What Is Cystic Acne?

Cystic acne is a deep, painful type of acne that forms when pores are clogged with oil, dead skin, and bacteria. Instead of staying close to the surface like whiteheads or blackheads, cystic acne develops deep under the skin as large, tender bumps.

Why It Happens

Cystic acne can be caused by:

• Hormonal fluctuations
• Excess oil production
• Bacteria deep in pores
• Inflammation under the skin
• Stress or lifestyle factors

It’s more common in teens but can affect adults too.

Common Signs & Symptoms

✔ Large, painful bumps
✔ Red or inflamed nodules
✔ Deep lesions without a visible head
✔ Scarring and pigmentation after healing
✔ Tenderness to touch

Why Early Treatment Matters

Left untreated, cystic acne often:

✨ Leaves scars
✨ Causes dark marks
✨ Leads to repeated flare-ups

Getting a tailored plan early improves healing and reduces long-term marks.

Typical Treatment Approaches

In Seoul, effective management often includes:

 1. Medical Topicals

• Retinoids
• Antibacterial gels
• Anti-inflammatory serums

 2. Oral Medications (by prescription)

• Antibiotics
• Hormonal therapy (for some patients)
• Isotretinoin (strong option for severe cases)

 3. In-Office Procedures

• Professional extraction (gentle)
• Anti-inflammatory injection
• Laser or light therapies
• Chemical exfoliation

 Combination Plans

Often the best results come from combined treatments, tailored to skin type and severity.

What to Expect During Treatment

• Gradual improvement — acne doesn’t clear overnight
• Redness or dryness with strong topicals
• Consistent follow-up is key
• Adjustments may be made over time

Recovery & Timeline

Most people see noticeable improvement over:

📆 6–12 weeks
(depending on severity and treatment plan)

Severe cystic acne may take longer and require ongoing management.

Daily Care & Lifestyle Tips

✔ Use broad-spectrum sunscreen daily
✔ Avoid harsh scrubs and picking
✔ Cleanse gently twice a day
✔ Non-comedogenic moisturizers
✔ Balanced diet and hydration
✔ Manage stress

Managing Flare-Ups

If a flare-up starts:

👉 Don’t squeeze or pick
👉 Apply anti-inflammatory care
👉 Follow prescribed routine
👉 Consult about adjusting meds

When to Get Professional Help

Seek treatment if you have:

❗ Large, painful cysts
❗ Repeated outbreaks
❗ Early signs of scarring
❗ Emotional distress due to acne

Aftercare & Scarring Prevention

Once cysts heal:

• Gentle brightening/targeted pigmentation care
• Collagen-stimulating treatments if needed
• Sun protection to avoid marks getting darker

Key Takeaways

✅ Cystic acne is deep, painful, and needs more than basic skincare
✅ Early, tailored treatment reduces scarring and downtime
✅ Professional care + smart daily habits = best results