Sebaceous cyst This is a localized accumulation of cheese-like material in the outermost layer of the skin, the epidermis, called an epidermal cyst. This is mainly due to our sebaceous glands (an oily substance that is responsible for the lubrication of our skin and hair). Once the excretion of the sebaceous glands is blocked, the possibility of sebaceous cysts may develop. The cyst formations contain a waxy or oily cheesy substance and a foul odor. Sometimes they also contain keratinous cysts and epidermis-like cysts. Symptoms Sebaceous cysts usually occur on the face, neck, and trunk. Rarely, women sometimes develop them in areas such as the vagina and external genitalia. These women may complain of genital discomfort. Affected individuals usually complain of cystic masses that are painless, slow-growing, and movable. Cysts are sometimes complicated by infection. Once infected, sebaceous cysts become red, indurated or painful, locally warm, lumpy/bumpy with discharge of a light gray or white, foul-smelling, cheese-like substance. Sebaceous cysts may present with serious complications such as abscess formation. Incomplete excision of cysts may recur. The diagnosis can be made directly with a simple examination. However, sometimes a biopsy is performed to rule out other possible pathologies. It is wise to see a doctor once a sebaceous cyst has formed to make the correct diagnosis and treatment. Causes Many factors are involved in the formation of sebaceous cysts. The oil glands secreted by the sebaceous glands become clogged in the bursa and become or yellow fat-like material that fills the bursa. Studies have shown that high levels of testosterone are associated with the development of sebaceous cysts. In men, this is usually a result of high hormone levels. People who suffer from acne are very susceptible to this condition. Skin trauma or crush injuries, etc. may be another risk for the development of sebaceous cysts. Swollen hair follicles are another factor in the development of the condition. Hair follicle injury is also a root cause. Damaged/abraded hair follicles, surgical wounds or other factors can cause blockage. Ruptured sebaceous glands producing sebum (skin and hair shaft lubricant) is another cause. Skin problems such as acne make it easy for sebum deposits to form cysts as well. Developmental defects are also a cause. People with a genetic disorder such as Gardner’s syndrome also face this condition. This rare condition causes sebaceous glands to grow into other parts of the body, which can lead to other serious defects. The condition is more common in whites than in African and Asian Americans. The condition is aggravated by the use of heavy makeup or inappropriate makeup products. Environmental pollution and excessive oil release products can cause this condition. Treatment It is best to prevent its occurrence, but if risk factors are present, it is almost impossible to prevent. Simply, avoid too much sun exposure and do not use oil-free skin products. In order not to develop complications, do not squeeze or touch it in an unhygienic way. This will prevent infection. Avoid using greasy or thick cosmetics. It is recommended to choose products that do not cause acne markings and that do not clog the pores of the skin. Sebaceous cysts need to be treated. Your doctor may put you on anti-inflammatory medication, and sometimes incision and drainage may be performed. However, the disadvantage of incision and drainage is recurrence. Depending on the situation the doctor may give oral antibiotics to avoid the development of infection. Applying a heating pad to the cyst for 15 to 20 minutes twice a day for ten days may be useful. The heating pad must be clean or sterilized. Avoid squeezing, scratching, opening or puncturing to drain the cyst to avoid rupture. Keep clean. Use antibacterial soap as appropriate to prevent infection. Excision The smallest possible incision can be used to avoid undesirable scarring. Local anesthesia is usually sufficient. The surgery involves removing the complete cyst wall and the entire cyst. The wound will heal normally after excision. If there is an infection, it is treated with anti-inflammatory therapy prior to surgery before complete excision. The incision is sutured and the sutures are removed in about ten days. For the face it may take four to six weeks to remove the sutures and then laser treatment to eliminate the scar. This treatment is generally indicated for highly sensitive areas such as the face and groin area.