The Difference Between Acne and Cyst
Acne is a skin abnormality that many of us suffer from (they love to form on the days when we have important events like hangouts, dates, or maybe the best one of all—job interviews). It's like they exist to cause annoyances in our lives. Unfortunately, some of us actually have chronic acne that can affect our appearance and self-confidence greatly.
It's crucial to figure out whether skin abnormalities are acnes or just something similar in appearance (like cysts) in order to get to the root of the problem.
People are often confused by the terms "acne," "cystic acne,"and "cyst" because people seem to think they can use them interchangeably. But the terms actually indicate different kinds of abnormalities. Acnes and cysts are two different types of skin condition people can suffer from but cystic acne refers to acne that can eventually lead to the formation of cysts.
But how can we identify which one's which? To begin, the term "acne" does not just refer merely to the hormonal acne that most of us suffer from since we've hit puberty. It covers all inflammation of the sebaceous glands (function is to produce oil). Hormonal acne is actually "cystic acne" (also affectionately known as acne vulgaris, pimple, zit, and spot). You will usually find cystic acne on parts of your body that has more sebaceous glands like your face, chest, back, and other areas that probably weren't the first to pop into your mind. Some unfortunate people actually get acne on their butts…not sure how many sebaceous glands we have in that area—I'll leave it at that.
There are other types of acne problems (caused by a skin condition known as "rosacea," cosmetics, and more). Cystic acne is just probably the most commonform of acne. It is important to be able to recognize the difference between acne and cyst because the two have very different implications. A cyst is actually a harmless tumor that has formed on your body. But it has a possibility of changing into something that can harm your body.
Though acne cysts are formed due to cystic acne problems, they can be something much more serious. Though acne cysts hurt when you touch it, the other cysts usually don't. They are smooth and soft to the touch. While we can see the ones that grow on our skin, they are actually capable of growing internally such as in your breast, on the surface of your kidney, and between your brain and cranium to name a few.
It's hard to notice the ones on the inside…mainly because you can't. But if you're not aching and hurting, you don't have much to worry about so don't freak out over something you can't see. If you identify a cyst on the surface of your skin, you should monitor it for any visible changes in size, color, texture, or anything else. Go see a doctor if you do notice anything. While some cysts go away naturally, others are a lot more stubborn and may require surgery to remove. The bottom line is, if you're bothered by any kind of skin abnormality, go see the doctor. They'll probably be able to make you feel better by telling you what it really is.
If you figure out what skin abnormalities you are suffering from, you can then target the core of the problem. Skin is a complicated organ and takes a lot of work to take care of because it's exposed to so many outside elements.
About the Author
Tia Carnley
Have you been confused about those terms as well? What experiences have you had with acnes and cysts? Discover more beauty tips and tricks...(show bio)
