Benzoyl peroxide is good for all types of acne, including cysts, blackheads and whiteheads, but it's particularly great at treating inflammatory cystic acne.
Benzoyl peroxide topical acne treatment can be used to treat any type of acne, but it is most effective on inflammatory acne, called acne vulgaris. It can also be used for whiteheads, blackheads, and cystic acne, but it should be used in combination with other medications for these types of acne.
Benzoyl peroxide works particularly well for inflammatory acne, which is characterized by red bumps that contain pus — pustules, papules, cysts, and nodules — instead of whiteheads and blackheads.
Isotretinoin. Isotretinoin (Accutane), a powerful prescription medication, is considered the most effective treatment measure for cystic acne. It's derived from a powerful form of vitamin A, taken in tablet form every day. About 85 percent of people who take it experience improvements within four to six months.
The first way to combat sebaceous cyst acne is by having them drained. A dermatologist will make a small cut in the cyst and gently squeeze out the liquid. Another drainage option to combat sebaceous cysts include fine-needle aspiration. A thin needle is inserted into the cyst to drain the liquid.
Hormonal changes, including those caused by menopause, menstruation, pregnancy, and certain medical conditions like polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS), can be triggers for cystic acne.
Hot compress
Simple heat is the most recommended and effective home measure for draining or shrinking cysts. Here's how it works: Heat may reduce the thickness of liquid in the cyst. In the case of liquid-filled epidermoid cysts, this may help fluid drain quicker into the lymphatic system.
When a sebaceous cyst ruptures under the skin, it's not usually infected. In most cases, it needs to be drained by a doctor who can lance the cyst. Some physicians prescribe antibiotics to settle the red, painful area of inflammation.
During the first 3 weeks you are using benzoyl peroxide, your skin may become irritated. Also, your acne may seem to get worse before it gets better. If your skin problem has not improved within 4 to 6 weeks, check with your doctor.
Research suggests that acne on your chin and jawline is often related to hormones , particularly in women. Hormones called androgens stimulate the production of sebum, which is the oil responsible for clogging pores. Acne is very common among teenagers because hormone production increases during this time.
Hold this [cooled] needle in your hand, and brace that hand against your face, or a non-moving surface to stabilize your hand so it doesn't shake about, and gently pierce the top of the pustule with the needle. Then, pull up to lift open a hole within the pimple,” instructs Lee.
A sebaceous cyst is found on the face, neck, or torso. It's usually caused by trauma or damage to the sebaceous glands, such as from cuts or surgical wounds. A large cyst may cause pressure and pain. It's noncancerous and very slow growing.
Start by washing your face twice a day with a gentle cleanser to remove excess oil from your skin. If that doesn't work, try an over-the-counter acne product containing ingredients like benzoyl peroxide or salicylic acid. You can also try a natural acne remedy, such as: aloe vera.
While you may want to pop your cyst open, you should never do so by squeezing or picking at it. Most cysts are nearly impossible to squeeze out with your fingers alone. Plus, you can send bacteria and sebum deep below the hair follicles, causing the materials to spread and make even more cysts.
It might be tempting, but don't try to pop or drain the cyst yourself. That can cause infection, and the cyst will probably come back. Keep it clean by washing with warm soap and water. Try putting a bathwater-warm washcloth on it for 20 to 30 minutes, three to four times a day, to help soothe it and speed healing.
Like I mentioned earlier, salicylic acid and sulfur won't help cystic acne. It can make it even worse if it dries out or irritates your skin.
These serious side effects are rare and happen in less than 1 in 1,000 people. Stop using benzoyl peroxide if: the skin that you're treating becomes swollen. you get blisters on your skin.
If you have blackheads and whiteheads, salicylic acid alone should work well to clear out your pores. If your acne tends to be inflammatory, such as papules and pustules, opt for benzoyl peroxide to stop outbreaks at the source. For sensitive skin, start with salicylic acid, since it's less likely to cause irritation.
Epidermoid cysts often go away without any treatment. If the cyst drains on its own, it may return. Most cysts don't cause problems or need treatment. But if a cyst is a concern to you for any reason, see your healthcare provider.
Why do cysts form? Some of the cells in the top layer of skin produce keratin, a protein that gives skin its strength and flexibility. Normally, these cells move up to the surface of the skin as they start to die so they can be shed. But the cells sometimes move deeper into the skin and multiply, forming a sac.
Some cysts are cancerous and early treatment is vital. If left untreated, benign cysts can cause serious complications including: Infection – the cyst fills with bacteria and pus, and becomes an abscess. If the abscess bursts inside the body, there is a risk of blood poisoning (septicaemia).