What is a skin cyst?
A skin cyst is a raised bump on the skin that can be red and irritated. Some epidermoid cysts are painful to touch, while others are not. These types of cysts usually feel like a lump just under the skin.
What causes a skin cyst? Since the pore is blocked, the body tries to break down the blockage. As part of the body’s natural response, a white substance forms within the skin cyst. These cysts can be drained by pressing on them, but that’s not always the case. If the cyst is not inflamed or infected, it will heal up after it is drained. If it is inflamed, it may be called an abscess. The cyst may rupture on its own, which will produce a painful bump. If this happens, a dermatologist should look at it.
In some cases, a person may find it difficult or painful to drain the cyst, or it may have become infected. A dermatologist can surgically remove a cyst, which will usually prevent its recurrence. A small scar will result. If the epidermoid cyst was infected, the dermatologist will prescribe medication to prevent the spread of the infection and help the body heal.
