I suffer from cystic acne on my chin area. The kind that is swollen, deeply embedded and painful to the touch (or even without touch). It has a genetic component to it. Hormones, oily skin (which can be a sign of too much male hormone e.g. testerone) and diet. Dairy and sugar are know to be common triggers.
Since it is partly due to genetics, I can't completely eliminate it but learn to dampen the effects. Here are some things you can try. All based on your personal lifestyle, budget and time. And results vary between individuals.
- frequent steaming (Watson's has inexpensive facial steamer)
- clay mask ( I like Aztec Indian Clay Bentonite in powder form)
- keep your skin hydrated (light weight non-fragrance serum, nothing heavy or creamy)
- exfoliatant suitable for your skin type
- facial shaving (rid the dead skin cells)
- retinol and bha (I like the non fragranced product from Paula's Choice)
- getting enough sleep
- drink plenty of water
- maintain low stress level
- exercise
Found this to be a pretty good list, even though the title is geared towards cystic acne.
http://www.annmariegianni.com/9-natural ... stic-acne/