Cyst on Jawline Under the Skin

A skin cyst forms as a closed sac beneath the surface and may feel like a smooth, rounded nodule. The jawline is also close to acne-prone skin, lymph nodes, salivary structures, and the mouth, so not every jawline lump is a cyst. Tenderness, a surface opening, thick drainage, or irritation from shaving can provide useful clues, but a hands-on examination is more reliable. You can read about the broader symptom category [Skin Lumps](/symptoms/skin-lumps/).

Do not squeeze, lance, or repeatedly press the lump. Pause shaving over it if that causes rubbing, and wash gently without scrubbing. Arrange an appointment if it remains, recurs, or interferes with shaving or comfort. Depending on the findings, a clinician may discuss [Steroid Injection Into The Skin](/treatments/injectables/intralesional-steroid-injection/), observation, or [Cyst Removal](/treatments/surgical-dermatology/cyst-removal/). Treatment choice depends on whether the cyst is inflamed and whether the entire sac is causing repeated problems.

Get prompt medical care for increasing jawline pain, warmth, swelling, pus, or redness that is spreading. Fever or difficulty swallowing, breathing, opening the mouth, or moving the neck requires urgent assessment. If infection has formed a pocket of pus, [Abscess Drainage](/treatments/minor-procedures/abscess-drainage/) may be considered by a clinician.

Does the lump sit in the skin or deeper tissues? Could shaving or acne be contributing? Is there evidence of infection? What treatment would limit recurrence, and what care is needed to protect the nearby skin?