7 Cystic Acne Home Remedies that Really Work

Have you ever had large, red, painful breakouts? These breakouts can affect both men and women as young as 8 or as old 50. The face is the most common and concerning area of occurrence, but other problem areas can include the chest, back, upper arms and shoulders. I’m talking about cystic acne, which is way worse than just any old pimple — it’s actually the most severe form of acne possible.

Also called nodulocystic acne, a cystic acne is an intense form of acne that results in large, inflamed cysts and nodules that appear on the skin. Unlike other milder forms of acne, cystic acne is noticeably painful and occurs when oil and dead skin cells build up deep down in hair follicles or pores. Cystic acne is most common during puberty for young boys, but sadly, it can continue into the adult years, especially when there is a hormonal imbalance. For adult women, it’s common to experience cystic acne around their menstrual cycles, especially on the jawline and chin, which are the common areas for hormonally motivated breakouts.

• Mint

Almost any acne product will have mint in it. Mint leaves contain salicylic acid which works as an exfoliator. Furthermore, mint has soothing properties which help to heal the cysts. To make a paste, crush some mint leaves and then apply on the problem area. Wash off after 15-20 minutes.

• Aloe Vera

Aloe vera is commonly used in sunscreen lotions due to its curative, moisturizing, and calming properties. To treat cystic acne, extract the gel from an aloe leaf and rub on the affected area in a circular motion. Rinse off with cold/warm water after 5-10 minutes. Avoid using the gel on broken skin.

• Honey

Raw honey offers incredible antioxidant, antiseptic, and moisturizing properties. It reduces inflammation and aids in tissue healing. To get rid of cystic acne, dab some honey on the affected region. Allow it to stay for 10-15 minutes, then, clean with warm, tepid water. Alternatively, you can mix a half tablespoon of cinnamon powder with honey and apply the mask to the affected region. Wash off with tepid water after 15 minutes. When you use honey for a few weeks, it will bring back your positive self-image.

• Indian Lilac (Neem)

Indian lilac is a common Ayurvedic medicine for treating cystic acne. It has powerful healing properties that help to relieve acne symptoms like pain and inflammation. When you use Indian lilac externally, you detoxify and purify that area. You can either mash some leaves and apply on the affected area or make a decoction. Simply boil some leaves in hot water for 15 minutes, dip a cotton cloth in the solution, then, apply on the affected area.

• Turmeric

Apart from its culinary role, turmeric works as a natural antiseptic. Turmeric also contains curcumin compound which helps to relieve inflammation. To battle acne, create a paste by mixing one teaspoon of turmeric powder with unrefined sesame oil. Then, apply the paste on the affected area for 30-45 minutes. Alternatively, you can dissolve a half teaspoon of turmeric powder in warm milk and drink 2-3 times a day.

• Green Tea

Green tea comes with countless health benefits. Green tea fights a number of the underlying causes of acne like insulin resistance and inflammation. It also contains polyphenols which work as antioxidants with promising results.

A growing body of research has proven that green tea has Epigallocatechin-3-gallate which helps to reduce the redness caused by cystic acne. To prepare the concoction, steep some green tea in hot water for 10-15 minutes. Then, dip a cotton swab and apply on the problem area. Alternatively, you could drink 3-4 cups, of green tea, every day.

• Monitor Your Diet

To reduce acne breakouts, you should avoid consuming sugars, junk food, and complex carbohydrates which are likely to irritate your skin. Instead, take low-glycemic carbohydrates and non-dairy products with the exception of yogurt. Additionally, consume lots of fruits and vegetables as they are rich in antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals. Apart from following a good diet regime, you should drink plenty of water.

Disclaimer: The materials and the information contained on The Ugly Duckling Blog are provided for general and educational purposes only and do not constitute any legal, medical or other professional advice on any subject matter. 

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