Skin cyst
Why do epidermoid and pilar cysts form?
Some of the cells in the top layer of skin produce keratin, a protein that gives skin its strength and flexibility. Normally, these cells move upto the surface of the skin as they start to die, so they can be shed.
But sometimes,these cellscan move deeper into your skin and multiply, forming a sac. They secrete keratin into the middle of the sac, whichforms athick, yellow paste. This can ooze out of the cyst if it is burst.
Anyone can develop a skin cyst, but you're more likely to have one if you've gone through puberty, you have a history of acne , or youhave injured the skin (if you've damaged a hair follicle, for example).
Skin cysts are not contagious.
Medically Reviewed by a doctor on 21 Dec 2018
Introduction
A skin cyst is a fluid-filled bump lying just underneath the skin. It's common and harmless, and may just go away without treatment.
What does a cyst look like?
A skin cyst looks like round, dome-shaped bump. It's yellow or whitish, often with a small dark plug through which you might be able to squeeze out pus. It can range in size from smaller than a pea t
Where are skin cysts found?
Epidermoid cysts (one of the main types of cyst) are commonly found on theface,neck,chest, shoulders or skin around thegenitals. These cystsaffect young and middle-aged adults, and areespecially comm
Why do epidermoid and pilar cysts form?
Some of the cells in the top layer of skin produce keratin, a protein that gives skin its strength and flexibility. Normally, these cells move upto the surface of the skin as they start to die, so the
How are cysts treated?
Cysts are usually harmless.If they're small and not bothering you, they can just be left alone. You might find it helps to hold a warm flannel against the skin, to encourage the cyst to heal and redu
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