What Is A Sebaceous Cyst?
A cyst is a noncancerous lump under the skin. They are often located on the face, trunk or in places where the body gets hot, such as armpits, and are quite common. Sebaceous cysts, sometimes known as epidermal cysts, take time to develop, contain liquid or semi-liquid and are rarely painful unless they become infected.
They are caused as a result of a blocked duct from sebaceous glands, which are situated at the base of hair follicles. Producing sebum, an oil that moisturizes and protects our skin, when the duct becomes blocked by an ingrown hair, bacteria or a skin condition, such as acne, a cyst forms. The inside of the cyst walls secrete keratin, a soft substance that forms our skin layers, and it is this substance that fills the cyst.
Sebaceous Cyst Treatment – Home Remedies For Sebaceous Cysts
In many cases, a hot compress can encourage the cyst to heal. Use a cotton pad soaked in water that is as hot as you can bear, and hold it against the cyst for five minutes a couple of times a day. You may find that initially the cyst starts to look redder or bursts, but this is just the process of healing. If it does burst, apply a little antiseptic cream to the area, and it will soon heal.
Another popular remedy is Tea Tree Essential Oil.
Possessing antimicrobial properties, tea tree oil can destroy bacteria, viruses, fungi, and other pathogens, and is very effective at dealing with sebaceous cysts.
Dilute a few drops of tea tree oil in half a cup of hot water, and using a clean cloth or cotton pad, apply it directly to the cyst two or three times a day. You should notice an improvement within a couple of days. Avoid using undiluted tea tree oil as it is very astringent when applied neat on the skin.
If you are concerned, or the cyst does not clear up after a couple of weeks, make an appointment to see your doctor.
Sebaceous Cyst Home Treatment
While you should pay a visit to your doctor in case you are experiencing a sebaceous cyst, there are multiple things you can do at home to ease your symptoms and alleviate the discomfort that comes along with having a sebaceous cyst. While there are many treatments you can get either at the doctor’s or follow at home to help you if you are experiencing a sebaceous cyst, the following are some of the most effective tips.
Apply a Hot Compress
When it comes to draining cysts and extracting any type of gunk from the skin and pores, one of the most widely recommended home treatments is to apply heat to the affected area. The reason it works is the fact that heat reduces the density of the matter inside the cyst and helps the cyst either drain into the lymphatic system or drain outside the skin. However, please remember to use clean water and a clean compress. Do not use unbearable heat on your skin – always wait for the compress to cool to a reasonable but hot temperature. Keep the compress on your skin for 30 minutes at a time and repeat the cycle several times every day.
Use Apple Cider Vinegar
Apple cider vinegar, due to its natural properties, may help with draining of a sebaceous cyst. The reason apple cider vinegar helps is that it has antimicrobial and antiseptic properties thanks to the acetic acid it contains. This is also the reason that apple cider vinegar is only effective on the types of cysts that are caused by a bacterial infection. In order to use it, simply mix equal parts of water and vinegar and apply to the affected area a couple of times every day.
