Skin cysts
A skin cyst is a closed sac beneath the skin. One common type, an epidermoid cyst, contains dead skin cells and often grows slowly. A lump may become tender, warm, or swollen if it becomes inflamed or infected.
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Skin cysts can occur on the scalp, face, neck, or trunk, and different types arise in different structures. Some grow slowly without causing trouble. A lump that catches during grooming or interferes with daily tasks may still deserve attention even without severe pain. [2]
Squeezing a suspected cyst can introduce infection or spread an existing infection. A sore or inflamed lump warrants prompt medical advice. Redness may be less obvious on darker skin, so changes in tenderness and swelling are also worth describing when you seek help. [2]
ALSO WORTH KNOWING [1]
Not every skin lump is a cyst. New or changing growths should be examined by a clinician. [1]
THE CLINICAL CONVERSATION
Have an unexplained skin lump examined rather than deciding it is a cyst from a picture. Confirmed cysts that cause no problems may not need treatment. Pain, infection, size, and interference with daily life can change the discussion about treatment or removal. [2]
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Removal treats the particular cyst, but new skin cysts can develop later. A procedure also leaves a scar, so discuss the reasons for removal and expected tradeoffs. [2]
Some epidermoid cysts have a small central opening and contain skin material. That feature may help an examination, but it does not identify every lump as a cyst. [1]
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References checked November 7, 2026. This content has not been clinically reviewed for Northguard.
