If you’ve struggled with cystic acne, you’re well aware of the standard advice: it’s hormonal, topical treatments are useless, and the only real solution is the heavy-hitter, Accutane, which may not even work for you. I understand your frustration; I’ve been on a two-decade quest to conquer my cystic acne, and I think I might finally be onto something.
A Quick Overview of Cystic Acne
According to skincare guru, Lisa from Skin Solutions, cystic acne is one of the most severe types of acne. It manifests as lesions that rupture beneath the skin, pushing the blockage and swollen contents beyond the reach of typical topical treatments. When oil glands go into overdrive, they burst, creating painful cysts that feel like tiny ball bearings lodged deep within your skin.
If your experience mirrors mine, you’ve been battling the same underground zits for years. They hide beneath the surface, only to resurface when you least expect it, leaving behind unsightly scars as reminders.
My Journey to Finding Relief
I didn’t face severe acne during my teenage years, only the occasional blemish or rough patch, often blamed on stress or hormonal changes. I feel fortunate, as many endure relentless acne struggles. But those elusive underground zits? A nightmare.
Here’s a rundown of my attempts to eliminate them:
- Popping: Yeah, right! These don’t have whiteheads, and trying to pop them usually results in a bloody mess or worse.
- Drying them out: This just creates a scaly mess around the cyst while the angry bump at the center remains vibrant red.
- Retin-A: I’m still unsure what this miracle cream does. It’s supposed to help, but it left my skin so sensitive that even a breeze felt like torture.
- Frequent pillowcase changes: A good practice, but it didn’t yield results.
- Facials: Never again! I’ve learned my lesson about letting non-MDs mess with my face.
- Renée Rouleau Anti-Cyst Treatment: This over-the-counter remedy works best in the early stages of a cyst. Apply it religiously at the first sign, or face the wrath of a fully-formed cyst.
- Corticosteroid shots: These are effective, but I can’t keep running to the doctor every time I have a flare-up.
- Antibiotics: They worked for a while, but we all know they’re not a sustainable solution.
- Home acid peel kits: What was I thinking? This was a terrible idea.
- Ice: It numbs the pain but can cause more inflammation.
- Relaxation: Thanks for nothing, WebMD.
I haven’t tried hormonal birth control or spironolactone yet, which I’ve heard can work wonders.
What Actually Helped
When I visited my dermatologist, I was ready for the usual short-term fixes. I assumed my cysts were hormonal and was prepared to leave with a corticosteroid shot. But then, my doctor surprised me. “There’s an effective treatment that’s been around for ages. You just haven’t been to a dermatologist in a while.”
Enter Aczone, a popular nonsteroidal topical cream that, along with being kinder to my skin, seems to have kept my cystic acne in check. I assure you, I’m not being paid to recommend this; I’m just an average woman who once struggled with a stubborn series of cysts that felt like they had roots.
Here’s My Routine:
- If I wear makeup, I remove it with Bioderma Sensibio. It’s gentle and effective for everyday grime. I use it almost nightly.
- I wash my face primarily with WATER—yes, just water! Only occasionally a gentle soap.
- I continue with Retin-A to improve my skin overall. I’m not convinced yet, but I’m dedicated.
- I apply Aczone on my chin and mouth area. I don’t use it nightly, but I do at the first sign of trouble. It’s worked wonders so far.
- Major moisturizer and lip balm are essential since these treatments can dry out your skin.
- And, of course, I reapply sunscreen regularly throughout the day.
I’m cautiously optimistic, having been free from major breakouts for over a month. I’m open to exploring natural remedies, but so far, things like egg whites and coconut oil haven’t worked for me. If you can’t get a prescription, I still recommend the Renée Rouleau product, and don’t underestimate the power of hydration—drinking plenty of water is always a good idea.
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Summary:
After years of battling cystic acne and trying various treatments, I found relief with Aczone, a topical cream that, combined with gentle skincare, has helped me maintain clear skin. My regimen now focuses on minimalism, using water to cleanse and being vigilant with my skincare. Although I’m open to natural options, I also recommend checking out resources on fertility if that’s part of your journey.