What Causes Skin Cysts? Common Causes, Types and When to Consider Removal

Finding a lump in your body can be quite disturbing, but it is natural to feel this way. In any case, you do not have to worry much about it because the majority of the cysts are harmless. They are little sacs containing fluid or other material, which may sometimes enlarge or cause discomfort but generally don’t pose a serious threat.

​Understanding what causes skin cysts will help you identify the various causes of their formation and determine when medical attention may be necessary.

​In this blog, we’ll explore the common causes and types of skin cysts, their different types, and when to consider professional help for proper treatment and healthier skin.

​Common Causes of Skin Cysts

​There are various causes of skin cysts, and it is important to understand them for appropriate treatment and diagnosis. Common causes of skin cysts include:​

• Blocked Hair Follicles: A cyst may form when there is a blockage in the hair follicle, preventing the normal shedding of dead skin cells and hair. The result of this blockage is the buildup of keratin, which is a type of protein in the skin. This leads to the formation of a cyst.
• ​Sebaceous Gland Disorders: The sebaceous gland secretes oil to help keep the skin moisturised. The blocking or overproduction of oil by the sebaceous glands results in sebaceous cysts.
• ​Inflammation and Infections: Infections that cause inflammatory skin conditions or any other bacteria-related diseases may lead to the formation of cysts. The body’s reaction to infection may result in the creation of a cystic structure.
• ​Genetic Tendency: Some people might be genetically sensitive to the formation of particular kinds of cysts. Having knowledge about family medical history could help determine one’s risk.

Types of Skin Cysts and How to Treat Them

​Consider the following various types of skin cysts:

​Epidermoid cysts

​Epidermoid cysts are amongst the most common skin cysts. They form when skin cells are trapped under the surface layer of the skin. These skin cells are normally shed naturally and continue to produce keratin, which slowly forms a small lump.

​Commonly found on: Face, neck, chest, and back

​Symptoms:

• ​A firm, rounded lump beneath the skin
• A tiny dark spot or opening at the centre
• Usually painless and slow-growing
• It may become red, swollen, or tender if inflamed or infected

​Treatment:

​Most epidermoid cysts do not need treatment unless they cause discomfort or concern. If a cyst becomes painful, inflamed, infected, or affects your daily life, your doctor may recommend surgical removal based on its condition.

​Sebaceous cysts

​Sebaceous cysts are lumps that form under the skin when an oil-producing gland in the skin becomes blocked. The term is generally used to refer to epidermoid cysts, even though sebaceous cysts are not very common.

​Commonly found on: Scalp, chest, face, back

​Symptoms:

• ​A smooth, round lump under the skin
• Usually soft and slightly movable when touched
• May turn red, swollen, or sore if inflamed or irritated

​Treatment:

Small cysts may not require immediate treatment if they are not causing any discomfort. Warm compresses may help ease minor discomfort, but they will not necessarily eliminate the cyst. If it continues, becomes painful, or shows signs of infection, your doctor may recommend appropriate treatment or surgical removal, depending on its condition.

​Trichilemmal Cysts

​Pilar cysts are another name for trichilemmal cysts. Usually found on the scalp, they grow from hair follicles. They may run in families, grow slowly, and are usually harmless.

​Commonly found on: Scalp

​Symptoms:​

• Firm, smooth lumps under the skin
• Usually painless and slow-growing
• May occur as multiple cysts, particularly in people with a family history

​Treatment:

​If the cyst grows, becomes painful, or affects your appearance, your doctor might suggest surgery to remove it. Complete removal of the cyst will decrease the chances of recurrence.

​Dermoid Cysts

​Dermoid cysts are genetic and develop slowly over time; hence, you might not know about their existence until you are older. These kinds of cysts may include hair or skin. They rarely cause pain, except when they become big and put pressure on other nearby structures.

​Commonly found on: Face, scalp, ovaries

​Symptoms:​

• A slowly growing lump beneath the skin
• Normally painless
• May become more noticeable as it increases in size

​Treatment:

​If the cyst grows, causes discomfort, or affects your appearance, then your doctor may recommend surgical removal. Complete removal of the cyst helps reduce the risk of recurrence and prevents further complications.

​Pilonidal cysts

​A pilonidal cyst develops when hair gets embedded under the skin near the tailbone and between the buttocks. Friction, prolonged sitting, or ingrown hairs can be contributing factors in developing a pilonidal cyst.

​Although they might begin as a harmless pit that doesn’t cause any discomfort, they may become very uncomfortable if they become irritated or infected. If such infections arise, the cyst may become swollen and painful. However, it requires urgent treatment.

​Commonly found on: Top of the buttock crease (near the tailbone)

​Symptoms:

• ​A small dimple or opening in the skin near the tailbone
• Redness, swelling, or tenderness around the affected area
• Pus or fluid discharge if the cyst becomes infected
• Pain or discomfort when sitting or walking
• Fever in cases of more serious infection

​Treatment

​If the case is mild, you can treat it by applying warm compresses and keeping it clean and dry. If there is any infection, your healthcare professional may suggest that you have it drained to reduce symptoms.

​In cases of recurring or recurrent pilonidal cysts, it might be recommended that you undergo minor surgery in London to remove the cyst.

​When to Consider Skin Cyst Removal

​Skin cysts are usually harmless, but removal may be recommended in the following situations:​

• Pain or discomfort: If the cyst is causing continuous pain or discomfort.
• Repeated inflammation or infection: When the cyst becomes inflamed or infected on multiple occasions.
• Continued growth: If the cyst continues to grow in size.
• Recurrence: In case the cyst returns after previous treatment.
• Cosmetic concerns: When the cyst appears on visible areas, such as the face, neck, or scalp, and affects appearance.
• Daily activities: When the cyst is close to a joint, under clothing, or on a pressure point and restricts daily activities.
• Redness or fluid discharge: If there is any redness, swelling, soreness, or leakage from the cyst.

​Seeking medical advice can help you choose the appropriate treatment and determine whether removal is necessary.

​Skin Cyst Removal Options and What to Expect

​Infected skin cyst removal depends on the cyst’s size, location, and whether it is infected or causing discomfort. Small, painless cysts often do not require treatment and can be safely monitored or left alone. If a cyst becomes painful, grows larger, or keeps coming back, a doctor may recommend removing it.

​Most skin cysts can be removed through a minor procedure using local anaesthetic to numb the area. The doctor makes a small cut and removes the cyst, including its wall, to reduce the chance of it returning. If the cyst is infected or swollen, the doctor may treat the infection first before considering removal.

After the procedure, you may experience mild swelling, tenderness, or discomfort for a few days. Keeping the area clean and following your doctor’s aftercare instructions can help it heal properly. The location and size of the cyst influence healing and scarring.

​Avoid squeezing or draining a cyst at home, as this can cause infection and make the problem worse. If a cyst becomes painful, red, swollen, or starts leaking fluid, seek medical advice.

Wrapping Up

Skin cysts are common and usually harmless, but some may grow, become painful, or form an infection. Understanding their causes and types can help you recognise when to seek medical advice and whether treatment is needed. 

While small cysts may not need removal, a doctor can recommend suitable treatment if a cyst causes discomfort or keeps coming back. Avoid squeezing cysts at home, as this can lead to infection and scarring.

Dr Salim Aesthetic Medicine offers cyst removal treatments in London, backed by over 20 years of experience in the field. A professional assessment can help determine the most suitable treatment option for your cyst.

​Frequently Asked Questions

​Do cysts go away on their own?​

Some cysts may shrink or disappear without treatment, while others may continue or grow. If a cyst becomes painful, swollen, or red, consult a doctor for proper treatment.​

Can a cyst turn into cancer?

​Most skin cysts are benign (non-cancerous) and rarely become cancerous. However, any lump that grows rapidly or changes in appearance should be examined by a doctor.

​Can cysts come back after removal?

​Yes, cysts can return when the entire cyst sac is not removed. Complete removal of the cyst wall reduces the risk of recurrence of such cysts, particularly epidermoid and pilar cysts.

​Does bad hygiene lead to skin cysts?

Hygiene has no direct impact on the formation of most skin cysts. They tend to occur when the skin cells get trapped underneath the skin layer. Sometimes, cysts can also be caused by hair follicles. However, keeping your skin clean is helpful.

​Can an untreated cyst cause complications?

Skin cysts are mostly harmless and do not need treatment. But sometimes, they can be enlarged, inflamed, or infected. Whenever you have a cyst that is painful, red, swollen, and even produces pus, you should consult a doctor immediately.

​Is it possible to avoid getting skin cysts?

​Not all skin cysts can be prevented because many form due to changes under the skin. Avoid squeezing or picking at cysts, as this can cause inflammation or infection. If cysts keep returning, a doctor can help identify the cause and recommend suitable treatment.