10 Best Products For Cystic Acne

Cystic acne is an inflammatory skin condition that appears as deep red, purplish, or brown spots that are often hard and painful to the touch.

This condition is often linked to underlying health conditions, including hormonal imbalances, diet, and lifestyle habits, but cystic acne can also be caused by cosmetics, particularly prolonged use of products containing comedogenic ingredients.

Therefore, in this article, I will list the ten best skin care products for cystic acne, from exfoliating toners and serums to skin-soothing solutions.

However, before we continue, keep in mind that you can use these separately or combine some (but not all) of them together.

Paula’s Choice – BHA 2% Liquid Exfoliant

The BHA 2% Liquid Exfoliant is the best Paula’s Choice for cystic acne, due to being formulated with gentle and skin nourishing ingredient, such as green tea and hyaluronic acid, while also containing salicylic acid to effectively unclog pores and prevent the accumulation of acne-causing debris.

The toner has a rich and nourishing consistency and leaves a beautiful glow on the skin’s surface once absorbed.

Additionally, the BHA 2% Liquid Exfoliant is free of fragrance and alcohol, which makes it suitable for all skin types, including sensitive skin with cystic acne.

Paula’s Choice – Anti-Redness Exfoliating Solution

The Anti-Redness Exfoliating Solution with 2% Salicylic Acid by Paula’s Choice is another fantastic BHA for cystic acne as the formula is more potent than the exfoliant mentioned above and, therefore, is more suitable for those with stubborn acne.

The product is a lightweight, water-like solution containing 2% salicylic acid; however, the active ingredient is higher on the list in this formula, allowing for more potent and effective results.

Additionally, the Anti-Redness Exfoliating Solution also contains green tea and hyaluronic acid, which are excellent for keeping the skin hydrated and plump and calming redness and irritation caused by cystic acne.

However, because the formula is more potent than the rich and nourishing BHA 2% Liquid Exfoliant, it’s recommended to follow up with a non-comedogenic moisturizer to keep the skin balanced, hydrated, and protected.

Vivant Skin Care – 3% Mandelic Acid 3-in-1 Toner

The Vivant 3% Mandelic Acid 3-in-1 Toner is a lightweight toner and the best exfoliator for cystic acne as it works to soothe existing inflammation and eliminate congestion to prevent acne from forming down the line.

The powerful formula combines 3% mandelic acid with lactic acid to gently dissolve dead skin cells and purify the pores without causing any irritation or dryness.

Moreover, the added antioxidants help protect the skin from free radicals and environmental stresses, while niacinamide and witch hazel work together to brighten the complexion and refine enlarged pores.

This toner is excellent for all skin types that are prone to congestion, whiteheads, blackheads, and cystic acne and can be used up to three times a week for best results.

Vivant Skin Care – 8% Mandelic Acid Serum

The Vivant 8% Mandelic Acid Serum is a lightweight product and the best serum for cystic acne due to containing mandelic acid, an AHA that effectively dissolves acne-causing debris inside the pores without irritating the skin.

The water-light serum also contains niacinamide, a form of vitamin B3 with anti-inflammatory properties, as well as urea, a humectant that helps hydrate and retain moisture in the skin.

Together, these ingredients gently exfoliate and nourish the skin and soothe active acne of various severities, including cystic breakouts that are notoriously difficult to get rid of.

Vivant Skin Care – Derm-A-Gel

The Vivant Derm-A-Gel is a gentle yet effective retinoid for skin prone to clogged pores, cystic acne, and texture.

It contains vitamin A Propionate, a vitamin A derivative that promotes cellular turnover and unclogs pores by preventing the build-up of dead skin cells, excess oil, and acne-causing bacteria.

Additionally, the serum also contains lactic acid, niacinamide, and urea, which work together to exfoliate, nourish, and hydrate the skin while reducing the appearance of acne scars and hyperpigmentation left by old pimples.

This product is perfect for retinoid beginners looking to unclog pores and improve overall skin texture without dealing with excessive dryness or irritation, which is often the case with most retinoids.

Acne.org – 2.5% Benzoyl Peroxide

The Acne.org Benzoyl Peroxide is a simple, straightforward, and effective benzoyl peroxide gel that soothes the severity of cystic acne after the very first use.

The product can be applied to damp or dry skin, depending on the skin type and sensitivity, and can be used daily or up to three times a week to reduce existing acne and prevent new ones from forming.

The Acne.org Benzoyl Peroxide also contains fewer ingredients than other benzoyl peroxide products on the market, making it less likely to irritate the skin.

However, due to its active ingredient, the formula can be drying, which is why it is essential to use a non-comedogenic moisturizer to soften the skin and prevent dryness and irritation after applying benzoyl peroxide.

Benzac AC – 2.5% Benzoyl Peroxide Gel

Benzac AC is another effective 2.5% benzoyl peroxide gel treatment for cystic acne commonly found in pharmacies in Northern Europe.

It essentially has the same benzoyl peroxide strength and properties when it comes to soothing the severity of various forms of acne, including cystic breakouts.

However, the Benzac AC is available in more convenient packaging and might be easier to buy than the Acne.org Benzoyl Peroxide for those living in Europe.

Benzac AC also has a benzoyl peroxide cleanser, which the company (Galderma) advises to be used together with the gel; however, this may be too drying for the facial skin and might be a better option for addressing cystic acne in other areas of the body.

Galderma – Differin Gel

Differin Gel is a popular treatment for cystic acne that contains Adapalene, a strong over-the-counter retinoid, especially competent in reducing acne severity and improving hyperpigmentation.

However, while effective, Differin Gel is known to cause initial side effects, including flaking, peeling, dryness, and irritation, especially in the areas around the mouth.

Additionally, Differin Gel is also known to cause purging, which means your skin may break out more than usual when starting to use this product before it gets clearer.

Therefore, to avoid these side effects as much as you can, you need to introduce Differin slowly into your routine, follow it up with non-clogging moisturizers and sunscreens, and be extra patient until your skin gets used to it.

La Roche-Posay – Effaclar Adapalene Gel 0.1%

Similarly to Differin Gel, La Roche-Posay’s Effaclar Adapalene Gel 0.1% contains adapalene for cystic acne, a powerful retinoid that helps to regulate skin cell turnover and prevent the formation of comedones.

This gel formula is perfect for all skin types, as it’s lightweight and absorbs quickly into the skin without leaving any residue or causing any greasiness.

However, since adapalene can cause some dryness and irritation, it’s recommended to gradually increase the frequency as tolerated by the skin, starting at two to three times a week and building up to daily use.

Dermatica

Dermatica is an online dermatology subscription service that deals with the prescription of acne and anti-aging treatments such as tretinoin, prescription-strength azelaic acid, clindamycin, etc. 

The first time you sign up, you will receive a free online consultation where you can list your main skin concerns and provide photos of concern areas. 

Once Dermatica’s medical team assesses your unique skin needs, they will formulate an optimal treatment for you that will be sent out to your door every 28 days. 

You will also be able to cancel your subscription at any time or skip a month if you feel like it. 

Frequently Asked Questions

Can You Pop Cystic Acne?

Popping cystic acne can lead to skin rupture, creating an open wound that’s vulnerable to becoming colonized by bacteria and environmental pathogens that can enter the bloodstream and cause infections.

Additionally, the debris from the popped cyst, including bacteria and dead skin cells, can re-enter the pores and infect other areas or get pushed deeper into the dermis, where it will continue to cause inflammation, prolong the healing process, and likely lead to permanent scarring.

How Do You Get Rid Of Cystic Acne?

Adopting a consistent skincare routine, an anti-inflammatory diet, and healthy lifestyle habits are essential to effectively treating cystic acne.

This multifaceted approach can help regulate hormones, reduce inflammation, and prevent future breakouts. 

What Products Are Best for Cystic Acne?

For those battling cystic acne, incorporating products with salicylic acid, benzoyl peroxide, and adapalene into your skincare regime is highly recommended for effective treatment and prevention.

These ingredients work synergistically to unclog pores, reduce inflammation, and accelerate skin renewal. 

What Diet Helps Cystic Acne?

There isn’t a specifically tailored diet that will help with cystic acne; however, it is well known that nutritious food packed with antioxidants is beneficial for the body and helps it deal with inflammatory responses such as acne.

Your diet may not completely clear up your cystic acne; however, it’s always a good idea to eat healthy food as much as you possibly can as it can potentially help improve the issue.