Hi,
Thanks for your close-up photo. You have Cystic Acne, which is moderate to severe, as well as multiple comedones (blackheads). In the background, you have old acne scars as well.
The dark coloured, bigger lumps are signs of an infected cyst. The reason why it’s tender, swollen and dark coloured, is because your body mounts an inflammatory response to the clogged pores and trapped bacteria.
With cystic acne however, the infection is deeper into your skin, and tends to scar worse as well, accounting for the “crater”-like scar subsequently.
What are the types of acne?
Oil, dead skin cells, or bacteria can clog pores.
If the comedones are open, it is called a blackhead.
If it is closed, they are known as whiteheads.
Papules and pustules are the term for red bumps that are caused by inflammation in the hair follicles while nodules are the painful red bumps caused by the build up of oil secretions deep within hair follicles.
Acne filled with pus is known as cystic acid and it usually can cause scarring.
What causes Cystic Acne in Singapore?
An acne is a localized inflammation resulting from the over activity of oil glands. Changes in hormones often affect oil glands, such as the end of a menstrual cycle, the onset of menopause, or discontinuing the intake of birth control pills.
An increase in stress levels can also cause breakouts because stress causes an increase in the cortisol hormone. The hormone androgen, a male hormone found both in men and women, can worsen acne because it stimulate oil glands and enhances pore blockage.
Some experience acne as a result of genetic disposition while others experience it as a side effect of medications.
How do I treat Cystic acne?
The good news is Cystic Acne is treatable. There is a wide array of acne treatments in Singapore, including doctor-prescribed topical medications that can address the issue and oral medications for severe cases.
There are several other medications that will help your acne apart from topical antibiotics that you have already tried.
Topical medications include retinoids while oral medications include antibiotics, isotretinoin and anti-androgens such as contraceptive pills.
Other patients who prefer more natural routes try applying manuka honey, tea tree oil, and fruit acids as a gentler alternative.
More permanent treatments include Agnes selective sebaceous gland treatment which destroys selected oil glands that repeatedly cause acne.
How do I prevent cystic acne?
Non-comedogenic skin care is also a key part of preventing new acne. It is best to get advise from your aesthetic doctor/dermatologist on the most suitable skin care for your sensitive skin.
HydraFacial MD is a medical treatment facial that helps to deep cleanse and hydrate your skin to prevent new acne outbreaks. It is suitable for sensitive and combination skin types.
How do I find the best doctor for Cystic Acne treatment in Singapore?
1.Experience with Acne and Acne scarring treatment
- Find a doctor who is passionate about acne treatment and is thorough in his consultation.
- Acne can be caused by many factors and it is important that your doctor takes a detailed history and examination to find the best treatment/s that are suitable for your oily/sensitive skin type.
2. Cost-Effective
Given that acne treatments are likely to take months and multiple medications/treatments for good recovery, seeking cost effective medical solutions is definitely a must.
Hope this helps!
Warmest regards,
Dr Justin Boey
