What is cystic acne characterized by?

Cystic acne is characterized by painful, inflamed cysts that form beneath the skin. These cysts are often large, swollen, and can be very sensitive to touch. Unlike other types of acne, such as whiteheads or blackheads, which are generally superficial and less painful, cystic acne involves deeper layers of the skin and is a more severe form of acne. The inflammation associated with cystic acne can lead to scarring and requires targeted treatment to address not just the symptoms but the underlying causes, which often involve a combination of hormonal changes and bacteria.

The other options focus on milder forms of acne or conditions that do not relate specifically to cystic acne, which further clarifies why option B accurately describes this condition.