Cystic Acne
Cystic acne is a severe form characterized by large, painful nodules deep within the skin. It carries a high risk of permanent scarring and often resists over-the-counter products.
Symptoms
Deep, tender, pus-filled lumps beneath the skin on the face, jawline, chest, and back. Lesions persist for weeks and often leave pitted or raised scars.
Causes and risk
The same factors driving regular acne are amplified. Hormonal surges, family history of severe acne, stress, and heavy occlusive products worsen flares.
How it is evaluated
Diagnosis is clinical. We assess nodule count, scarring, and prior treatments. Hormonal evaluation is considered in females with irregular cycles or hirsutism.
Treatment
Oral antibiotics combined with topical retinoids are first-line. Intralesional corticosteroid injections rapidly reduce individual cysts. Isotretinoin is the most effective long-term option. Our Chicago providers guide patients through monitoring.