Nodular acne is the most severe form of acne and the most likely to result in acne scarring. Because it is so serious, nodular acne is very likely to require aggressive treatment.
Nodular acne is a severe form of cystic acne. It is the worst type of acne.
Nodular acne consists primarily of comedones that are much bigger and may be painful. Nodular acne pimples can last for months. Nodules can grow hemorrhagic or suppurative, and generally show up as hard, large bumps beneath the skin's surface.
In a case of severe nodular acne, they may develop as tender, red, swollen bumps in the skin. Squeezing or attempting to pop these blemishes only makes the damage to the skin more severe and longer-lasting, and can result in scarring.
Nodular acne consists of larger blemishes, larger than a pencil eraser. They may be above or beneath the skin.
Nodular acne treatments are prescribed by a dermatologist or doctor. Oral antibiotics like tetracycline, doxycycline, minocycline, or erythromycin may be prescribed. These antibiotics destroy the bacteria, P. acnes, that cause the infections that form pimples.
Isotretinoin (Accutane) may also be prescribed. In severe cases, minor surgery may be needed to relieve the swelling associated with nodular acne, but this is relatively uncommon.
Learn which product is considered to be the very best acne treatment!