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All types of acne can be divided into two categories, mild and severe. Blackheads, whiteheads and pustules are some of the mild types of acne, these are also the most common type of acne. Although in this article we are going to focus on one of the sever types of acne, cystic acne.

Cystic acne is considered the worst form of acne that exists. In comparison to pimples, whiteheads and others, cystic acne is by far more harmful. This is due to the fact that the infection penetrates deeply within the skin layers and can cause very large and painful nodules. Another denomination for this type of acne is acne vulgaris. Acne cysts or acne nodules, are formed when sebum cannot properly outflow to the surface of the skin and causes lesions to the cells lining the walls of the sebum canals. Once this occurs, the pores become blocked and inflamed due to the immune system trying to fight off the infection. When there are a lot of bacteria, the immune system reacts more powerfully; this often results in a larger size pimple, better known as an acne cyst.

As these powerful attacks occur, the body produces a substance called sebum. Sebum in large amounts is harmful since the risk of a larger bacterial attack increases. Moreover, the excess of sebum on the skin helps increase the appearance of large pimples caused by greater inflammations, bacterial and an oil surplus.

Understanding Cystic Acne

Facial cysts can become even worse thanks to a condition called retention keratosis. When skin cells, especially those that cover hair follicles are disposed improperly, the retention occurs. Also, dead and damaged cells become an easy target for bacterial infections. The bacteria may then pass over to other areas which causes acne cysts to worsen.

Another factor that may contribute to nodulocystic acne is hormones. Certain hormones such as testosterone and androgen can cause the production of sebum to increase. Cysts are formed as a consequence of sebum ducts being clogged since they impair the normal sebum outflow. The lifestyle and the genetic background of a person also influence the severity of acne. Stress behavior can contribute to or even increase acne.

Treating acne cysts is possible despite the fact that they are very serious and the severe acne condition seems beyong the possibilities of products for severe cystic acne treatment. Accutane is medication that many doctors recommend for severe cases. Its function is to shrink the oil glands which will lower the acne infections. Acne may be cleared with this product however some people who have taken Accutane experienced depression as a side effect. This treatment should be considered the last option due to the important risks involved.

Another option can be provided by a dermatologist and it uses cortisone as the active ingredient. The injections provide instant relief of the area affected, reducing its redness and inflammation. Consequently, the pimple is reduced and thus becomes less visible. There are a few side effects such as temporary whitening of the skin and even indentation around the injection area.

It is complicated to cure cystic acne however there are treatments for it. Cystic acne can be quite sensitive so it is wise to choose an acne skin care method that will not irritate or harm the skin. Natural acne products are available that treat cystic acne as well as improve the skin in general.