What should you know about little cysts under skin?

An epidermoid cyst can form when skin cells collect in a pocket beneath the surface. It may feel round, firm or springy and can stay the same size for a long time. Some cysts have a small opening at the surface. A cyst can become swollen, warm, red or sore if it is irritated or inflamed. Those features can overlap with other skin lumps, including an abscess, so appearance alone cannot confirm the diagnosis.

Do not squeeze, puncture or repeatedly press the lump. These actions can injure the surrounding skin and may push material deeper. A clinician may examine its depth, mobility and surface, then explain whether observation or treatment is suitable.

Keep the area clean and avoid friction from tight clothing, shaving or repeated handling. A warm, comfortable compress may soothe tenderness, but it will not remove the cyst wall. If the lump is bothersome, recurrent or cosmetically concerning, discuss options such as [Cyst Removal](/treatments/surgical-dermatology/cyst-removal/). A steroid injection into the skin may be considered for selected inflammation, while a collection of pus may need [Abscess Drainage](/treatments/minor-procedures/abscess-drainage/).

Arrange a medical review if a lump grows, becomes painful, changes its surface, repeatedly returns or remains unexplained. Seek prompt care for spreading redness, increasing warmth, drainage, fever or rapidly worsening swelling. These signs can indicate infection or another process that needs examination.

Ask whether the lump feels like a cyst, whether it is inflamed or infected, and whether monitoring is reasonable. You can also ask what changes should trigger review and whether removal would include the cyst wall to reduce recurrence.