How Cystic Acne is Different from Regular Acne

Your skin has pores that help your skin to breath and regulate your temperature. At times, different substances can clog these pores. When they become clogged, acne tends to follow.

Acne affects around 50 million Americans every year. This skin condition can affect anyone and can severely hurt your confidence and self-esteem. It is often associated with hormonal changes such as pregnancy, menopause, certain medications, and using particular skin products. You might also get this condition if you wear tight clothing or live in a hot and humid climate.

Acne can affect the face, upper arms, and upper trunk. If you have been living with acne that is affecting your quality of life, it is time to seek treatment. You will likely take the right steps to clear your skin if you can identify the type of acne that is affecting you. There are several different types of acne, with cystic acne and white heads being the most common.

Not sure which kind you may have? Here is the way to tell the difference between regular zits, and pesky cysts.

Cystic Acne and Regular Acne Have Different Causes

Regular acne occurs when the pores on the skin are clogged. Clogging is often associated with the overproduction of sebum by sebaceous glands. Hormonal changes, stress, genetics, or changes in your diet are likely to cause the overproduction of this oil. This oil, together with dead skin cells, mix and get stuck in the pores. If you do not fully remove these cells and oil from your pores, they end up causing regular acne.

On the other hand, cystic acne occurs when regular pimples erupt on the inside of the skin. The erupted pimples form cysts under the skin. As a result, your skin's surface will have hard nodules.

These Two Types of Acne Have Different Characteristics

Regular acne is characterized by small pimples, blackheads, papules, and whiteheads that appear on top of the skin. These skin blemishes are not normally painful, and they disappear in a matter of a few days. If not treated however, they may reappear a few days later.

Cystic acne is characterized by sebaceous cysts that lie under the skin. These cysts are larger than normal papules and pimples, and they are sometimes painful. If not treated, these cysts can remain in the same area for months.

Regular Pimples Have Whiteheads While Sebaceous Cysts Lack Whiteheads

Regular pimples form a whitehead that is attached to the skin surface. On the flip side, sebaceous cysts do not have a whitehead. Therefore, if you try to pop a sebaceous cyst, the substances in the cysts will not come out. Instead, the bacteria inside the cyst will go deeper into your skin.

These Two Types of Acne Are Treated Differently

Dermatologists treat regular acne using practices that unclog your pores. For instance, a dermatologist may tell you to use cleansers, creams, or topical toners on your face when experiencing this type of acne. These products contain salicylic acid, a compound that exfoliates the skin, removing excess oil and dead skin cells from skin pores.

If a bacterial infection causes your regular acne, your dermatologist will advise you to buy a retinoid. The dermatologist might also advise you to buy products with benzoyl peroxide. These products might be topical or oral and will reduce inflammation on your skin. They will also kill the bacteria that is causing your skin troubles.

Cystic acne, on the other hand, is treated using oral antibiotics such as tetracycline. This medication will fight the infections under your skin, reducing the symptoms of this acne. If this medication fails to work, your dermatologist will use Isotretinoin to treat it. This drug is a good medication for cystic acne, but it has side effects. To prevent these side effects, your dermatologist will regularly check in with you. In case of any negative side effects, the dermatologist will meet with you to determine if treatment should be stopped.

If you are a female and all the above drugs fail to work, your doctor may recommend you take anti-androgen medications. These medications will help you if your cystic acne is a result of hormonal imbalance. They will regulate the production of androgen hormone and block the effects of this hormone on sebaceous glands. As a result, your cystic acne will disappear. Your doctor might also use birth control pills to treat your cystic acne.

If all the above treatments do not achieve clear skin, your doctor may opt to drain the cysts through excision. After draining it, they will inject a steroid into the area. The steroid will eliminate the infection in the cysts and make the cysts less painful. You will need to apply antibiotic ointment to the treated area to prevent the formation of scars. Other treatment methods that your doctor might use include laser treatments, chemical peels, and photodynamic therapy.

Acne affects many people, and options are available. If you are dealing with recurring acne that is affecting your quality of life or self-esteem, visit us at Pine Belt Dermatology & Skin Cancer Center to find the right treatment options for you.

< Older Post

Newer Post >

Nail Health: What Your Nails Say About Your Skin and Body

May 1, 2026

At Pine Belt Dermatology & Skin Cancer Center, we believe your nails are more than a cosmetic feature—they give valuable insight into...

When a ‘Rash’ Might Be Something More Serious

April 13, 2026

When a ‘Rash’ Might Be Something More Serious At Pine Belt Dermatology & Skin Cancer Center, we recognize that rashes are common and frequently resolve quickly with minimal treatment. However, some rashes may signify underlying conditions that require prompt medical attention. Identifying when a rash is more than a minor irritation is key to protecting your health. Comprehending Common vs. Concerning Rashes Most everyday rashes result from irritants, allergies, heat, or minor infections and typically improve within a few days with over-the-counter treatments. However, if a rash lasts longer, worsens, or appears with other symptoms, it may signal a more serious issue. Identifying the difference between a routine rash and one that requires medical evaluation helps avoid complications and ensure appropriate care. Warning Signs to Watch For Certain features may indicate a rash requires clinical assessment, including: Rapidly spreading or worsening rash Severe pain, swelling, or blistering Signs of infection such as pus, warmth, or red streaks Fever or flu-like symptoms accompanying the rash A rash that does not improve after several days of treatment Dark, purple, or bruised-looking areas on the skin For example, a rash with fever may indicate a viral or bacterial infection, whereas painful blistering can suggest conditions such as shingles. In rare cases, rashes may signal autoimmune disorders or severe allergic reactions. Rashes That May Point to Underlying Conditions Some rashes may be linked to broader health concerns, including conditions that cause inflammation in the skin and other organs: Allergic reactions that may escalate into further severe responses Infections that spread beyond the skin if untreated Medication reactions that require immediate adjustment Persistent or unusual skin changes may be early signs of skin cancer or precancerous conditions, especially if they do not heal or continue to change over time. Why Early Evaluation Matters Delaying care for a worrisome rash may allow the underlying condition to progress. Early diagnosis improves treatment outcomes and helps prevent discomfort and complications. A dermatology specialist can assess the rash’s appearance, location, and progression, and may recommend diagnostic tests if needed. This approach assures treatment addresses the underlying cause, not just the visible symptoms. When to See a Dermatology Specialist If you are unsure about your rash, it is best to err on the side of caution. Consider seeking care if: The rash is persistent, painful, or unusual in appearance Over-the-counter treatments are not effective You experience additional symptoms such as fever or fatigue The rash interferes with your daily comfort or quality of life At Pine Belt Dermatology & Skin Cancer Center, our experienced providers supply comprehensive skin evaluations and customized treatment plans. We take time to understand your symptoms and deliver clear, effective solutions tailored to your needs. Protecting Your Skin and Your Health While many rashes are minor, some may be early warning signs of more serious health concerns. Monitoring skin changes and pursuing prompt medical advice can produce a notable effect. If you notice a rash that does not seem right, do not ignore it. Schedule a consultation with Pine Belt Dermatology & Skin Cancer Center for expert evaluation and peace of mind. Your skin is an important indicator of your overall health, and taking it seriously supports ongoing well-being.