How it happens: Waldorf explains that, "Cysts occur when the sebaceous follicle [or your pore, in laymen�s terms] containing skin cells, sebum [or oil], bacteria and white cells ruptures." This spreads inflammation to the surrounding skin and then your body tries to wall that off. It becomes like a balloon of inflammation. "That's why you should not try to pop them -- you'll just spread the inflammation further," she says.
How to treat it in the short term: "The fastest way to treat individual cysts is with an injection of � corticosteroid by the dermatologist," Waldorf says. The cyst will usually go away in a couple days after being injected. If you can't get to a dermatologist, Waldorf says you can try a benzoyl peroxide or sulfur/resorcinol spot treatment, but know that it will take longer to disappear. (Try: Clean & Clear Maximum Strength Persa-Gel 10, $6.30 or Proactiv Refining Mask, $28.)
How to treat it in the long term: If you have frequent cystic acne, Waldorf says oral antibiotics and topical retinoids can be helpful. Other options include hormonal therapies like oral birth control pills. A dermatologist will be able to prescribe these medications and monitor your situation.
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Spider and Varicose Veins
Who is susceptible: Kauvar says spider and varicose veins are usually inherited (thanks mom!) and more than half of women get them. They can be triggered by pregnancy and hormones, or by standing for long periods of time.
How to prevent them: Keep your calf muscles toned, Kauvar says, because it helps send the blood in your legs back up to your heart. You can also try wearing compression hose if your legs hurt from standing.
How to treat them: "Sclerotherapy (injecting a chemical solution into the vein with a hair thin needle) is the main treatment, but lasers are used in specific circumstances," Kauvar says. If they are causing you pain (or you just want to get rid of them), talk to your doctor.
Sure, we all get the occasional breakout or dry patch of skin, but if you're suffering from a more serious hair or skin issue then you need serious help. That's why we asked Dr. Heidi Waldorf, director of Laser and Cosmetic Dermatology at the Mount Sinai Medical Center in New York City, Arielle N. B. Kauvar, M.D., director of New York Laser & Skin Care, Jerry Teuschler, Principal Scientist for Proctor and Gamble Beauty and Grooming Science, and Head & Shoulders hairstylist Ryan Trygstad to weigh in. They gave advice for the big issues facing TotalBeauty.com readers (per their outreach for help on our message boards and in letters to the editors), so read on for relief from your hair and skin woes.