How to Treat Under-the-Skin Acne: Causes, Treatments, and Prevention Tips

Under-the-skin acne, often referred to as cystic or nodular acne, can feel painful and look inflamed, but acne laser treatment offer targeted relief. Unlike surface pimples, these blemishes develop deeper within the skin and may linger for weeks or even months. Here’s what you need to know about why they occur and how they can be managed safely and effectively.

What is Under-the-Skin Acne?

Under-the-skin acne describes acne lesions that form beneath the skin’s surface. They may appear as:

• Large, firm lumps (nodules)
  
• Soft, fluid-filled lumps (cysts)
  
• Areas of redness and tenderness
  

These lesions often do not come to a “head” like typical pimples, making them more challenging to treat at home.

What Causes Under-the-Skin Acne?

Several factors can contribute to this type of acne:

• Excess oil (sebum) production
  
• Blocked pores from dead skin cells
  
• Overgrowth of acne-causing bacteria (Cutibacterium acnes)
  
• Hormonal fluctuations (especially during puberty, menstrual cycles, or stress)
  
• Genetics
  

How to Treat Under-the-Skin Acne

Treating under-the-skin acne requires patience and often a professional approach. Here are some treatment options:

1. Topical Prescription Medications

Topical retinoids (e.g., tretinoin, adapalene) help prevent clogged pores and encourage skin cell turnover. Other topical treatments may include antibiotics or benzoyl peroxide to reduce bacteria and inflammation.

2. Oral Medications

• Antibiotics: Oral antibiotics can reduce inflammation and bacterial growth in moderate to severe cases.
  
• Oral contraceptives: Certain birth control pills help regulate hormones that contribute to acne.
  
• Isotretinoin: For severe, resistant acne, isotretinoin may be prescribed under close medical supervision.
  

3. Corticosteroid Injections

Intralesional steroid injections can rapidly reduce inflammation and pain in large cystic lesions. This is a quick in-clinic procedure that helps prevent scarring.

4. Chemical Peels

Mild to moderate chemical peels containing salicylic acid or glycolic acid can help improve acne-prone skin by removing dead skin cells and unclogging pores.

5. Laser and Light Treatments

Acne laser treatment and light therapies can reduce oil production and inflammation, targeting acne-causing bacteria without damaging surrounding skin.

Important: Avoid squeezing or picking under-the-skin acne. This can worsen inflammation, cause scarring, and push bacteria deeper into the skin.

How to Prevent Under-the-Skin Acne

While not all cases can be prevented, the following steps may help:

• Use gentle, non-comedogenic skincare products
  
• Wash your face twice daily with a mild cleanser
  
• Avoid excessive scrubbing, which can irritate the skin
  
• Keep hair products away from your face
  
• Manage stress levels where possible
  
• Seek medical advice early if acne becomes persistent or painful
  

When to See a Doctor

If under-the-skin acne is painful, recurrent, or causing scarring, professional acne treatment in Singapore is advised. A doctor can assess your skin and recommend a personalised treatment plan.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not replace medical advice. Please consult a medical professional for an accurate diagnosis and personalised treatment plan.