Top 10 Cystic Acne Treatments

WHY YOU NEED IT: Salicylic acid is a BHA that helps remove excess oil, slough off dead skin cells, and dry out pimples, making it an excellent addition to any acne routine. Using a cleanser formulated with the powerhouse ingredient is an easy way to incorporate it into your regimen without adding too many steps.

HELPFUL TIP: Because salicylic acid can cause dryness, we suggest using this cleanser only once daily until your skin adjusts.

WHAT IT DOES: Most acne spot treatments merely treat surface blemishes, but this one is specially formulated to tackle those painful, under-the-skin bumps you can't see. When used immediately upon discovering a new cyst, most users experienced a 50% quicker recovery.

BEST FOR: For cysts that are bad enough to need a cortisone shot, try this first—you won't be disappointed.

WHY WE LOVE IT: "I've tried tons of products for my cystic acne, from harsh, skin-burning retinol to new birth control. This is the one thing that really tackled those deep, invisible cysts, and I literally saw the results overnight. It also costs just $19, which is far less than similar products I've seen."

LOVED FOR: Formulated with a blend of B vitamins and amino acids, you won't find any scary, skin-drying ingredients in this product.

WHAT IT DOES: Murad's game-changing spot treatment will reduce blemish size and redness in as little as four hours. No need to cancel your plans tonight.

HELPFUL TIP: Feel free to wear it under your makeup—it won't pill or peel.

BEST FOR: A cost-friendly alternative to a leading topical prescription

USERS SAID: “This product has to be one of the best beauty products I've ever used. I apply it as a spot treatment at night to any blemishes that pop up, and by morning, they are gone. To this day, I'm still blown away by it.”

WHY YOU NEED IT: Benzoyl peroxide works by killing acne-causing bacteria deep within the skin, which is why it's such a no-brainer for cystic bumps. This one from Neutrogena rings up under $10, and trust us—the results are worth way more.

HELPFUL TIP: Try combining this with a salicylic acid spot treatment. Because the two ingredients tackle acne in different ways, using them together can produce some serious skin-clearing results.

BEST FOR: Clearing cystic acne for good

HELPFUL TIP: A little goes a long way with this product! Dab on as a spot treatment and leave on overnight to take care of the toughest of acne.

WHY YOU NEED IT: Mild to moderate acne-prone skin, meet your match in this dual action blemish treatment that reduces breakouts in 3 days without causing irritation. 

WHAT IT DOES: Micro-exfoliating LHA evens out skin texture to give you clear, blemish-free skin.

WHY YOU NEED IT: Get the effects of a facial without having to leave your house with this mask.

BEST FOR: Cleansing deep into your pores once a week

LOVED FOR: This powerhouse product comes at an unexpectedly low price.

FUN FACT: Differin Gel contains the first FDA-approved, prescription-strength, retinoid acne treatment available without a prescription.