The harshest and the most painful form of acne is called Cystic Acne. Cystic acne, is the most severe form of acne vulgaris. Deep, inflamed breakouts develop on the face and/or other areas of the body. This form of the infection is very painful, and the infection cannot be cured overnight. Cysts are formed and swollen pus filled red pustules are visible on the external surface of the skin.

Who Gets Cystic Acne?

Cystic acne can affect anyone, but it is more common in teenage boys and young men. Acne seems to run in families. If your parents had cystic acne, you are more likely to experience severe acne yourself.

Causes of Cystic Acne

Cystic acne is caused by the same factors as other forms of acne, which are:

• overactive oil glands
• excess dead skin cells within the hair follicle (pore), and
• a large number of acne-causing bacteria 

•  Harsh cleansers or washing too often
• Squeezing a pimples.
•  Diet can cause or worsen acne. 

Effects of Cystic Acne

Cystic Acne breakouts damage and destroy healthy skin tissue and develops scars. Picking and trying to pop cysts should be avoided at all time. Doing so can greatly damage the skin, lead to scarring, and worsen acne.

It's also common for those with severe acne to have feelings of embarrassment, shame, and anger regarding their skin. Acne can hurt the self-esteem, and may lead to stress. If you feel acne is greatly affecting the quality of your life, please talk to your doctor. 

Treatment

The best cystic acne treatment is to keep your face clean and free of bacteria by using a gentle facial cleanser on a daily basis. This technique works for 80% of cystic acne suffers. If you are a part of the 20% that still suffers from cystic acne.

If you are avoiding all your personal causes of cystic acne, then your personal cystic acne cure may be a medication of some sort. Starting with a mild cleanser once or twice a day is the standard routine. If this is ineffective, than a dermatologist may be required.