How does an injection for a cystic pimple work?

Doctor's Answers 1

Hi,

A cystic pimple (often termed acne cyst by doctors) is caused by very intense inflammation resulting in breakdown of tissue where the pimple first started. This broken down tissue is mushy and jelly-like. Understanding this, if you have a cystic pimple, your doctor will attempt to reduce the inflammation fast to give you quick relief as well as to minimize future scarring.

The reduction of intense pimple inflammation often requires oral medication such as antibiotics or isotretinoin. A local injection of a mild steroid solution (e.g. triamcinolone acetonide) will act to quickly reduce the local inflammation and allow the cystic pimple to shrink faster.

A larger cystic pimple (e.g. more than 10mm in diameter) that fails to respond to the above combination treatment may require a minor surgical procedure to extract the pus.

Hope this helps!

Similar Questions

Are acne patches really effective for cystic acne?

Hi, Most pimple patches are actually hydrocolloid wound dresssings to assist in wound healing. Some may contain mild levels of salicylic acid that helps dry out pimples. Acne patches may have a role in aiding skin healing together with proven medical treatment. However, cystic acne is due to deep intense inflammation that will cause significant scarring if not treated quickly and effectively. For cystic acne, the most effective treatment is oral isotretinoin. It is strongly recommended that you see a doctor early to commence on effective treatment in order to reduce scarring.

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What are ways to treat cystic acne when Benzoyl peroxide and Doxycycline did not manage to alleviate the condition? (photo)

Thank you for your question. If cystic acne is not responding to oral antibiotics and topical benzoyl peroxide, oral isotretinoin is a good option as this is a very effective treatment for cystic acne. Intralesional steroid injection is a good option to consider too for cystic acne. It helps to quickly reduce the inflammation and size of the cysts. This treatment can be used together with oral antibiotics or isotretinoin which help to prevent new cysts from developing.

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