What should you know about skin cyst on head?

A skin cyst is a sac beneath the surface that can contain keratin and feel smooth or rounded. Hair follicles and scalp skin can develop cysts, but a lump may also be a swollen node, abscess, or another growth. You may notice it while washing or brushing, and friction from headwear or a comb can make it sore. Skin Lumps offers general information about bumps in different body areas.

Avoid picking, puncturing, or trying to empty the lump, even if it has a visible opening. Wash the scalp normally but use gentle handling over a tender area. Record changes in size, pain, redness, warmth, and drainage. A quiet cyst may be watched after assessment. Depending on the findings, a clinician may discuss an Intralesional Steroid Injection, Abscess Drainage, or Cyst Removal; the best option depends on inflammation, recurrence, and position among the hair follicles.

Arrange a medical review for a new, persistent, enlarging, firm, fixed, or painful scalp lump. Seek prompt care when the area becomes hot, red, swollen, or drains pus, or when you develop fever. Get urgent help for severe headache with marked scalp swelling, confusion, weakness, or swelling that follows a significant injury. A hands-on examination is especially useful when hair makes the lump difficult to see.

Does the lump have features of a cyst? Could it be infected or something else? Should I change hair care or headwear? Would observation, drainage, injection, or removal be appropriate?