How to prevent and soothe skin cysts: a simple guide

What is a cyst?

Cysts on your skin are quite common and can appear almost anywhere on your body. While they typically form just beneath the surface of your skin, they sometimes develop deeper.

Dr Pamela Tambini, Medical Director, Engage Wellness, Massachusetts, USA, explains that cysts are small sacs or pockets filled with fluid, semi-solid material, or even air. They form for different reasons - often depending on the type.

"Cysts in your skin can be caused by blocked ducts or glands, infections, hormonal imbalances, and injuries," says the double board-certified physician in internal medicine. "Long-term inflammation or skin conditions like acne can also lead to cyst formation."

Dr Viktoryia Kazlouskaya, Founder of Circle Clinic, New York City, USA adds that cysts can form when a hair follicle gets clogged, irritated, or inflamed.

"Common causes include - blocked hair follicles, ingrown hairs, and skin inflammation," she says.

How to ease discomfort from a cyst at home

Cysts can vary in how they look and feel. While many cysts are symptomless, some can become painful or bothersome - particularly if they grow larger, or are located in sensitive areas.

Tambini says: "You might notice a lump or bump that’s either firm or soft. If they become inflamed or infected, there may be redness, swelling, or tenderness."

"Large or deep cysts can rupture, causing severe inflammation or even infection," she says. "In rare cases, this could lead to serious complications such as sepsis."

Tambini advises you stop home treatments and see a doctor if you notice the following symptoms:

• Redness.

• Pus.

• Increasing pain.

However, there are simple steps you can take to reduce both the size and inflammation of minor, non-infected cysts.

Warm and cold compresses

Applying a warm compress to the area several times a day can help reduce swelling and discomfort, and help your cyst to heal quicker.

Use Epson salts

Epsom salt soaks and compresses may help relieve some symptoms associated with certain types of skin cysts.

Tambini says: An Epsom salt bath could help ease irritation and reduce swelling for cysts in sensitive areas.

How to help prevent a cyst

Use correct shaving techniques

Cysts are sometimes formed by ingrown hairs, which develop when a hair grows back into the skin.

Kazlouskaya advises practicing shaving techniques in areas you shave regularly to reduce your chance of ingrown hairs.

Avoid friction

Everyday skin injuries - even minor cuts and scrapes - or repetitive movements can cause skin cells to become trapped beneath the surface, causing a cyst.

For this reason, Tambini says: "Avoiding repetitive friction or trauma to your skin can reduce the chance of skin cysts forming."

Keep things clean

Keeping your skin clean and moisturised helps prevent blockages in your pores, which can lead to the formation of cysts.

Kazlouskaya recommends using antibacterial washes such as products containing benzoyl peroxide.

"This can help reduce bacteria and inflammation," she says.

Treat underlying conditions

According to Kazlouskaya, underlying health conditions can also play a role in the development of skin cysts.

"Long-term conditions like acne or hidradenitis suppurativa - an inflammatory skin condition - can make cysts more likely," she says. "It’s important to see a registered dermatologist for treatment."

Adopt healthier habits

While they may not cure or prevent skin cysts, certain lifestyle changes can help improve your overall skin health.

Tambini says that a balanced diet and managing stress levels might help reduce your chance of developing certain types of cysts.

How else can a cyst be treated?

If your cyst is tender, swollen, grows rapidly, or appears to be filled with pus, it's important to have it looked at by a doctor, as you may need medical treatment.

"Signs of infection - such as pus or high temperature - warrant medical attention," says Tambini. "Also, if your cyst is in a sensitive area or interfering with daily activities, it’s better to let a professional evaluate and treat it."

Doctors have several options depending on your cyst’s size and severity.

Tambini says that surgical removal might be recommended if your cyst keeps coming back or is particularly large. A small cyst drained by a doctor should heal within a week or two. Larger cysts or ones requiring surgical removal could take longer to fully clear up.

Cysts are common and often harmless, but knowing when to treat them and when to see a doctor is key. With proper care and attention, most cysts can be managed and, in many cases, prevented.