Popped sebaceous cyst: what to do

A cyst can release thick, foul-smelling material when pressure, inflammation or friction opens its surface. The drainage may reduce pressure without removing the capsule beneath the skin, so the lump can refill. A popped cyst is not automatically an abscess, but redness, warmth and tenderness can make the distinction difficult to judge at home. Other skin lumps can look similar, which is why a changing or recurrent lump deserves examination.

Wash your hands, rinse the area gently with clean water, pat it dry and cover it with a clean dressing. Replace the dressing when wet or dirty. Do not squeeze, cut, probe or repeatedly press the opening, and do not share towels. Avoid applying strong antiseptics or leftover antibiotics unless a clinician has advised them. A clinician may use an intralesional steroid injection for selected inflammation, drain an abscess when pus has collected, or recommend cyst removal once active inflammation has settled.

Arrange prompt review if redness spreads, pain increases, the area feels hot, drainage continues, or you develop fever or feel unwell. Seek urgent care for rapidly expanding swelling, red streaks, severe pain, or swelling near the eye. Recurrent cysts often need planned cyst removal rather than repeated home drainage.

Is this consistent with a cyst or could it be another skin lump? Has the capsule remained? Should drainage, steroid injection or cyst removal be considered, and how should I dress the opening?