Cystic Acne: What Is It and How Do You Treat It?

During puberty, levels of circulating androgen hormones increase dramatically, which causes an increase in sebum production; skin cells also begin to grow quicker. Some medications , including lithium , antiseizure drugs, and corticosteroids, can cause acne. No one is sure of the exact cause, but hormones called androgens play a part. Both of these options can be expensive. Long-term treatment of acne in women can involve the birth control pill, which suppresses sebum production. Cystic acne is characterized by long-standing, painful nodules of the face, back of neck, chest, and back. Vitamin A orally or by injection has been used for acne with variable effects.