Cystic Acne
There are several forms of Acne, but one of the most severe is
Cystic Acne. Cystic Acne is identified by nodules or cysts that
can be painful to the touch. One of the most extreme disadvantages
of Cystic Acne is the fact that when the nodules begin to heal,
they leave permanent scars. Additionally, the cysts can become very
large, join with other cysts, and spread over large areas of the
body. In fact, it isn't uncommon to experience Cystic Acne on the
back, shoulders, chest, and arms, in addition to the face. The cysts,
or nodules associated with Cystic Acne are filled with pus and can
become extremely painful. Due to the large size, raised, painful
surface, and bright, vivid red or purple hue to the cysts, there
is no doubt that those who suffer with Cystic Acne experience not
only physical pain, but are also susceptible to emotional pain and
self-esteem issues as well.
There is a vast misconception regarding Acne that the condition
is due to poor or negligent hygiene practices. This is not true
and can cause many Acne sufferers to cause more irritation to their
skin. Believing that excessive amounts of oil and dirt are causing
the outbreaks, the Acne sufferer might begin to vigorously scrub
their face with numerous products, causing the skin to become more
painful, sensitive, and irritated. Thought it's true that sebum,
or oil, plays an important role in the cause of Acne, it is not
a sign of poor hygiene.
The skin is comprised of openings called pores. Underneath the
pores, are hair follicles and oil glands. The oil glands produce
oil that lubricates the hair follicle as well as the skin's surface.
However, when a hair follicle begins to grow the wrong way, or when
an excessive amount of oil is produced, irritation will form. The
sebum, then traps other material, such as dirt, and causes an infection.
The result is pimples, Acne, lesions, cysts, or boils depending
upon the severity of the inflammation. Though the condition is caused
by excessive oil, the condition typically occurs underneath the
skin, rather than the surface layer, though this can happen.
Some internal causes of Cystic Acne include hormonal changes, stress,
and taking various medications that alter the balance of the skin's
natural oil levels. These conditions cannot be treated or affected
by washing the face vigorously and must be addressed through other
methods. Typically, the best course of treatment for Cystic Acne
that is the result of these underlying conditions, is to use specific
medications and products that reduce the irritation.
When treating Cystic Acne, it is important to use skin products
specifically designed to treat Acne and follow the directions for
their use. Any products that are put on the skin should be carefully
considered and oily products should be avoided. Always check with
your dermatologist regarding Acne treatments to ensure that you
are not exacerbating the problem, but actually treating it in a
wise, safe, and effective manner. Since Cystic Acne has the potential
to cause permanent scarring in the skin, it is imperative to find
a treatment method as quickly as possible.
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