How can I get rid of acne cysts?

Dr. Irwin
December 14, 2009
Hi Dr. Irwin. I love your site and it is very helpful in my time of need. I love the Menopause and your skin resource, however I didn't quite figure out how to combat my acne cysts. I am 39yrs old and had a total hysterectomy 6 years ago and have since been plagued with acne cysts. They are painful and leave awful marks on my face. What can you recommend? Thank you, Chris

Thank you –  I’m glad you like our site! It’s really been fun.  I have some ideas about your cysts, but you’ll still need a good dermatologist to help you. 

After a total hysterectomy, you will generally have fewer "female" hormones.  All women have "male" hormones too and after your surgery your relative ratio of "male" to "female" hormones has changed.  This change is probably the reason for the increase in your cysts.  Ask your doctor to check your free testosterone level and your DHEA level (both a blood test).  If they are elevated or at the high range of normal, a very safe medication called spironolactone may be helpful for you. 

 Also, individual cysts can be injected with a low strength steriod antiinflammatory which will make them resolve in 2-3 days instead of 2-3 weeks.  Ask your dermatologist about that also!

Good luck.  Dr. I

Dr. Brandith Irwin, MD

Ask me your skincare question!

Hi, I’m Dr. Irwin. I believe that consumers deserve a medically trained and unbiased skin care advocate.

  • All our content is written and researched by myself.
  • My medical office in Seattle has treated thousands of patients for 15+ years.
  • This site is not affiliated or financially tied to any product, treatment or device.
Ask Me Something
SkinTour Skincare
One of the best investments in your skin is your daily skincare. Why? Because you can prevent many problems with blotchy skin color, lack of glow, texture, some types of acne, and fine lines with good skincare products. You can also correct some of these problems with effective skincare products. Great skincare is often more expensive because quality ingredients are expensive. Some companies spend on research/development which benefits all of us and adds to the cost. Are they worth it? In general - yes! I have handpicked some of what I consider to be the best skin care products, and offer them for sale on SkinTour's shop. This is based on my team and I's testing and research at our clinic. Many of the products are in my own regimen. What could be better than using skin care products a dermatologist uses?!
Browse Shop