Cyst Pimple (Acne): Treatment, Causes, and Prevention Tips

What is Cyst Pimple (Acne)?

Cystic acne pimples are pus filled nodules deep seated beneath the skin. Cystic acne is known to be the most severe and painful form of acne. It develops pus-filled cyst deep underneath your skin and can result from a combination of bacteria, oil, and dry skin cells that get trapped in the pores. These factors contribute to an increase in inflammation and occurrence of secondary infections. Anyone can develop cystic acne. However, it tends to occur more frequently in people with oily skin, teens, women, and older adults with hormonal imbalances.

Symptoms of Cyst Pimple:

Although symptoms of cystic acne are variable depending upon the severity of pimples, it usually presents as a red lump that is painful and tender to touch and sometimes has oozing white yellow pus. The cyst size can be as small as a pea or as big as a dime.

Causes of Cyst Pimple (Acne)

• Hormonal changes: Just before your period starts, your estrogen drops, which can trigger your sebaceous glands to secrete more sebum. In puberty stage, androgen levels tend to elevate that may increase in sebum production which can clog the pores and trigger inflammation. 
• Genetic factors: There is research that supports the idea that genetics may have an impact on your chances of developing acne. For example, there are 29 genetic variants that are known to be present in people with acne. Additionally, a family history is linked to acne breakouts in teenagers.
• Diet: Foods with a high sugar or starch load can cause inflammation and activate oil glands, leading to breakouts.
• Stress: It doesn’t directly cause acne. However, studies show stress can trigger inflamed acne to get worse due to the release of inflammatory biomolecules. When you're stressed, your body releases cortisol and androgens, which can increase sebum production.

Cyst Pimple risk factors

Risk factors for acne include:

• Age: Cystic acne is more common among teenagers, compared to older adults.
• Hormonal changes: Such changes are common during puberty or pregnancy.
• Family history: Genetics plays a role in acne. If both of your parents had acne, you're likely to develop it too.
• Greasy or oily substances: Over exposure to greasy and oil substances can irritate the skin that can cause acne.
• Friction or irritation on your skin: This can be caused by items such as telephones, cellphones, helmets, tight collars and backpacks.
• Foundation: Makeup products can block the sebum ducts particularly when staying longer on face.
• Popping or squeezing pimples: Physical manipulation can push bacteria and pus deeper to skin which might cause cystic acne.

Treatments of Cyst Pimple:

Cystic acne is challenging to treat, often requiring a combination of medical treatments and lifestyle changes. Dermatologists typically recommend the following treatments for managing cystic pimples:

1. Antibiotics:

• Oral antibiotics: Reduce bacteria and inflammation internally.
• Topical antibiotics: Creams, gels, solutions, and lotions applied directly to the skin to kill bacteria and reduce inflammation.

2. Cortisone acne shot:

• A corticosteroid injection directly into the cyst to quickly shrink large, painful cysts and reduce inflammation.

3. Incision and draining:

• A minor surgical procedure where a dermatologist makes a small incision to open up the acne cyst and drain the pus, relieving pressure and reducing the risk of scarring.

4. Azelaic acid or salicylic acid:

• Used topically to kill bacteria, reduce inflammation, and get rid of excess dead skin cells, helping to prevent clogged pores.

5. Benzoyl peroxide:

• An over the counter or prescription treatment that reduces the number of bacteria on the skin and helps clear clogged pores.

6. Retinoids:

• Oral retinoids (Isotretinoin): A powerful medication used for severe cystic acne, reducing oil production and preventing the formation of new cysts.
• Topical retinoids (Adapalene, Tretinoin): Applied directly to the skin to promote cell turnover and prevent clogged pores.

7. Hormonal pills:

• Birth control pills: Help balance hormones that can contribute to cystic acne in women.
• Spironolactone: An anti-androgen medication that reduces oil production and is often used for hormonal acne in women.

Also Read: Pimple Scars Treatment

Prevention of Cyst Pimple (Acne)

Preventing cystic acne involves a combination of skincare practices, lifestyle changes, and sometimes medical intervention. Here are some effective strategies to help reduce the risk of developing cystic pimples:

1. Maintain a consistent skincare routine:

• Gentle cleansing: Wash your face twice daily with a mild, non-comedogenic cleanser to remove excess oil, dirt, and bacteria without irritating the skin.
• Exfoliation: Use a gentle exfoliant containing salicylic acid or glycolic acid a few times a week to prevent clogged pores by removing dead skin cells.
• Moisturizing: Apply an oil-free, non-comedogenic moisturizer to keep the skin hydrated without clogging pores.

2. Avoid picking or squeezing pimples:

• Picking or squeezing cystic pimples can worsen inflammation, spread bacteria, and increase the risk of scarring.

3. Manage stress:

• High stress levels can trigger hormonal fluctuations that lead to cystic acne. Incorporate stress-reducing activities like meditation, exercise, or yoga into your routine.

4. Watch your diet:

• Low-glycemic diet: Avoid high-glycemic foods like sugary snacks and refined carbs that can spike blood sugar levels and trigger acne.
• Dairy intake: Some studies suggest that reducing dairy intake may help prevent cystic acne, especially in individuals who are sensitive to it.

5. Choose the right skincare and cosmetic products:

• Use non-comedogenic and oil-free skincare products and makeup to avoid clogging pores. Always remove makeup thoroughly before bed.

6. Maintain good hygiene:

• Regularly wash your pillowcases, towels, and face masks to prevent the buildup of bacteria and oils that can contribute to acne.

7. Stay hydrated:

• Drink plenty of water throughout the day to keep your skin hydrated and help flush out toxins that could contribute to acne.

8. Protect your skin from the Sun:

• Use a broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher to protect your skin from UV damage, which can worsen acne and lead to post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation.

9. Hormonal management:

• For those with hormonal imbalances, consider discussing options like birth control pills or spironolactone with your doctor to help regulate hormones and reduce acne flare-ups.

10. Consult a dermatologist:

• If you’re prone to cystic acne, regular visits to a dermatologist can help you manage your skin condition with personalized treatment plans and early intervention when needed.

How to get rid of cystic pimples?

Getting rid of cystic pimples requires a combination of medical treatments, proper skincare, and lifestyle changes. Here's a step-by-step guide to effectively manage and reduce cystic pimples:

1. Consult a dermatologist:

• Professional diagnosis: The first and most important step is to consult a dermatologist who can assess the severity of your cystic acne and recommend an appropriate treatment plan.
• Prescription medications: Your dermatologist may prescribe oral or topical medications, such as antibiotics, retinoids, or hormonal treatments, depending on your specific needs.

2. Use prescription medications:

• Oral antibiotics: Reduce bacteria and inflammation from within. Commonly prescribed options include doxycycline and minocycline.
• Topical retinoids: Medications like adapalene or tretinoin help to unclog pores and promote skin cell turnover.
• Isotretinoin: For severe cases, isotretinoin (Accutane) may be prescribed, which is highly effective in reducing oil production and preventing the formation of new cysts.
• Hormonal treatments: Birth control pills or spironolactone can be effective for managing cystic acne related to hormonal imbalances.

3. Consider in-office treatments:

• Corticosteroid injections: A quick and effective way to reduce the size and pain of a cystic pimple is to have a dermatologist inject a corticosteroid directly into the cyst.
• Incision and drainage: In some cases, your dermatologist may opt to drain the cyst, which can help to reduce pressure and pain.
• Laser and light therapy: These treatments can reduce bacteria and inflammation, promoting quicker healing.

4. Follow a consistent skincare routine:

• Gentle cleansing: Wash your face twice daily with a mild, non-comedogenic cleanser to remove dirt, oil, and bacteria.
• Spot treatments: Apply treatments containing salicylic acid, benzoyl peroxide, or sulfur directly to the cystic pimple to help reduce inflammation and speed up healing.
• Moisturizing: Use an oil-free, non-comedogenic moisturizer to keep your skin hydrated without clogging pores.

5. Avoid picking or squeezing:

• Picking or squeezing cystic pimples can lead to increased inflammation, infection, and scarring. It’s best to leave them alone and let treatments work.

6. Maintain a healthy lifestyle:

• Diet: Consider a low-glycemic diet, avoiding foods that spike blood sugar levels, as these can exacerbate acne. Reducing dairy intake may also help in some individuals.
• Stress management: Practice stress-reducing activities like yoga, meditation, or regular exercise, as stress can trigger or worsen cystic acne.

7. Protect your skin:

• Sun protection: Use a broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher, as sun exposure can worsen acne and lead to post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation.
• Avoid harsh products: Steer clear of skincare products that contain alcohol, fragrance, or other irritants that can aggravate cystic pimples.

8. Stay hydrated:

• Drinking plenty of water helps to keep your skin hydrated and can support your skin’s healing process.
• Cystic pimples can be stubborn and painful, but with the right combination of dermatologist-recommended treatments, consistent skincare, and lifestyle adjustments, you can effectively manage and reduce their appearance. Early intervention and professional guidance are key to minimizing the risk of scarring and achieving clearer skin.

How to shrink a cystic pimple overnight?

While completely eliminating a cystic pimple overnight is unlikely, there are several effective methods to reduce its size, redness, and discomfort. 

Here’s how you can shrink a cystic pimple as quickly as possible:

1. Apply a cold compress:

• How it helps: A cold compress can reduce swelling and numb the area, helping to alleviate pain and shrink the pimple slightly.
• How to use: Wrap an ice cube in a clean cloth and apply it to the cystic pimple for 10-15 minutes. Repeat this process several times throughout the evening.

2. Use an over-the-counter spot treatment:

• Benzoyl peroxide: Reduces bacteria and inflammation. Apply a small amount directly to the pimple.
• Salicylic acid: Helps to unclog pores and reduce inflammation. Apply a thin layer to the affected area.

3. Apply a cortisone cream:

• How it helps: Over-the-counter hydrocortisone cream can reduce inflammation and redness.
• How to use: Apply a small amount directly to the cyst before bed.

4. Try a pimple patch:

• How it helps: Pimple patches, especially those containing hydrocolloid, help to draw out impurities and reduce inflammation. Some patches also contain acne-fighting ingredients like salicylic acid or tea tree oil.
• How to use: Apply the patch to clean, dry skin before going to bed. Leave it on overnight to absorb excess oil and reduce the size of the pimple.

7. Consult a dermatologist for a cortisone injection:

• How it helps: If you have access to a dermatologist and need a quick fix, a cortisone injection can dramatically reduce the size of a cystic pimple within hours.
• How to use: This should be done by a professional and is the most effective way to shrink a cystic pimple quickly.

While it's not possible to completely eliminate a cystic pimple overnight, these methods can significantly reduce its size, redness, and discomfort by morning. For persistent or severe cases, consulting a dermatologist is the best course of action.

Conclusion

Cystic acne is a severe form of acne characterized by painful, pus-filled cysts that form deep beneath the skin's surface. The intense inflammation and damage to skin tissue often result in scarring, which can significantly impact cosmetic appearance and overall skin quality. Treating cystic acne typically requires a combination of approaches, including topical solutions, oral medications, and sometimes alternative therapies. In more persistent cases, dermatologists may recommend specific procedures such as corticosteroid injections, IPL (Intense Pulsed Light), or laser therapy to effectively target and reduce stubborn cysts. The expert team at SKIN111 clinics are ready to assist you with any enquiries.