A man showing a small sebaceous cyst on his neck, highlighting a patch of skin with a noticeable bump.
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Sebaceous cyst: why does it appear and how is it treated?

Small bumps under the skin can be bothersome, both aesthetically and physically, especially when they become visible or painful. Among these conditions, the sebaceous cyst is one of the most common.

This cyst, often benign, can nevertheless raise concerns, especially if it becomes infected or increases in size. Why do these sebaceous cysts appear? What are the triggering factors, and how can they be treated effectively?

In this article, we will answer these questions, explore treatment options, and help you better understand how to manage this skin condition.

What is a sebaceous cyst?

A man with a noticeable pimple on his face, indicative of a sebaceous cyst, looking thoughtfully into the distance.

A sebaceous cyst is responsible for the production of sebum, a natural oil that moisturizes the skin, when the glands are blocked. This cyst is often smooth to the touch and develops slowly. It usually forms on parts of the body rich in sebaceous glands, such as the face, neck, back and shoulders.

The contents of the sebaceous cyst consist of a thick, pasty substance called keratin, which is produced by skin cells. In most cases, this cyst is painless, but it can become problematic if it becomes infected or grows significantly.

The causes of the appearance of sebaceous cyst

Several factors can lead to the formation of a sebaceous cyst. Among the most frequent causes are:

  • Obstruction of sebaceous glands: The main cause of sebaceous cysts is the blockage of a sebaceous gland. This blockage can be caused by an accumulation of dead cells or an excess of sebum.
  • Skin trauma: An injury or shock to the skin can disrupt the sebaceous glands and lead to the formation of a cyst.
  • Genetic factors: Some people are more prone to cysts under the skin due to hereditary factors.
  • Stress: Although not directly responsible for the appearance of cysts, stress can cause hormonal imbalances, which could indirectly promote the formation of stress-induced cysts.

Symptoms and complications

A woman gently touches her ear with a finger, indicating concern over a sebaceous cyst.

In most cases, a sebaceous cyst is benign and does not cause pain. However, it is possible for it to become infected, especially when irritated or mishandled. Symptoms of an infected sebaceous cyst include:

  • Redness around the cyst
  • Swelling and tenderness
  • Pain when touched
  • Pus discharge if the cyst bursts

If you notice these signs, it is important to consult a health professional to avoid more serious complications. At this stage, extraction of the sebaceous cyst by a doctor may be necessary to prevent the spread of infection.

Treatments for sebaceous cyst

Management of a sebaceous cyst depends on the size, location and severity of the situation. Here are the main treatment options:

  • Observation and hygiene: If the cyst is small and does not cause discomfort, the doctor may recommend monitoring it. In some cases, sebaceous cysts resolve on their own over time. It is essential to maintain good skin hygiene to avoid infection.
  • Drainage or puncture: When the cyst becomes too large or bothersome, drainage can be considered. The doctor incises it and removes the contents. However, this method does not guarantee that the cyst will not reappear, as the cyst wall must also be removed.
  • Surgical extraction: Removal of the entire sebaceous cyst is often the most effective solution to prevent recurrence. The doctor makes a small incision to remove the entire cyst, including its wall. This method is quick and minimizes the risk of future infection.

Some preventive measures to consider

While it is difficult to completely prevent the formation of sebaceous cysts, some measures can be taken to reduce the risks:

  • Adopt a good skin care routine, especially for at-risk areas.
  • Avoid touching or squeezing cysts as this can lead to infection.
  • Consult a dermatologist for any persistent skin problems, especially if you are prone to skin cysts.

When to consult a specialist?

It is important to see a doctor if the sebaceous cyst becomes painful, swells quickly or becomes infected. At Clinique Brisson Careccia, our dermatology specialists are experienced in treating sebaceous cysts in people of all ages, especially the elderly.

We offer a personalized consultation to assess the best therapeutic approach according to your situation. Do not hesitate to make an appointment to discuss the options available to you.