Causes and Treatment Methods for Cystic Acne at HBIO Clinic

Cystic acne is a severe inflammatory skin condition that easily swells, becomes painful, and may leave scars if handled incorrectly. At HBIO Clinic, we understand that to treat cystic acne effectively, one must begin by identifying its root causes and formation mechanisms. This article provides a clear overview to help you choose a safe and suitable treatment for your skin.

What Is Cystic Acne?

Cystic acne (also known as Nodular Acne) is a serious type of inflammatory acne that forms when pores are deeply clogged with excess oil, dead skin cells, and P. acnes bacteria. Unlike common acne types such as blackheads or whiteheads, images of cystic acne show that these lesions are swollen, painful, lie deep under the skin, and can leave scars if not properly treated.

Types of Cystic Acne

• Cystic acne with pus

• Cystic acne without pus

• Deep nodular cystic acne

• Recurrent cystic acne

• Clustered cystic acne under the skin

Signs of Cystic Acne

• Large, visibly red and swollen lesions

• Pain when touched, with or without pus

• Deep under the skin, with prolonged inflammation

• Commonly appears in clusters on the cheeks, chin, forehead, or back

• May leave pitted scars or dark spots if popped or mistreated

This is a condition that requires early medical intervention with professional cystic acne treatment to avoid long-term skin damage.

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Causes of Cystic Acne

Cystic acne results from a combination of internal and external factors. The most common causes of cystic acne include:

• Hormonal imbalance triggering overactive oil glands, especially during puberty, menstruation, pregnancy, or perimenopause

• Excess sebum leading to clogged pores, allowing bacteria to thrive and cause deep inflammation

• Rapid growth of P. acnes bacteria when pores are blocked, causing swollen, red, and painful cysts

• Unhealthy lifestyle: lack of sleep, chronic stress, oily/sugary/spicy foods disrupting metabolism and hormones

• Use of unsuitable or harsh cosmetics, aggressive cleansing, or incorrect skincare habits

• Popping pimples at home using non-sterile hands or tools, pushing bacteria deeper and worsening inflammation

• Genetic predisposition: oily skin, large pores, or family history of severe acne

Cystic Acne Treatment at HBIO Clinic

At HBIO Clinic, all cystic acne treatments are designed based on medical standards, safety, and customization for each skin condition. Our dermatologists assess inflammation level, skin type, sensitivity, and causes of cystic acne to provide the most suitable treatment plan. Current treatments include:

Chemical Peel

This method uses controlled concentrations of organic acids (AHA, BHA, or TCA) to remove dead skin cells, excess oil, and debris—major contributors to pore blockage and cystic acne.
Effective for early-stage cysts or post-pus stage, it helps cleanse, reduce inflammation, clear acne cores, and prevent recurrence.

Pulsed Dye Light (PDL) Therapy

PDL light therapy targets P. acnes bacteria using specific wavelengths to reduce follicle inflammation and manage cystic acne.

It helps reduce redness, swelling, and calms active cysts while accelerating tissue regeneration. Ideal for sensitive or irritation-prone skin.

Read now: What Causes Hidden Acne? How to Treat It Effectively

Microneedling

Microneedling creates controlled micro-injuries using nano-needles to stimulate the skin’s healing response and deliver active ingredients (Niacinamide, BHA, Azelaic Acid) deep into the dermis.

Not used during severe inflammation, but highly effective post-acne to treat cystic acne, fade dark spots, heal scars, and prevent relapse.

Medical Extraction

Proper extraction is essential in cystic acne treatment. HBIO performs sterile extractions using specialized tools and trained technicians to avoid skin damage.

After extraction, the area is disinfected and soothed with anti-inflammatory serums to promote fast healing and prevent spreading.

Personalized Cystic Acne Treatment Process at HBIO Clinic

At HBIO Clinic, the acne treatment protocol is personalized, combining medical care with modern technology to treat cystic acne safely and effectively. Our five-step process includes:

Step 1: Dermatologist Consultation & Skin Analysis

• Examine acne severity and identify root causes using modern skin imaging devices.

Step 2: Cleansing & Disinfection

• Thorough cleansing and sterilization with acne-specific products to ensure a bacteria-free environment.

Step 3: Treatment Execution

• Customized combination of:

  • Medical extraction

  • Chemical peel

  • PDL therapy

  • Microneedling (when appropriate)

Step 4: Post-Treatment Soothing & Recovery

• Use of medical masks, blue light therapy, and healing serums to calm and regenerate the skin.

Step 5: Home Care & Progress Monitoring

• Detailed instructions on skincare, diet, and lifestyle. Continuous follow-up to adjust the treatment if necessary.

Read now: How to Identify Different Types of Acne and Their Causes

Cystic Acne Treatment Cost at HBIO Clinic

Treatment prices vary based on skin condition and personalized protocols. Estimated rates include:

• Chemical Peel: $27 – $61 per session
• PDL Light Therapy: ~$41 per session
• Microneedling (Skin Pen): $61 – $82 per session
• Medical Extraction: $6 – $12 per session

Images of Cystic Acne Treatment Results at HBIO Clinic

Real images of cystic acne before and after treatment at HBIO Clinic, showing effective outcomes through professional care

We hope this article helps you understand cystic acne, its causes, and safe treatment solutions. Contact HBIO Clinic today to receive expert dermatological consultation and a personalized treatment plan!

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