Cystic acne is a severe form of acne that can be painful, embarrassing, and difficult to manage. It is characterized by deep, inflamed acne lesions that form under the skin and can lead to scarring.

If you suffer from cystic acne, it’s important to seek professional help from a dermatologist. However, there are also steps you can take at home to manage your symptoms and minimize breakouts. Here are some expert tips and tricks for managing cystic acne:.

1. Keep Your Skin Clean

Cleaning your skin is the first and most crucial step in managing cystic acne. You should wash your face twice a day with a gentle cleanser. Avoid using harsh soaps or scrubs, as these can irritate your skin and make your acne worse.

It’s also essential to remove all makeup before going to bed to avoid clogging pores.

2. Don’t Touch Your Face

Do not touch your face if you have cystic acne. Squeezing or picking at your pimples can cause more inflammation and make the acne worse. It can also lead to scarring and hyperpigmentation.

It’s best to let the pimples run their course and heal on their own.

3. Use Non-Comedogenic Products

When choosing skincare and makeup products, look for those labeled non-comedogenic. These products won’t clog your pores and worsen your acne. Avoid using heavy creams and lotions, which can also block pores.

Instead, choose lightweight, oil-free products that won’t contribute to breakouts.

4. Use Topical Acne Treatments

There are several over-the-counter topical treatments that can help manage cystic acne. Look for products that contain benzoyl peroxide, salicylic acid, or alpha hydroxy acids. These ingredients can help unclog pores and reduce inflammation.

However, keep in mind that these treatments may take several weeks to see results.

5. Try Prescription Acne Medications

If your acne is severe, your dermatologist may prescribe prescription medications to manage your symptoms. These may include oral antibiotics, topical retinoids, or hormonal medications.

It’s important to follow your dermatologist’s instructions carefully to avoid side effects and get the best results.

6. Use Ice to Reduce Swelling

If you have a particularly inflamed pimple, you can place a piece of ice on it to reduce swelling. Wrap the ice in a clean cloth to prevent skin damage, and apply it to the spot for 5-10 minutes at a time.

This can help soothe the skin and reduce inflammation.

7. Avoid Sun Exposure and Tanning Beds

Exposure to the sun or tanning beds should be avoided if you have cystic acne. Sun exposure can cause pigmentation changes and make your acne scars more noticeable.

Additionally, some acne medications can make your skin more sensitive to the sun, so be sure to wear sunscreen if you go outside.

8. Manage Your Stress

Stress is a common trigger for acne. Practice stress-management techniques such as yoga, meditation, or deep breathing to help reduce your stress levels. Getting plenty of sleep and exercising regularly can also help manage stress.

9. Maintain a Healthy Diet

Diet can also play a role in managing cystic acne. It’s essential to eat a healthy, balanced diet and avoid processed foods and sugary drinks. Some studies have indicated that dairy and high-glycemic-index foods may worsen acne in some individuals.

It may be helpful to keep a food journal to track which foods may be triggering your breakouts.

10. Be Patient

Managing cystic acne can be frustrating, and it may take some time to find a treatment that works for you. Be patient and consistent with your skincare routine, and don’t get discouraged if you don’t see immediate results.

Working with your dermatologist and making lifestyle changes can help you manage your symptoms and prevent future breakouts.