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What is a Cyst?
A cyst is a benign, encapsulated lesion that consists of a fluid sac which contains liquid, or semi-fluid material. It can vary in shape, size and location. The most common types of cysts are reviewed here.

Acne, acne cysts, and sebaceous cysts are benign skin lesions and are one of the most common reasons which patients consult with dermatologists like Dr. Michele Green in Manhattan. Sebaceous cysts are the most common type of cyst, and are slow-growing noncancerous bumps on the skin. However, if sebaceous cysts are left untreated, they tend to enlarge, get infected, and cause cosmetic scarring. Dr. Michele Green treats these sebaceous cysts in her Upper East Side NYC office each day. Through her minimally invasive techniques, she treats these cysts in a cosmetically elegant way, and avoids any unnecessary scarring.
What causes a sebaceous cyst?
Sebaceous cysts are formed within the sebaceous gland, which is the gland which produces sebum. These cysts develop when the hair follicles become clogged due to a build up of sebum or keratin. These cysts can also be formed from pimples or as a result of trauma to the sebaceous glands. Individuals with a genetic predisposition such as steatocystoma multiplex, Gardner’s syndrome or Basal Cell Nevus Syndrome are also prone to developing sebaceous cysts.

How do you diagnose a sebaceous cyst?
A diagnosis of a sebaceous cyst can be determined by a physical examination of the nodule by a dermatologist, family physician or other healthcare provider. There are occasions when additional testing is required to make a definitive diagnosis of a cyst, since it can sometimes be mistaken for a different type of skin tumor.

Common tests used to diagnosis a sebaceous cyst include:

Cat scan – This test is performed to rule out other abnormalities or cancer.
Ultrasound – This test is performed to establish the contents of the cyst and depth of inflammation.
Punch biopsy – This test is performed to identify the histology of the cyst.
Culture and Sensitivity – This exam is performed to determine the type of bacteria responsible for the infection and the best antibiotic to treat the infection.

• Don’t Pop It: It might be tempting, but popping a pimple can make it worse and cause scarring. Squeezing it can also push bacteria deeper into the skin.

• Apply a Spot Treatment: Use an over-the-counter acne treatment containing benzoyl peroxide, salicylic acid, or sulfur. These ingredients help reduce swelling and fight bacteria.

• Ice the Area: Applying ice or a cold compress for about 10-15 minutes can reduce swelling and redness by constricting blood vessels.

• Use an Acne Patch: Hydrocolloid acne patches can be applied directly over the pimple. They absorb excess oil and help with healing.

• Cleanse Gently: Use a gentle, non-comedogenic cleanser to keep your skin clean and free of excess oil. Avoid harsh scrubbing.

• Moisturize: Keeping your skin hydrated can prevent it from producing more oil, which could make pimples worse.

• Consider Seeing a Dermatologist: If you’re having frequent breakouts or larger cystic pimples, a dermatologist can help recommend stronger treatments or medications.

1. Don’t Pop the Pimple

• Why Not?: Popping pimples can push bacteria and oil deeper into the skin, which can lead to more inflammation, infection, and even scarring. It also delays healing.
• Research: A study published in the Journal of Dermatology highlights that popping pimples increases the risk of scarring and infection by forcing the contents deeper into the skin (Journal of Dermatology, 2016).
• Tip: Hands off! If you feel tempted to pop a pimple, distract yourself with something else like applying an acne patch (discussed below).

2. Apply Spot Treatments

• Benzoyl Peroxide: Benzoyl peroxide is one of the most effective treatments for acne. It works by killing acne-causing bacteria and reducing inflammation.
  • How It Works: It releases oxygen into the pores, which helps kill the bacteria that contribute to acne formation.
  • Reference: A review in the Journal of Clinical and Aesthetic Dermatology found that benzoyl peroxide is effective in reducing acne severity (Journal of Clinical and Aesthetic Dermatology, 2017).
• Salicylic Acid: Salicylic acid is a beta-hydroxy acid (BHA) that helps exfoliate the skin, unclog pores, and reduce swelling.
  • Reference: The American Academy of Dermatology notes salicylic acid is effective in treating mild to moderate acne due to its ability to exfoliate the skin and reduce pore blockages (AAD, 2020).
• Sulfur: Sulfur works by drying out pimples and absorbing excess oil. It also has antibacterial properties.
  • Study: A clinical trial published in The Journal of Dermatological Treatment found that sulfur treatments significantly reduced acne symptoms (Journal of Dermatological Treatment, 2016).

3. Use Cold Compress or Ice

• Why Cold?: Applying ice or a cold compress to the pimple can help reduce swelling and redness. Cold constricts blood vessels and reduces inflammation.
• How to Use: Wrap ice in a clean cloth and apply to the pimple for 10–15 minutes, several times a day.
• Reference: Research from the British Journal of Dermatology indicates that cooling can help soothe inflammation and reduce the appearance of acne (British Journal of Dermatology, 2019).

4. Use Acne Patches (Hydrocolloid Dressings)

• What Are They?: Hydrocolloid patches are adhesive stickers that you place on a pimple to absorb excess fluid and protect it from dirt or bacteria.
• Why They Work: These patches create a moist environment that helps speed up the healing process and can flatten pimples overnight. They also act as a barrier, preventing you from touching the pimple.
• Reference: A study published in Dermatologic Surgery shows hydrocolloid patches can improve the healing time of acne lesions by reducing inflammation and absorbing exudate (Dermatologic Surgery, 2015).

5. Gentle Cleansing

• Why It Matters: Over-washing or scrubbing can irritate the skin and make acne worse. It’s important to use a gentle, non-comedogenic cleanser that doesn’t strip your skin of moisture.
• Tip: Use a cleanser containing salicylic acid or a gentle foaming gel, and wash your face no more than twice a day.
• Reference: The American Academy of Dermatology recommends using gentle cleansers and avoiding harsh scrubs, as they can irritate and inflame acne-prone skin (AAD, 2020).

6. Moisturizing is Key

• Why It Helps: Keeping your skin moisturized can help balance oil production. If your skin is too dry, it can produce more oil, potentially leading to more breakouts.
• Tip: Choose a non-comedogenic moisturizer (meaning it won’t clog your pores). Look for ingredients like hyaluronic acid or glycerin, which help hydrate without making the skin greasy.
• Research: Studies show that maintaining a proper moisture balance is essential for preventing acne flare-ups (Journal of Clinical and Aesthetic Dermatology, 2015).

7. See a Dermatologist (If Needed)

• When to Seek Professional Help: If you have persistent, large cystic pimples or acne that doesn’t respond to over-the-counter treatments, it may be time to see a dermatologist. They can prescribe stronger medications like oral antibiotics, topical retinoids, or even recommend chemical peels or light therapy.
• References: According to the American Academy of Dermatology, dermatologists can prescribe topical or oral treatments that are more effective for severe cases of acne, and they may offer more targeted treatments like light therapies (AAD, 2020).

Helpful Resources:

• American Academy of Dermatology (AAD): Offers a variety of articles and tips on treating acne. Visit AAD
• Journal of Dermatological Treatment: Provides clinical insights into acne treatments, including those involving sulfur and benzoyl peroxide.
• Journal of Clinical and Aesthetic Dermatology: Reviews effective acne treatments and products used in both over-the-counter and prescription formats.