The Home Remedies For Cystic Acne: What Natural Ingredients Can Help To Clear Up Your Skin
Acne is the most common skin condition in the United States, affecting up to 50 million Americans annually. And of those affected, 20 percent will suffer from cystic acne ufffd the most severe form of acne. If youufffdre one of the millions of Americans suffering from cystic acne, you know that this painful, embarrassing condition can be tough to treat. But there is hope.
While there is no one-size-fits-all solution for cystic acne, there are a number of natural ingredients that can help to clear up your skin. This home remedies for cystic acne guide will explore some of these ingredients and offer tips on how to use them effectively.
One word of caution: if youufffdre suffering from severe or persistent acne, itufffds always best to consult with a dermatologist or other medical professional before trying any new treatment, home remedy or over-the-counter medication.
Home remedies for cystic acne:
Wait Out The Skin Purging Process
Acne-fighting products often involve an adjustment period for skin to get used to the ingredients. At first, skin might become more dry or flaky. Acne may even worsen for a few weeks. Usually, skin adjusts after 4-6 weeks. However, it may be helpful to only use acne creams every other day to prevent skin from drying out. Make sure not to use more than the recommended amount of product. It wont speed up the acne-clearing process and will only make skin drier.
How To Get Rid Of Acne On Dry Skin
If too much oil can increase the chance of acne, but too little can cause dryness, then getting rid of acne while experiencing dry skin can seem challenging. So what are the best tactics to treat both conditions at the same time? When it comes to medication, some prescription and over-the-counter medicines tend to dry out facial skin.
When you try a new topical acne treatment, if it causes redness or irritation, opt for a milder version that contains a lower dosage of acne medication and see if your skin responds more favorably to it. Another option is to reduce the frequency of your topical acne medicine applications. Sometimes starting out with a once a day application and then gradually increasing to twice a day can make a big difference. Some people with naturally dry and sensitive skin, fear that moisturizers specifically formulated for dry skin will be heavier and worsen their breakouts by clogging pores. However, if you dont moisturize, your skin can become too dry, signaling your body to produce more sebum. Always use noncomedogenic moisturizers and try different ones specifically made for day and night time.
Don’t Miss: What’s The Best Product For Acne
How To Treat Acne With Dry Skin
Its the oldest story in the skincare book: Dry winter air leads to dry skin. Theres no way around it its true no matter what your skin type is. Whats less obvious, though, is how to deal with it if youre plagued by constant breakouts. If an excess of oil is what clogs pores, isnt dryness, then, a good thing? And how can you take down your acne without damaging dry, delicate skin even more? Its not as simple as you might think. The good news: Finding a balance between treating breakouts and nurturing skin is tough, but not impossible. Here, how to score soft and clear skin.
School Yourself First
For some people, dry winter air helps, because the production of oil and sebum is reduced. For others, skin looks worse because it gets dry and very irritated, says Elizabeth Tanzi, M.D., dermatologist and founder & director of Capital Laser & Skin Care in Washington, D.C. So you might be totally fine when the temps start to sink! But if youre prone to more serious skin conditions that get worse in the winter, like rosacea or dermatitis, its not as easy. Acne is definitely affected by inflammation, says NYC-based celebrity facialist Joanna Vargas. If your skin gets eczema or dry patches, this could make breakouts worse.
Beware Anti-Acne Products
Be Wise and Moisturize
Give Your Face a Mini-Massage
Exfoliate with Caution
Related:
How To Treat Acne If You Have Dry Skin
Medically reviewed by Kristin Hall, FNP
Although acne is usually associated with oily skin, its far from uncommon to experience acne breakouts if you have dry, sensitive skin.
Treating acne when you have dry skin can be a serious challenge. Many of the most effective, science-based acne treatments work well, but can worsen dryness and cause side effects like irritation, inflammation and even skin peeling.
On the other hand, some products that are designed to keep your skin moist and smooth may worsen acne.
Luckily, options are available for acne that affects dry skin, including over-the-counter products, prescription medications and basic changes that you can make to your day-to-day lifestyle and skin care habits.
Weve listed all of these below, along with more information on what you can do if you have dry, sensitive skin thats prone to acne.
You May Like: How To Get Rid Of Acne Scars From Face
Prevention Of Acne On Dry Skin
Additionally, there are things you can do to help prevent these skin issues from occurring or getting worse.
1. When using anti-acne ointments or products, use a spot treatment. This means that you should apply it only on the specific spot on which the acne lies. Do not apply it to your entire face. This reduces the drying effect of these treatments.
2. Do not wash your face too often. This reduces the loss of your natural moisture.
3. Allow your skin time to get used to a skincare regime and then stick to it.
4. Do not exfoliate your skin, as this can make it drier.
5. If you visit a dermatologist, they might give you oral medication to treat your acne. This can avoid drying the skin out. Never take any oral medication without consulting with a doctor.
6. Protect your skin from the sun and pollutants.
Where Does Acne Come In
Acne affects more than 40 million Americans, particularly adolescents. However, many adults and even small children fall into this category. We have millions of tiny hair follicles and pores on most of our bodies, including our faces. When oil, dirt, and bacteria clog these hair follicles, bumps on our skin can form, commonly known as acne. These can range from whiteheads, blackheads, and pimples -the common forms of acne- to more severe forms, like nodules and cystic acne.
You May Like: Do Saunas Help With Acne
Risks With Acne Creams Gels And Lotions
The retinoids tretinoin , adapalene , and tazarotene and to a lesser degree salicylic acid, glycolic acid and benzoyl peroxide all make you more sensitive to the sun. You should always wear a non-comedogenic, non-acnegenic sunscreen with a SPF of 30 or higher, like DCL Super Sheer Sunscreen SPF 50, every day. If you are planning extended sun exposure dont use these medications the night before, or morning of, your activity.
Another important pointRetin A, Tazorac, Differin, salicylic acid, glycolic acid and benzoyl peroxide should be stopped 3-5 days before facial waxing, hair removal, facial procedures or chemical peels, unless you are instructed otherwise by your dermatologist. If you dont, you will be sorry. Waxing will pull of the skin along with the wax, as in my post Bride waxes 3 days before weddingdisaster ensues. Chemical peels will penetrate deeper than planned, causing crusting, and may even cause pigment problems or scarring. If you are not having these procedures done in your dermatologists office, the technician should always ask you if you are using any topical acne treatments or taking isotretinoin. If they dont, be wary.
When To See A Dermatologist
If home remedies and over-the-counter medications are not working to treat both dry skin and acne, a person should see a dermatologist.
A dermatologist is a specialist skin doctor who can help determine the best treatment for dry skin and acne in each case. They can also offer prescriptions for stronger medication when necessary.
Read Also: How To Improve Acne Scars
Wash Your Face Less Often
It might seem counterintuitive to wash your face less often if you want to prevent clogged pores, but the truth is that over-cleansing your face can lead to dried-out skin. Unfortunately, this can contribute to your acne problems during the winter months because you’re drying out your skin too much and causing it to over-produce oil to compensate. If you’re unsure whether or not you’re cleansing too often, speak with your dermatologist. You might be surprised at just how normal it is to change up your dermatology services and your skincare routine as the seasons change. It may turn out that you only need to cleanse once daily while the air is dry and cold instead of your normal twice-daily routine. If possible, it’s preferable to cleanse after your day is done in order to remove dirt, makeup, and oil that has built up throughout the day.
Try One Of The Following Dermatologist
Besides topical acne treatment and medications, there are a few other treatments your dermatologist can perform to clear up your acne and improve the look and feel of your skin.
- Chemical Peel: A chemical peel uses alpha and beta hydroxy acids to removes dirt, oil and dead skin to reveal clearer, healthier skin. Chemical peels treat everything from acne, scarring, and fine lines, to dull skin.
- Microdermabrasion: This is a skin surface-level treatment. Using a diamond-tipped wand, your dermatologist removes dead skin cells and clogged pores. The technique helps exfoliate your skin, remove acne scars and restores your natural glow.
- Dermaplaning: Similar to microdermabrasion, except a special blade is used to scrape away dead skin cells and reveal fresher skin.
- Sebacia Acne Treatment: This amazing, new FDA-approved technique to help with all forms of acne. The treatment combines a laser and topical gold microparticles to target oil glands. With three treatments, patients see dramatic results.
- For severe cases of acne, powerful medications like Isotretinoin may be necessary. Your dermatologist will guide you through the process.
You May Like: How To Get Antibiotics For Acne
Habits Lifestyle Changes And Home Remedies
While the right moisturizer, cleanser and medication can make a big difference, treating dry skin thats prone to acne is also about changing your habits.
Often, a few small changes is all it takes to prevent dryness, avoid acne and keep your skin in optimal condition. Use the following habits, lifestyle changes and home remedies to keep your skin moisturized and free of acne:
-
Wash your face two times a day, at most. Although washing your face is an important step for cleaning away excess oil, dirt and other substances, washing too frequently can irritate your skin and worsen acne breakouts.Try to wash your face twice daily once when you wake up and once again right before you go to bed. Its also alright to wash your face after you exercise, especially if you feel sweaty.
Dos & Donts For Dry Skin Acne
DONTs
- Avoid cleansing your face too frequently as even water splashed on the face can dry out your skin.
- Wash your face only once a day. At night, you can scrub it clean with a wet tissue or just splash your face with very little water and gently pat dry.
- Avoid showering with too hot water and long baths. Both can contribute towards drying your skin more.
- Dont use exfoliators till your skin has regained its moisture, as exfoliating scrubs can dry out and irritate the skin further.
- Apply your moisturiser after cleansing and before using any anti-acne ointment. That way, the skin doesnt dry out further and the moisturiser becomes a protective barrier.
- Start with the lowest possible dose of medication or the smallest quantities of ointments when you treat acne on dry skin.
- For cleansing, opt for products that have fruit acids and extracts over beads and other particles.
- Anti-acne treatments that come as water-based gels or astringents and toners can dry your skin more than creams or ointments. Opt for the latter if you have dry skin.
Wrapping Up
While acne can occur on both oily and dry skin, the trick is to recognise the cause and find the right remedy. Keeping the skin moisturised and not washing it too frequently can help it from getting dry. Choosing the right products to treat acne on dry skin is important. Always consult your doctor before opting for medications to treat acne.
Read Also: How To Get Rid Of Acne In Teenage
When To See A Board
Your skin should start to feel better quickly. If these changes do not bring relief, you may want to see a dermatologist. Very dry skin can require a prescription ointment or cream. Dry skin also can be a sign of a skin condition that needs treatment. A dermatologist can examine your skin and explain what can help reduce your discomfort.
Have a skin, hair, or nail problem?
Discover the benefits of seeing a dermatologist.
Why Can Dry Skin Cause Acne
Since the clogging of hair follicles causes acne, dry skin can cause an excess buildup of dead skin cells. This, in turn, can clog your pores. In addition, dry skin makes your pores more likely to break open, allowing acne causing bacteria deeper into the skin. Also, although dry skin can is not a direct cause of acne, it can trigger the production of more sebum or oil in your skin. The oil then creates acne in a continuous cycle of dry skin and acne.
Also Check: How To Get Rid Of Cheek Acne Fast
Use A Cold Compress On Your Face As Often As Possible
Using a cold compress on your face as often as possible can minimize the pain and swelling in your face. The coldness of the compress will reduce inflammation, helping you heal faster. Dry skin is a common problem and often leads to acne breakouts. You probably have tried using different skincare products, but sometimes these dont help. A cold compress can relieve dryness of the face and it is the best technique for face dryness and acne.
The use of a cold compress not only soothes your dry skin but also helps in reducing the redness and irritation that can occur due to dryness. This will also help in curbing acne breakouts caused by dry skin.
How To Reduce Breakouts When You Have Dry Skin
The bitter battle against blemishes. Is there an end in sight? Most of us thought the annoyance of acne would be long gone by now, but pimples, redness, and irritation can persist far beyond those good old glory days of our youth. While we may not be able to banish breakouts forever, we can definitely reduce the frequency and intensity. And if we create certain changes in our beauty routine, adjust our health choices, and address any deeper issues identified by a dermatologist, then we have hope of making quite an improvement in our skins appearance.
Those with dry skin might have a whole different set of concerns, including how to keep skin moisturized without getting excessively greasy. Maintaining balance is key, as we will discuss further, but first a little lesson on how acne occurs, and what conditions can be created to counteract them.
Pimples, blackheads, whiteheads, zits and a whole host of other fun terms are all slightly different ways to describe acne, which occurs when your hair follicles, or pores, become plugged with skin cells and oil. When sebaceous glands in the pores produce excess oil, or sebum, this can create the conditions for acne to flourish. Though sebum protects the skin with its waxy texture, if theres too much it can clog pores. The presence of bacteria, as well as irritations and inflammation may also exacerbate a breakout.
See Related: What is a Good, Natural Toner for Dry Skin?
Also Check: What To Use For Acne
The Treatments For Cystic Acne: What Options Are Available And Which Ones Are Most Effective
Acne is a common skin condition that can affect people of all ages. Cystic acne is a particularly severe form of acne that can be painful and difficult to treat. If youâre struggling with cystic acne, you may be wondering what your treatment options are.
There are a number of different treatment options available for cystic acne. You may need to try a few different approaches before you find one that works for you. Some common treatments for cystic acne include topical creams and ointments, oral medications, and cleansers.
If youâre considering any type of treatment for your cystic acne, itâs important to consult with a dermatologist first. They can help you understand the causes of your acne and recommend the best course of treatment.
Once youâve started treatment, there are a few things you can do to help clear your skin:
â Use a gentle cleanser: Avoid scrubbing or exfoliating your skin, which can irritate already-inflamed pores and make blemishes worse. Instead, opt for a gentle cleanser that wonât strip your skin of its natural oils.
â Moisturize regularly: Keeping your skin hydrated is an important part of any skincare routine, but itâs especially important when youâre dealing with cystic acne. Look for a moisturizer thatâs non-comedogenic so it wonât clog your pores.
Choose A Clarifying Cleanser
When youre looking for products to deal with dryness and treat acne, dont forget it includes your face wash. If youre washing with whatevers sitting in the soap dish, you may be causing your skin more issues. Look for a dermatologist-recommended product that addresses acne and dry skin.
A good cleanser will wash away the old skin cells and sebum that has settled on your skin over the course of the day. Water alone cant cut it, so youll need a little assistance in order to dissolve the dirt, detritus, makeup and more. If youre particularly sensitive or use medicine that makes your skin dry, be sure to seek out a gentle hydrating cleanser. Choose a product that wont irritate or cause dryness, because you cant fight fire with fire. Even if youre bummed out by those blemishes, this is an opportunity to keep skin hydrated, not hurt it with overly harsh scrubs or drying chemicals.
Look for ingredients that address dryness and also help you ditch dirt without stripping away natural oils. You dont want what you use to work against the skin barrier, which protects the bodys water balance. Vivian Woodards Enriched Cleanser manages to remove makeup, dirt, and excess oil and leaves no pore-clogging residue behind. Its a fabulous formula that sets up your skin for a clear complexion .
Recommended Reading: How To Clear Forehead Acne
