Epidermoid Cysts/Sebaceous Cysts - Medtick
Medtick

Epidermoid Cysts/Sebaceous Cysts

What is it?

Swelling of skin like ‘large peas’ just below the skin surface.

  • Epidermoid cysts form when the top layer of skin (epidermis) grows into the middle layer of the skin (dermis).
  • The lesion may have no symptoms  but can  rupture of the epidermoid cyst can result in significant discomfort.
Most sebaceous type cysts and/or blocked glands calm down and disappear with in two weeks. If longer than two weeks , then please see your medical doctor for further investigation

Cause

  • Family history
  • Genetic disorders
  • Puberty
  • Sebaceous gland (that produce natural oils in the skin) becomes obstructed or blocked in some way.
  • Inflamed (hot red and swollen) hair follicles/Blocked hair follicles.
  • Injury to the skin
  • Poor hair care

Symptoms

  • Cyst appears as a dome-shaped, skin-colored growth that usually moves when touched and pressed upon?
  • Small opening in the center?
  • Smooth 1-2 centimetre swellings just below the skin surface?
  • Usually Isolated, occurs in one or two?
  • Run in family history?

Complications /Information to beware of/General tips:

This condition can lead to:

General tips

  • Warm/hot compression over the abscess will help to drain it.
  • One can put cold products (not direct ice- change of temperature can make it worst and cause frostbite) to help and cool it down and reduce inflammation.
  • Over the counter pain medicine like an Paracetamol or ibuprofen (if suitable, ask your pharmacist)
  • Do not ever try to squeeze the lumps in an effort to pop them out.
  • Do not ever try to poke the lumps using a needle to drain it out by yourself.
  • Squeezing or poking can lead to a more serious infection.

Please talk to your healthcare professional (i.e. Medical Doctor/Pharmacist) for further advice

Detailed Information

Please copy and paste any key words from the title: Epidermoid Cysts/Sebaceous Cysts in the following respective 'Medtick References and/or Sources' to find out more about the disease (this also may include diagnosis tests and generic medical treatments).

© Medtick - 2025. All Rights Reserved.