Sebaceous cysts are common, slow-growing, non-cancerous lumps that form just beneath the skin’s surface. Many people seek non-invasive, at-home methods to manage their appearance or encourage reduction. While a cyst cannot be instantly “dissolved,” certain natural approaches can help manage inflammation and promote the body’s natural process of reduction. Understanding the nature of the cyst and knowing when to seek professional care are important first steps.
What Exactly is a Sebaceous Cyst?
A sebaceous cyst is a sac-like pocket that develops under the skin, most commonly on the face, neck, back, or torso. These cysts form when the duct of a sebaceous gland becomes blocked or damaged, often due to trauma, a scratch, or an underlying skin condition like acne. Sebaceous glands produce sebum, an oily substance that lubricates the skin and hair.
The cyst is typically filled with a thick, yellowish material called keratin, a protein component of skin and hair. It usually appears as a round or oval lump that is flesh-colored or slightly yellowish and is soft to the touch. These growths are benign and can range in size from a small pea to several centimeters, sometimes growing slowly over months or years. A true sebaceous cyst is often confused with an epidermoid cyst, which is more common and arises from trapped surface skin cells rather than the sebaceous gland itself.
Natural Approaches to Shrink the Cyst
The most widely suggested non-invasive method for managing an uninfected cyst involves applying gentle heat. A warm compress can help reduce pain and increase blood circulation to the affected area. Increased blood flow may help the contents of the cyst liquefy, potentially encouraging the body to reabsorb the material or promote slow, natural drainage.
To apply a warm compress, soak a clean cloth in warm water, wring out the excess liquid, and hold it against the cyst for 15 to 20 minutes. Repeating this process three to four times daily can help manage discomfort and encourage reduction over time. Maintaining hygiene around the area is also important to prevent the entry of bacteria, which could lead to infection and inflammation.
Certain plant-derived compounds are often applied topically for their anti-inflammatory or antimicrobial effects. Tea tree oil, for instance, possesses antibacterial properties that may help prevent a non-infected cyst from developing a secondary bacterial infection. This oil must be diluted with a carrier oil, such as coconut or jojoba oil, before being applied directly to the skin to avoid irritation.
Another remedy involves diluted apple cider vinegar, which has a high acetic acid content. The acidic nature of the vinegar is thought to help dry out the cyst’s surface and inhibit bacterial growth. Mix equal parts of apple cider vinegar and water before applying the solution to the cyst with a cotton ball, rinsing the area after about 20 minutes to prevent skin burns. These natural methods are intended to manage the appearance and size of the cyst, but they are not a substitute for medical treatment.
When Professional Medical Attention is Necessary
Never attempt to puncture, squeeze, or perform self-surgery on a sebaceous cyst. This action significantly increases the risk of pushing bacteria deeper into the skin, which can lead to a severe infection and cause permanent scarring. Attempting to drain the cyst at home is unlikely to remove the cyst sac entirely, meaning the growth is highly likely to return.
A physician should evaluate the cyst if you notice signs of inflammation or infection, which indicate a necessity for intervention. These signs include rapid growth, increasing pain, warmth or redness of the overlying skin, or drainage of pus that may have a foul odor. A fever combined with a swollen cyst is a sign of a serious, spreading infection that requires immediate medical attention.
If natural methods fail to reduce the cyst or if the lump is causing discomfort due to its size or location, a doctor can offer several treatment options. These procedures may involve a steroid injection to reduce inflammation, an incision and drainage procedure to remove the contents of an infected cyst, or surgical excision. Surgical removal of the entire cyst wall is the only way to ensure the lump does not return.