What is the most severe type of acne?
Acne conglobata is one of the most severe forms of acne. It involves many inflamed nodules that are connected under the skin to other nodules. It can affect the neck, chest, arms, and buttocks. It often leaves scars.
Table of Contents
What is really bad acne called?

Cystic acne is a type of inflammatory acne that causes painful, pus-filled pimples to form deep under the skin. Acne occurs when oil and dead skin cells clog skin pores. With cystic acne, bacteria also gets into the pores, causing swelling or inflammation. Cystic acne is the most severe type of acne.
What is cystic acne look like?
On the surface, cystic acne can look like large, red boils. Cysts, like nodules, reside deep underneath the skin’s surface. But because they’re filled with pus, cysts are softer than nodules. The pimples that define cystic acne burst open, often leading to infection.
Why do I get cystic acne?
Causes of Cystic Acne Cystic acne occurs when bacteria, dead skin cells, and sebum (the substance that makes your face feel oily) get trapped beneath the skin’s surface and become infected. This leads to a large, swollen cyst (bump) that can hurt just to touch.

Can you pop cystic acne?
Do not try to pop, pick, or squeeze a cystic pimple. It may be tempting, but popping a pimple can introduce more bacteria to the pore, slow healing, drive the infection deeper into the skin, and increase the chance of scarring.
Does cystic acne go away?
Usually, cystic acne can improve with age. However, the stubborn and painful bumps won’t go away on their own. If you suspect you have cystic acne, your dermatologist is your best line of defense. They can prescribe the medication necessary to help clear your skin.
What causes cystic acne?
What triggers cystic acne?
Hormonal changes, including those caused by menopause, menstruation, pregnancy, and certain medical conditions like polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS), can be triggers for cystic acne.
Can I pop cystic acne?
Should I pop a pimple inside my nose?
Is it safe to pop a pimple inside the nose? Picking, scratching, or attempting to pop the pimple can make the pore more vulnerable to bacterial infection. Allowing the pimple to heal without disrupting it will prevent a more serious condition from developing.