Cystic Acne is one of the most severe forms of acne. It is accompanied by a large surface area of infection and big inflamed pustules. It is also characterized by pain although in some cases, pain is not present.

Cystic acne usually takes long time for healing and usually leaves scars. Sometimes, the scars can be permanent or take a long time for healing. Cysts occur as infections under the skin surface. As the infection spreads over a larger area and more and more cells get damaged, the size of the cyst keeps increasing and it finally comes to the surface. It keeps growing in size from here. Picking or touching is known to increase the size of the cyst rapidly.

Physicians usually prescribe antibiotics. But, antibiotics can kill useful bacteria that actually help keep the acne in check. Further, most of the acne causing bacteria are resistant to antibiotics. Retin A and benzoyl peroxide gels are generally prescribed, although in extremely severe cases drugs like acutance have been prescribed despite its drastic side effects.

It has to be noted that there is no one sure way to treat cystic acne. Different treatment methods work for different people depending on various tangible and intangible factors. But any good treatment would aim at treating the problem at its roots instead of addressing the effects.

A few things like a good diet, proper exercise and a stress free living, drinking a lot of water are known causes to keep acne under check. In a long term, these basics could be very useful in having a skin free of break outs. Regular washing and good hygiene and sanitation also will contribute to having a clear skin.