Cystic Acne Treatment in Singapore

Introduction

Cystic acne is one of the most severe forms of acne and can be particularly challenging to treat without professional help. Characterised by deep, inflamed cysts under the skin, cystic acne can often be painful and cause emotional distress. At Halley Medical Aesthetics in Singapore, we offer effective, personalised treatments for cystic acne. From medications, creams, and facials to doctor treatments in the clinic, Halley Medical Aesthetics aims to help patients achieve clearer skin and regain their confidence. Schedule a consultation to learn how we can help you.

What is cystic acne?

According to National Library of Medicine, the severity of acne can range from mild cases with just a few bumps to severe cases that can cause scarring, dark spots, and emotional distress. Cystic acne isn’t like your classic pimple. It is a severe form of acne that manifests as large, painful lumps under the skin’s surface, and most of them do not come to a head.

Cystic acne are usually inflamed and filled with pus, and they can be painful to touch. It occurs when a hair follicle (or pore) gets clogged with sebum (oil) and dead skin, and there is a presence of the Propionibacterium acnes (P. acnes) bacteria. Due to its severity, it often requires professional treatment. Unlike other types of acne, blackheads, or whiteheads, cystic acne occurs deeper in the skin, takes longer to heal, and can lead to scarring if not treated properly.

Causes and symptoms of cystic acne

Cystic acne can develop due to many factors, or even a combination of several factors. Here are the key causes of cystic acne:

1. Genetics
According to medical study “Genetic Variants Associated with Acne Vulgaris”, both genetics and the environment play a significant role for those suffering from acne. If your family has a history of acne, chances of developing cystic acne may increase significantly. Our skin condition, including sebum production and the tendency to develop clogged pores, are all influenced by genetics.

2. Hormonal Imbalances
Hormones are a major factor in the development of cystic acne. Hormonal fluctuations, especially in androgen, can cause an increase in sebum production and this frequently happen during puberty, menstruation, or pregnancy when hormonal changes are prevalent. Mid-life hormonal changes for females can also trigger breakouts. The hormones may cause the sebaceous glands to produce more sebum and clog hair follicles, leading to cystic acne.

3. Excess Oil Production
Excessive sebum can clog hair follicles. When follicles are clogged with sebum and dead skin cells, it creates an environment for bacteria to grow, causing inflammation and painful cystic acne to form beneath the skin’s surface.

4. Bacteria
P. acnes is a type of bacteria that is present on the skin. However, when the pore is clogged, P. acnes will multiply rapidly to form cystic acne.

5. Lifestyle Factors
Lifestyle choices can also exacerbate cystic acne. These include:

Diet: According to the medical study Diet and Acne: A Systematic Review, increased glycemic intake and high glycemic index (GI) diets have been found to contribute to the development of acne and worsen its severity. Therefore, food such as white bread, bagels, and chips, may worsen cystic acne.
Stress: Stress may not be a direct cause of cystic acne but it can worsen existing conditions. Stress can increase sebum production and exacerbate breakouts.
Skincare Routine: Skincare routines that involves the use of harsh or comedogenic products, over exfoliation, and products that are too heavy and oily may cause or worsen cystic acne. A good skincare routine with proper cleansing and moisturising with the right products can help to ease or manage cystic acne.

Cystic acne can be particularly persistent and hard to treat, requiring targeted treatments to alleviate symptoms.

How to get rid of cystic acne on the chin

Cystic acne often appear on the chin and jawline area. From at home skincare routines to in-clinic treatments, there are steps you can take to improve cystic acne.

Skincare Routine: It may not be possible to cure cystic acne with over-the-counter skin care products, but they can definitely help to manage your cystic acne condition. Look for skincare products with ingredients like salicylic acid, benzoyl peroxide, and adapalene, but remember to go for gentle formulas so that they do not irritate your skin further. Remember to check that your skincare products are non-comedogenic so that they will not clog pores and cause further skin problems.
Professional Treatments: Getting professional advice from your doctor is your best move to banish cystic acne. They are able to prescribe medical grade creams and oral medications, and they can also recommend treatments like laser treatments and chemical peels to improve your skin condition.
Lifestyle Changes: Make some tweaks to your lifestyle to help improve the condition of your cystic acne. Avoiding high-glycemic foods like candy and processed snacks, and reducing your dairy intake is the first step to take. Try to incorporate more whole foods like vegetables and grains. Stress can worsen acne, and a good stress management strategy is also very important. Last but not least, avoid touching or picking your cystic acne to prevent infection and scarring.

Cystic acne treatment options at Halley Medical Aesthetic

How do we treat cystic acne? At Halley Medical Aesthetics, we provide various cystic acne treatment options tailored to each individual’s skin type and severity of acne:

Creams and medications:

Our doctors may prescribe medical topical creams like Tretinoin (Retin A), Adapalene, and Tazarotene for mild acne, and Isotretinoin for severe acne. Oral medications like Tetracyclin, Doxycyclin, Minocyclin, and Spironolactone, for example, are also prescribed to patients with more severe acne conditions. They work together to treat active acne by reducing sebum, unclogging pores, targeting acne-causing bacteria, and balancing hormones to prevent cystic acne and scarring. Retinoids and antibiotics can also be included in your treatment to kill bacteria, reduce inflammation, and minimise redness and swelling.

Laser treatments:

Different types of lasers like Long Pulsed lasers and Pico lasers are available at Halley Medical Aesthetics to treat different types of acne, and acne scars, and can be customised for different skin conditions. Our doctors will advise you on the different treatments to make sure that the correct laser is used for optimal results.

Chemical Peels:

Halley’s Acne Peel is a salicylic acid-based treatment designed to clear acne breakouts and control oily skin. It exfoliates the top layer of the skin, unclog pores, and removes acne-causing bacteria. The treatment deep cleanses the skin to reduce sebum production to prevent future acne formation. Salicylic acid also has anti-inflammatory properties that soothe inflamed skin and reduce swelling.

Microneedling:

Microneedling can improve the appearance of acne scars. It works by stimulating collagen and elastin production in our skin to smooth out scar tissues, improve skin texture, and reduce large pores. Microneedling is a minimally invasive treatment with little downtime and is suitable for most skin types.

Intense Pulsed Light (IPL):

IPL eliminates acne-causing bacteria on the skin. It can also help with acne scars for brighter and more even-toned skin.

Low Level Laser Light:

LED light therapy is also another treatment that can help improve our skin’s acne condition. Blue light is effective in destroying the acne-causing bacteria P. acnes and controlling oily skin to prevent acne, including cystic acne. On the other hand, red light works to reduce inflammation and promote collagen production to heal skin and improve skin texture. Do keep in mind that many of the light therapy home devices are not as powerful as medical grade devices available in clinics, and may only provide subtle improvements in your skin.

Treatment facials:

Halley Medical Aesthetics has different types of treatment facials that are suitable for different skin concerns, and they are great for skin maintenance. Clarifying HydraFacial (Acne) is especially good for acne-prone skin since it provides thorough exfoliation, clears clogged pores, and control sebum production.

Aftercare and prevention

After your acne treatments, it is important to continue taking care of your skin to maintain clear skin. Do follow your doctor’s post-treatment advice closely for cystic acne prevention and aftercare:

Skincare Routine: Continue using recommended skincare products, focusing on sebum control, gentle cleansing and exfoliation, and keeping your skin hydrated.
Diet: Consume a balanced diet rich in whole food and anti-oxidants, and avoid known acne triggers.
Lifestyle Changes: Maintain a healthy lifestyle with regular workouts and learn to manage stress to keep acne triggers under control.

FAQs

How much does cystic acne treatment cost in Singapore?

There are different treatments available at Halley Medical Aesthetics for acne treatment and hence the treatment cost may vary. However, it is important to consult a doctor for a thorough skin assessment to decide which treatment is best suited for your cystic acne condition.

Can cystic acne be treated at home?

While some over-the-counter skincare products can help ease mild symptoms from cystic acne, it usually requires professional treatments to see visible results. A doctor can prescribe creams and medications, carry out various medical treatments to effectively address active acne, and also treat and prevent scarring.

How can I prevent cystic acne from recurring?

Maintain a proper skincare routine and use products that are suited for acne-prone skin. Manage your stress and make sure that you adopt a healthy and balanced diet. Make regular visits to your doctor for maintenance treatments to keep skin healthy and prevent breakouts.

Can cystic acne cause permanent scars?

Yes, cystic acne can cause permanent and even deep scars if it is not treated properly. Early treatment can reduce the risk of scarring.

Is cystic acne related to hormonal changes?

Yes, hormonal changes is one of the factors that cause cystic acne. This shows up during puberty, menstruation, pregnancy, or menopause. The hormonal changes can cause an overproduction of sebum, clogging pores, and leading to painful cystic acne.

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The use of these treatments/products is dependent on the clinical assessment and judgement of a medical professional. Please consult a medical doctor for an informed discussion on the use of this treatment/product.