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Cysts Specialist

Sanford Dermatology

Medical Dermatology & Cosmetic Dermatology located in Sanford, NC, Lillington, NC & Pittsboro, NC

Cysts are small sacs or capsules filled with fluid, bacteria, pus, or other types of debris. Since cysts can become painful and even seriously infected, the highly skilled dermatologists at Sanford Dermatology provide in-office treatments in Sanford, Pittsboro, and Lillington, North Carolina. If you have a cyst, book an exam at your nearest clinic by calling any office to speak with a team member directly.

Cysts Q & A

What are the symptoms of cysts?

Even though cysts can develop anywhere in your body — even on reproductive organs and connective tissues — when it comes to your skin, you’re probably going to notice an outward lump. Depending on the severity of your cyst, it can:

  • Ooze fluid or pus
  • Feel sore or tender
  • Become red or inflamed

Cysts can feel hard or soft and may only bother you when there’s pressure on the area. Because cysts often progress and become bigger without proper treatment, it’s important to have your cyst evaluated, even if it doesn’t seem to be too problematic yet. 


Why do I have cysts?

Cysts develop for a variety of reasons, depending on the area. With cystic acne, for instance, your pores become clogged with oil, bacteria, and dead skin cells due to hormonal fluctuations or increased oil production. You start developing painful cysts on oil-prone areas, especially your face, back, or chest. 

If you develop cysts, it could be related to or caused by:

  • Ingrown hairs, often due to waxing or shaving
  • Trauma around a hair follicle (epidermoid cyst) 
  • Ruptured or blocked oil glands (sebaceous cysts)
  • Protein buildup in your hair follicle on your scalp (pilar cysts)

You can also develop cysts because of friction and rubbing, either from skin folds, clothes, or sitting for long periods. This is common with pilonidal cysts that form at the top of your buttocks. No matter what’s causing your cyst or how minor your symptoms may seem, the dedicated team at Sanford Dermatology can help. 


How are cysts treated?

Your cyst treatment plan depends on where it’s located, whether or not the cyst is recurring, and the severity of your symptoms. For minor cysts, your dermatologist at Sanford Dermatology might recommend placing a warm compress on the area several times per day to encourage it to drain and heal.

But for more complex cysts that are larger, infected, or causing pain, your dermatologist could suggest any of the following treatments:

  • Draining the cyst
  • Antibiotic medications for infections
  • Corticosteroid injections to reduce inflammation
  • Surgically removing the cyst (if draining doesn’t work or isn’t an option)

Once your dedicated dermatologist at Sanford Dermatology treats your current cyst, they talk with you about how to prevent cysts in the future. For instance, keeping your skin clean and dry and exfoliating regularly can reduce your risk of certain types of cysts.

Schedule your cyst evaluation at Sanford Dermatology today. Request an appointment online, or call your most convenient office directly.