A cyst is a benign, encapsulated lesion that consists of a fluid sac which contains liquid, or semi-fluid material. It can vary in shape, size and location. The most common types of cysts are reviewed here.

What is a Sebaceous Cyst?

A sebaceous cyst is a non-cancerous, closed sac that typically forms just beneath the skin. It’s filled with a thick, yellowish substance called sebum—a mixture of fats, dead skin cells, and oils produced by sebaceous glands to lubricate the skin and hair. When the duct of a sebaceous gland becomes blocked, the sebum can accumulate and form a cyst.

Causes:

• Blockage of Sebaceous Glands: The most common cause is a blockage of the duct that allows sebum to flow to the surface of the skin.
• Trauma or Injury: Sometimes a cyst can form after an injury to the skin, like a cut or bug bite, which leads to clogged pores.
• Genetics: Some people are more prone to developing sebaceous cysts due to their genetic makeup.

Appearance and Symptoms:

• Size: Sebaceous cysts can vary in size, from as small as a pea to as large as a golf ball.
• Texture: They are typically firm, smooth, and moveable under the skin. They may appear with a dark spot in the center, which is the opening of the blocked duct.
• Painless: Most sebaceous cysts are painless, but if they become infected, they can become red, swollen, and tender.

Differences Between Sebaceous Cysts and Pimples:

• Sebaceous Cyst:
  • Develops slowly and doesn’t usually hurt unless infected.
  • Usually occurs from blocked sebaceous glands.
  • Filled with thick, oily sebum.
  • Can grow larger over time.
  • Treatment often involves removal by a doctor if needed.
• Pimple (Acne):
  • Develops more rapidly due to blocked pores filled with oil, dead skin cells, and bacteria.
  • Typically resolves on its own or with topical treatment.
  • Causes inflammation, redness, and pus if infected.

Treatment:

1. Drainage or Removal: If the cyst is causing discomfort or cosmetic concern, a healthcare professional may drain it or remove it surgically.
2. Steroid Injections: In some cases, steroid injections may be used to reduce inflammation.
3. Antibiotics: If the cyst becomes infected, antibiotics may be prescribed to treat the infection.

Reference Studies/Articles:

• American Academy of Dermatology (AAD): Offers resources on the types of cysts, their treatments, and causes. (https://www.aad.org)
• Mayo Clinic: Provides detailed overviews of sebaceous cysts and their management. (https://www.mayoclinic.org)
• NIH National Library of Medicine: Research articles on skin cysts, sebaceous cysts, and their management. (https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov)

 

Treatment Options for Sebaceous Cysts:

1. At-Home Care (For Small, Non-Infected Cysts):
   • Warm Compresses: Applying a warm compress to the cyst can sometimes help it drain naturally. Do this for 10–15 minutes a few times a day to promote the drainage of the cyst. However, don’t attempt to pop or squeeze it, as this can cause infection or scarring.
   • Good Skin Hygiene: Keep the area clean and avoid squeezing, as this could push the contents deeper or lead to infection.
2. Topical Treatments:
   • Antibiotic Ointments: If the cyst becomes infected (red, swollen, painful), an over-the-counter antibiotic ointment like Neosporin can help reduce infection and promote healing. However, if the infection is severe, you might need a prescription from your doctor.
3. Steroid Injections:
   • In some cases, if a cyst is inflamed but not infected, a doctor might inject a steroid directly into the cyst to reduce swelling and inflammation. This does not always remove the cyst, but it can reduce its size and make it less noticeable.
4. Drainage (by a Doctor):
   • Incision and Drainage (I&D): For larger or infected cysts, a healthcare provider may perform an incision and drainage procedure. This involves making a small cut in the cyst to allow the sebum and any other material to drain out. However, the cyst wall may remain, meaning it could recur over time.
5. Surgical Removal:
   • Complete Cyst Removal: If the cyst is persistent, recurrent, or causing significant issues, the most effective treatment is surgical removal. This involves removing both the contents of the cyst and the cyst wall. It’s typically done under local anesthesia in a healthcare setting. This is the only way to prevent the cyst from returning.
6. Antibiotics (For Infected Cysts):
   • If the cyst becomes infected (it might get red, swollen, and painful), you may need oral antibiotics. A doctor might prescribe these to clear up the infection before proceeding with drainage or removal.
   • Common antibiotics include Cephalexin or Doxycycline, depending on the severity of the infection.

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When to See a Doctor:

• Pain or Redness: If your cyst becomes painful, red, and inflamed, it may be infected, and you should see a doctor.
• Rapid Growth: If the cyst suddenly grows significantly in size or changes color, it may be a sign of infection or another issue.
• Recurring Cysts: If sebaceous cysts keep forming in the same area or you have multiple cysts, it’s a good idea to see a dermatologist to discuss long-term solutions.

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Prevention:

While you can’t always prevent sebaceous cysts, there are some ways to minimize their recurrence:

• Good Skin Care: Keep your skin clean and exfoliate regularly to help prevent the buildup of dead skin cells and oils.
• Avoid Squeezing Cysts: As tempting as it may be, squeezing or popping cysts can introduce bacteria and cause an infection, or even make the cyst return.
• Use Non-Comedogenic Products: Opt for skincare products that are labeled “non-comedogenic,” meaning they won’t clog pores.
• Manage Oil Production: If you have oily skin, use oil-free skincare products to reduce the likelihood of clogged pores.

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Consulting a Dermatologist:

If you’re unsure about how to proceed, or if the cyst is causing distress, visiting a dermatologist can provide more personalized advice. They can offer treatments like:

• Laser therapy: In some cases, laser removal of cysts is an option for reducing recurrence and scarring.
• Cyst injection: In some situations, cysts can be injected with medications that help prevent recurrence, although this may not be as common as surgical removal.