Pimples develop when your skin pores get clogged, often with dead cells. At times bacteria may get trapped in the skin pores, causing the spot to become swollen and red.

Cystic acne occurs when an infection goes deep in your skin, causing red, tender bumps that are full of pus. These might itch or hurt. When cyst bursts, an infection could spread, leading to more breakouts.

How Is Cystic Acne Treated?

Over-the-counter medications that work for milder acne will have minimal effects on cystic acne. However, a dermatologist is likely to recommend one of the following treatments options:

• Oral antibiotics to help lower inflammation and control bacteria. Sometimes your acne might not respond to this medication. Or you might notice that the antibiotics don’t work as effectively after some years.
• Birth-control pills work for some people by regulating their hormones.
• Steroid injections into individual cysts may be administered at your doctor’s office.
• Isotretinoin (formally called Accutane but can be found under different brands) combats all acne causes. Talk to your doctor for the recommended dosage. For many people, this medication clears their skins permanently and completely. If cystic acne recurs, you could repeat this treatment and acne scar removal. Note: Women need to avoid falling pregnant while using this drug.
• Prescription-strength lotions, creams, or gels that contain retinoid, a vitamin A variety, may help unplug the pores hence helping antibiotics to work.
• Spironolactone is an effective medication for cystic acne and it also can help you eliminate unneeded water.