Cystic acne is a more advanced case of a pimple. Millions of people around the world have some kind of acne or another, but cystic acne is one of the more severe types out there. It develops from a regular pimple, also known as a pustule, by rooting itself deeper within the skin and forming a painful sore known as a cyst. These cysts can vary in size and color from small and pink to large and a dark purple. In severe cases, multiple cysts in the facial area and on the body can be extremely painful.
While almost everyone is exposed to some kind of acne at some point in his or her life, cystic acne seems to be largely hereditary. If one of your parents had or has cystic acne, there is a higher percent chance that you will be exposed to some form of it as well. On the face may be the worst, but cystic acne can form on other parts of the body also. It commonly appears on the chest, legs, neck, shoulders, and back. These cysts can be covered by clothes, but be cautious: tight-fitting clothing can further irritate and dry out the skin, leading to more painful cysts. It is a good idea to try and wear loose fitting clothing when suffering from bodily acne.
When a person...