Unlike the simple pimple or whitehead, nodules form a dense, dome-like lesion or nodule which may also appear irregular. This lesion is red, swollen and usually affects not only the surrounding area of the skin but also deeper layers. If left unchecked, nodular acne can result to the destruction of tissue and produce scars.

Sometimes, nodules appear alongside cysts. When this happens, the condition is referred to as nodulocystic acne. Nodular acne is not only very unsightly, it can also be quite painful.

Treatments for nodular acne

People suffering from the nodular form of acne should not try self medication or self treatment. It is important that they seek the advice of a licensed dermatologist for proper diagnosis and prescription.

The best way to treat nodular acne is to address it immediately during its early stages. This is to prevent further infection and scarring. Antibiotics may be prescribed to help stop infection and prevent further break outs. Antibiotics also help minimize inflammations and ease the swelling of the skin.

If the patient does not respond to this treatment or if improvement is too slow, a doctor may prescribe a retinoid called isotretinoin. This is an oral medication that is usually required to be taken 1-2 times daily, with a course of treatment lasting anywhere from 15-20 weeks. Isotretinoin addresses the problem of excessive sebum production, effectively reducing the amount of oil produced by the skin and preventing clogged pores.

Isotretinoin, while quite effective, also has side effects. It is not prescribed to pregnant women because it has been known to cause birth defects. It also has certain contraindications such as itching, mouth and skin dryness, photosensitivity, muscle aches and nosebleeds. This explains why doctors often monitor their patients closely when administering this drug.

Hormonal treatment

Another method of treatment for nodular acne used exclusively for women is hormone therapy, usually in the form of low estrogen contraceptive pills and anti-androgen drugs like spironolactone. Like isotretinoin, these types of nodular acne treatments also help reduce the production of sebum.

Other forms of nodular acne treatment

A doctor may directly remove excess sebum and dead skin cells from the skin using sterile equipment. For enlarged lesions, an injection of cortisone may also be used. Cortisone works directly on the affected spot, minimizing the swelling and reducing the pain of the inflamed nodules.

During treatment for nodular acne, don't be impatient about the results. Nodular acne usually takes time to improve because the infection is found deeper in the skin and usually, the waste material produced is not readily discharged. Check with your doctor regularly and follow your treatment procedures faithfully.

Treating the scars

Once scarring has occurred, a doctor may recommend surgery or laser therapy. These can help minimize the appearance of scars and reduce the bumps. Sometimes, a treatment called dermabrasion may also be used in conjunction with laser treatment. In severe cases where scarring involves deep, depressed scars, fat transfer to the affected area may be performed.

Living with nodular acne

If you have nodular acne and are undergoing treatment for it, make sure to follow your doctor's recommendation for treatment, especially if it involves taking antibiotics. A complete course of treatment is essential to the success of a prescribed medication and therapy. If you must use a special diet or change some of your lifestyle and habits, do so.

Treatment for nodular acne may also involve a multi-pronged approach, using a main treatment (such as antibiotics or laser therapy) and supplementing it with a cleansing regimen. Specially formulated soaps and facial washes are commonly used to help reinforce the effect of the treatment.

The root cause of acne is still unknown, which makes a permanent cure highly unlikely. However, that doesn't mean that people who have nodular acne should allow themselves to be limited by this condition physically, mentally or socially. There are numerous options for the treatment of nodular acne and with the help of a doctor, it can be conquered.