Deep, painful acne care · Myeongdong, Seoul

Cystic Acne Treatment in Myeongdong, Seoul

Deep, tender lumps need medical care, not squeezing. A doctor-led plan calms flare-ups quickly and lowers the risk of lasting scars.

Same price as locals
English-speaking team
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Skin assessment station for acne consultation at Umi Clinic, Myeongdong — **Doctor-led plan** Painful cysts settle in days

Quick answer

What is cystic acne and how is it treated?

Cystic acne is the most severe form of inflammatory acne: large, painful lumps deep in the skin that form when blocked follicles rupture and inflammation spreads. Because they sit deep, they rarely come to a head and often leave scars.

Treatment is medical. A diluted steroid injection can shrink a painful cyst within days, while oral medicines such as antibiotics, hormonal therapy or isotretinoin (Accutane) control new cysts. Lasers and peels support the plan once inflammation is under control.

Medically reviewed by Dr. Yoon Jong-woo , Medical Director, Umi Clinic (Korean-licensed physician) · Updated October 2026. Results vary by person; the doctor explains risks, side effects and alternatives at consultation.

Consult: 15–30 min
Cyst injection: Settles in 2–5 days
Downtime: None to minimal
Results: Control over 2–6 months
Follow-up: Online or on return visits
Pricing: Same price as locals

Your visit

How Cystic Acne works at Umi

Every visit is doctor-led and explained in English, from the first skin check to aftercare.

Medical consultation
The doctor examines cysts, history and triggers, and checks previous treatments.
Calm active cysts
Painful cysts may be injected with a diluted steroid for fast relief.
Long-term control
Oral or topical medicines are prescribed when appropriate.
Support & aftercare
Gentle routine, sun protection and later scar prevention.

Before & after

How cystic acne comes under control

Reducing deep inflammation quickly and preventing new cysts protects the skin from the scarring cysts often leave.

Illustration of the mechanism — not a patient photo. Individual results vary; real before-and-after photos can be reviewed at consultation.

Days 2–5

Injected cysts shrink and pain eases.

Weeks 4–8

Medication reduces new deep breakouts.

Months 2–6

Skin stabilises; scar treatment can begin.

Is it right for you?

Who Cystic Acne suits best

Good fit if you…

Have deep, painful lumps that do not come to a head
Get acne along the jaw, chin, chest or back that scars
Have tried over-the-counter products without success
Want a medical plan you can continue at home

Consider another option if…

You only have small blackheads — a facial may be enough
You are pregnant — many medicines are not suitable
You have a fever or spreading redness — seek urgent care
You want to squeeze cysts at home — this worsens scarring

Recovery & results

What to expect, step by step

Same day
Injected cysts may feel less tense within 24 hours.
First week
Painful lumps flatten; redness lingers longer.
1–3 months
Medication reduces new cysts if taken consistently.
After control
Scar and mark treatment can be planned.

FAQ

Cystic Acne questions

Can I pop a cyst?

No. Cysts are deep and squeezing pushes inflammation further, increasing the chance of scarring and infection.

What is a cortisone injection for acne?

A small dose of diluted steroid injected into a cyst to reduce inflammation quickly. It is used for individual painful lumps, not for whole-face acne.

Is cystic acne hormonal?

Hormones are a common factor, especially along the jawline in adult women, but genetics and other factors also play a role.

Can I get treatment as a visitor?

Yes. The doctor can treat active cysts during your stay and suggest a plan you can continue with your doctor at home.

Do foreigners pay more?

No. International patients pay the same price as local patients at Umi Clinic.

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