Sebaceous and epidermoid cysts are small lumps that sit just beneath the skin. Many people refer to them as “sebaceous cysts”, but most are actually epidermoid cysts. These growths are generally harmless and slow-growing, but they can sometimes become red, sore, or infected, or simply be a cosmetic concern.
Inside, they are filled with keratin, a natural protein found in skin, hair, and nails. If the cyst is squeezed, it can release a thick, white substance. Cysts often appear on the face, neck, chest, or back, but they can form anywhere on the body.
For most people, they cause little more than mild inconvenience. For others, they can be uncomfortable or affect confidence, which is when removal becomes a good option.
What Causes Sebaceous Cysts
Understanding what causes sebaceous cysts can help you decide whether to leave them alone or have them removed.
- Blocked hair follicles are one of the most common causes. This can happen when oil, dead skin cells, or debris build up under the skin.
- Skin injuries such as cuts, acne, or surgical wounds can trap skin cells beneath the surface, creating the start of a cyst.
- Once skin cells are trapped, they multiply and form a sac, which then produces keratin. Over time, the sac fills with this material.
- Genetics can play a role, and some people naturally develop more cysts than others.
- Chronic skin conditions like acne can also make cysts more likely to appear.
Most cysts are harmless, but if they become infected, rupture, or grow large enough to be noticeable, it is worth discussing treatment with your doctor.
How to Get Rid of Epidermoid Cysts
How you approach how to get rid of epidermoid cysts depends on whether they are causing symptoms or concerns.
Conservative Care at Home
If the cyst is small, painless, and not inflamed, it may not need treatment. A warm compress can help ease any discomfort and encourage natural drainage if it is already breaking down, but it will not remove the cyst completely.
Avoid squeezing or popping a cyst yourself. This often makes things worse by causing infection or increasing the chances of the cyst returning.
Medical and Surgical Treatment
If the cyst is painful, growing, or in a noticeable place, medical treatment is the most effective solution.
- Incision and drainage may relieve pain quickly but the cyst may come back if the sac remains.
- The entire sac is removed during surgical excision. This is usually a short simple procedure and done under local anesthetic.
- Minimal excision techniques may be used to reduce scarring while still removing the sac.
- Antibiotics may be given if the cyst is infected, either before or after removal.
For more details on these procedures, you can read our cyst removal page.
When to Consider Cyst Removal
It might be time to see a doctor if:
- The cyst is red, warm, or painful
- It has increased in size or changed in appearance
- It is causing discomfort or difficulty with movement
- It’s in a visible place and it affects your confidence
- It has ruptured or is leaking fluid
Our Melbourne clinics offer epidermoid cysts removal and sebaceous cysts removal with a focus on gentle techniques, minimal discomfort, and the best cosmetic results possible.
Risks and Recurrence
Cysts can grow back if the entire sac is not removed. While the risks of treatment are low, they can include mild scarring, infection, or bleeding. Choosing a skilled doctor who uses precise techniques can help keep these risks to a minimum and support faster healing.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do sebaceous cysts go away on their own?
Some small cysts may reduce in size over time, but most remain until they are removed.
What is the difference between a sebaceous cyst and an epidermoid cyst?
True sebaceous cysts form from oil glands and contain sebum. Epidermoid cysts form from skin cells and contain keratin. In everyday language, people often use “sebaceous cyst” for both types.
Is it safe to pop a sebaceous cyst at home?
No. This can push bacteria deeper into the skin, cause infection, and make the cyst more likely to return.
Can cysts keep growing if left untreated?
Yes, they may slowly get bigger, especially if irritated or inflamed.
What should I do if a cyst becomes red, warm, or painful?
This often means it is inflamed or infected. You should see a doctor as soon as possible for assessment and treatment.
Will removing a cyst leave a scar?
Most cyst removals leave a small scar, but careful surgical techniques can make it as discreet as possible.
Can cysts come back after removal?
If the entire sac is removed, recurrence is unlikely. However, new cysts can still form in other areas over time.
Is cyst removal painful?
The procedure is usually done under local anaesthetic, so you should not feel pain during removal. Mild soreness afterward is common but short-lived.
The vast majority of sebaceous/epidermoid cysts are benign, but you do not have to suffer discomfort, unwanted cosmetic changes, or infections. We at the Advanced Skin Doctors offer safe and effective cyst removal treatments for Melbourne, including epidermoid cyst removal and other cyst removal treatments. Our experienced doctors prioritise precision, comfort, and results that restore confidence in your skin.
