Have you ever noticed a small bump behind your ear or on your scalp that seemed harmless at first, but slowly grew over time? Many people don’t think twice about it—until it starts to hurt, swell, or even leak an unusual substance. What you may be dealing with is a sebaceous cyst, a very common but often misunderstood skin condition. These cysts are usually slow-growing, non-cancerous lumps that form under the skin, and they’re especially common in areas with more oil glands, like the scalp, face, neck, and ears.
A sebaceous cyst forms when the gland responsible for producing oil (sebum) becomes blocked. Instead of releasing oil to keep the skin soft, the oil gets trapped under the skin, forming a sac filled with thick, sometimes smelly, yellowish material. The cyst might stay the same size for months or even years and usually doesn’t cause pain unless it becomes infected. When infected, it can become red, swollen, warm to the touch, and tender. In some cases, people may notice it draining pus or other material on its own.
While sebaceous cysts aren’t dangerous, they can be annoying or embarrassing, especially if they’re in a visible spot. That’s why many people choose to have them removed by a dermatologist. In professional settings, the cyst is carefully drained or surgically excised to prevent future flare-ups. This type of treatment, like the one shown in the image where the cyst is being extracted with sterile tools, ensures minimal scarring and reduces the chance of infection or recurrence.
It’s very important not to try popping or squeezing the cyst yourself. Doing so can push bacteria deeper into the skin, leading to a painful abscess or spreading the infection. Plus, DIY attempts rarely remove the full sac that causes the cyst, which means it can come back even larger. Only a trained medical professional can safely remove the entire cyst sac, which is the key to preventing it from returning.
If you notice a new lump on your skin that grows, changes, or becomes painful, it’s always best to get it checked. Sebaceous cysts are generally harmless, but early treatment can prevent complications. Whether it’s for comfort, appearance, or peace of mind, knowing what’s under your skin—and getting proper care for it—can make all the difference.
