Cystic Acne: Causes, Treatments, and What Actually Works

Cystic acne is a deeper, more intense type of inflammatory acne that causes large, sore bumps under your skin. These breakouts are often tough to treat with basic skincare alone. They can last for weeks and may leave acne and acne scars if you don’t manage them properly.

This guide breaks down what cystic acne is, what causes of acne are involved, and available cystic acne treatments that actually work. You’ll also find expert tips for handling flare-ups at home and learn about professional treatments available at Catara Med Spa, or when to see a dermatologist for support.

What is Cystic Acne?

Cystic acne forms when your pores become clogged with oil, dead skin, and bacteria. This leads to deep inflammation that causes red, swollen, and painful bumps. These breakouts don’t always have a whitehead and usually show up on your lower face, jawline, neck, back, and shoulders.

Because they run deep, cystic acne takes longer to heal and is more likely to leave dark marks or acne and acne scars. That’s why finding the right cystic acne treatment early on is key. Cystic acne is considered a severe cystic form of acne vulgaris and often presents as nodular and cystic lesions, which can be more resistant to standard treatments.

Causes of Cystic Acne

Understanding what leads to acne like cystic acne can help you choose the best treatment. Common triggers include:

Hormonal Changes

Hormones can trigger excess oil production in your skin, especially during puberty, your menstrual cycle, pregnancy, or if you have conditions like PCOS. This often results in hormonal acne, which can become cystic in nature.

Genetics

If your family members had cystic acne, you might be more likely to deal with it too. Some people are genetically prone to producing more oil and dead skin cells, which can lead to clogged pores and acne.

Stress

When you’re stressed, your body makes more cortisol. This hormone can lead to more oil and clogged pores, which may lead to acne.

Skincare Products

Using products that are too harsh or that clog pores can make your acne breakout worse. Choose gentle, non-comedogenic options. A dermatologist can help you identify ingredients that may be worsening your skin.

Diet

Some people notice more breakouts when they eat a lot of dairy or sugar. A healthy diet may help reduce acne flare-ups.

Different Types of Acne

Knowing what type of acne you have can help you treat it more effectively:

• Whiteheads: Closed, clogged pores.
• Blackheads: Open pores filled with oil and dirt.
• Papules: Small red bumps without pus.
• Pustules: Pimples with a white center.
• Nodules: ard lumps deep under your skin, known as nodular acne.
• Cysts: Large, painful, pus-filled bumps under the surface, also referred to as acne cyst or severe cystic acne.

Cysts are the most severe kind and need more than just basic treatments.

Cystic Acne Treatment

There are several ways you can treat cystic acne, depending on the cause and how severe it is. Cystic acne often requires a multi-step approach. Here’s a breakdown of the most effective cystic acne treatment options:

Topical and Oral Treatments

Retinoids

These vitamin A-based creams help your skin renew itself faster and keep pores clear. You might use adapalene or tretinoin. Stronger types may need a prescription. Retinoids are a common treatment option for both milder forms of acne and more persistent breakouts.

Benzoyl Peroxide and Salicylic Acid

These two ingredients can help clear up breakouts. Benzoyl peroxide kills bacteria, and salicylic acid helps unclog pores. You can often find them in over-the-counter acne products like cleansers and spot treatments. These are often recommended to treat mild acne or to support other therapies in an acne treatment plan.

Antibiotics

If your acne is more severe, your doctor may prescribe oral medication such as doxycycline or minocycline. These reduce inflammation and fight bacteria. They’re usually combined with a topical treatment to enhance the effects of acne medications.

Hormonal Therapies

If your breakouts are linked to your menstrual cycle or hormone levels, birth control pills or spironolactone can help regulate oil production. This is a targeted treatment option especially helpful for hormonal flare-ups that result in acne.

Isotretinoin (Accutane)

This potent medication treats moderate to severe acne that doesn’t improve with other treatment options available for acne. It reduces oil gland size and helps prevent new breakouts. You’ll need to be monitored by a doctor while using it, but it can be one of the most effective treatments for cystic acne.

Professional Cystic Acne Treatments

If you’ve tried home care and prescriptions but your skin still isn’t clear, professional treatments can make a big difference. At Catara Med Spa, we offer effective acne clinic treatments designed to target stubborn acne and improve your skin’s overall health.

Many clients also explore the benefits of acne facial services to deeply cleanse pores, calm breakouts, and support long-term skin clarity.

Chemical Peels

Chemical peels use safe acids to remove dead skin, clean out pores, and reduce dark spots left by acne. Peels can smooth your skin and help prevent future breakouts. They’re often included as part of a professional acne treatment plan.

Laser and Light Therapy

Laser therapy can reduce acne scars and redness. LED light treatments (especially blue and red light) kill acne bacteria and calm inflammation, making them ideal for sensitive skin.

Microneedling with PRP

Microneedling uses tiny needles to boost your skin’s natural healing. When combined with platelet-rich plasma (PRP), it can improve skin texture, reduce scars, and help your skin look smoother. This is an effective treatment option for acne scars and uneven tone.

Cortisone Injections

If you have a large, painful cyst, a cortisone shot can shrink it in 1–2 days. It’s a great option if you need fast relief.

Hydrafacial with Acne Protocols

Hydrafacials clean out pores while hydrating your skin. Special serums designed for acne can reduce oil buildup and calm inflamed skin.

At Catara Med Spa, we’ll help you create a personalized acne treatment plan that fits your skin’s needs.

Cystic Acne Treatment at Home

You can support your skin with simple, gentle care every day. Here’s how:

Keep It Simple

• Wash your face twice a day with a gentle cleanser.
• Don’t scrub or over-cleanse.
• Use oil-free, non-comedogenic products.

Use Spot Treatments

Apply benzoyl peroxide, sulfur, or clay treatments to problem areas. These ingredients help reduce swelling and draw out impurities.

Eat a Balanced Diet

Focus on fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins. Drinking plenty of water and cutting back on sugar and dairy might help.

Reduce Stress

Try activities like walking, meditation, or deep breathing to keep stress levels in check.

Avoid Picking

As tempting as it is, picking can make acne worse and cause scars. Let breakouts heal on their own or get help from a professional.

FAQs

How do you get rid of cystic acne fast?

Cortisone shots can reduce swelling quickly, often within 24–48 hours. For long-term results, stick to a consistent skincare routine and consider expert help.

Is cystic acne hormonal or bacterial?

It’s often caused by hormones, especially in teens and adult women. But bacteria and inflammation also play a role.

How do you pop a cystic pimple with no head?

You shouldn’t try to pop it. These bumps are deep under your skin and can get worse if you mess with them. It’s best to let a skincare expert handle it.

Tired of Painful Breakouts? Discover a Real Solution for Clear, Confident Skin

Cystic acne doesn’t just affect your skin—it impacts your confidence, your mood, and your daily life. When nothing seems to work and the breakouts keep coming back, it can feel overwhelming.

Our expert team offers effective, science-backed solutions that help reduce breakouts, calm inflammation, and improve scarring. We focus on results that go more than skin deep.

For your skin at home or ready to try advanced options, Catara Med Spa has the experience and treatments to help you feel more confident in your skin. Call or chat with us for your free consultation.