How to Treat Cystic Acne or Acne Nodules

Cystic acne consists of pimples that are soft, pus-filled and inflammed lesions that occur deep in the dermis. They are also referred to as acne nodules, and are very difficult to treat with common acne medications such as benzoyl peroxide and salicylic acid. Since cystic acne and acne nodules occur deep inside the skin they must be treated by a skincare professional in order to minimize scarring and prevent deeper infections.

Things You'll Need

• Appointment with a dermatologist

Instructions

1. Make an appointment to see a skincare professional. In order to get the best treatment for your cystic acne, a dermatologist must examine your skin and determine what medications and treatments will work best for you.

2. Try oral antibiotics such as tetracycline, doxycycline (Vibramycin), minocycline (Minocin) and erythromycin. These are powerful acne medications that work from within to rid your body of cystic acne by destroying the bacteria that causes the infection.

3. Get a glycolic acid or alpha hydroxy acid (AHA) peel. This is a chemical peel that must be done at a dermatologist's office. It causes skin to blister and peel off, thereby removing the acne cysts.

4. Get a cortisone injection, which is an on-the-spot injection administered by a dermatologist that goes directly into the acne cyst to destroy bacteria and reduce inflammation. This is the ideal treatment if you only have one or two acne cysts and want to get rid of them rather quickly.

Tips & Warnings

• Try Accutane. This is a powerful acne medication that must be prescribed, but it's been proven to work.

• Do not pick at your cystic acne lesions. This will make the infection worse and keep your acne from healing.