Fact Checked
A sebaceous cyst is a harmless, closed sac that is found in the skin and sometimes forms dome-shaped lumps that is attached to the epidermis that can shift over the underlying tissues. The cyst consists of swollen follicles of hair or lumps due to skin trauma. The sebaceous cyst usually forms on the neck, shoulder, face or chest or hairy areas in the body and can become infected. The content of the sebaceous cyst is a damp keratin which is the compound of nails, hair and outer layer of the skin.
Symptoms of infected sebaceous cyst
- Redness
- Tenderness of the affected area
Apply a warm compress on the cyst using a towel that is warmed to 37-40-degree C on the area for at least 10-30 minutes at 3-4 times every day until the cyst dries up. - Hot feeling over the area
- Presence of fluid that looks like wax and oil
- Pain and swelling when the area becomes severe and fever of 100.4 degrees F or higher. There is also drainage of pus from the cyst
Treatment
- Apply a warm compress on the cyst using a towel that is warmed to 37-40-degree C on the area for at least 10-30 minutes at 3-4 times every day until the cyst dries up. The heat dilates the blood vessels for proper flow of blood in the area. It also eliminates any inflammatory exudates and waste products from swelling.
- Wash the skin thoroughly using a non-irritating antimicrobial soap under running water. Pat dry the skin using a clean towel or cloth and cover using sterile gauze. Keep the gauze dry all the times.
- Avoid popping the cyst to prevent further irritation and permanent scarring. If the cyst accidentally pops and causes a break in the skin, wash the area immediately in running water and use a non-irritating antimicrobial soap.
- Aloe vera has phenolic compounds rich in antibiotic properties. Dab on aloe vera gel directly on the affected area and rub it until it is fully absorbed by the skin. Repeat this process every day until the area is totally healed. Aloe vera gel lessens the pain and discomfort of the skin due to the infected sebaceous cyst. Perform this remedy at least 1-2 times every day.
- Apple cider vinegar is rich in acetic acid. It has antiseptic properties that eliminate bacteria that cause the infection. Apply vinegar on the affected area and cover using a bandage and remove the bandage after 3-4 days. A hard layer can be seen on top of the lesion. Remove the crust and let the pus drain out together with the bacteria. Wash the area properly and place a fresh bandage without vinegar. After 2-3 days, the cyst should be totally healed.
Tips
- An infected sebaceous cyst that develops in the genital area can result to serious discomfort especially when urinating and requires proper care.