted approach. You can try natural remedies, over-the-counter treatments, and prescriptions for severe cystic acne, in addition to diet and lifestyle changes to prevent future breakouts. Always consult your dermatologist for the best solution for your skin.
Final Tips and Advice for Readers
- Practice good hygiene habits daily
- Try natural remedies first before using over-the-counter treatments
- Consult with a dermatologist for severe or persistent cystic acne
- Be gentle to your skin, let it rest and recover
Encouragement for Readers to Take Action and Try the Methods Discussed in the Article
Don’t let cystic acne control your life. Try out the various remedies, treatments, and changes discussed in this article to get rid of cystic pimples once and for all. With patience and consistency, you can attain a clear, smooth, and healthy complexion.
