Overview

An epidermal (skin) cyst is a small, round lump in the top layer of skin called the epidermis. It may be filled with a soft, yellow substance called keratin. Skin cysts most often appear on the face, ears, back, or chest. But they can appear on almost any part of the body.

When you have a skin cyst, the lump or bump under the skin is:

• Small, round, and smooth.
• About the size of a pea, or a little smaller or larger.
• Yellow, white, or skin-colored. It can turn red if it becomes inflamed.
• Painless. But it can be painful if it's inflamed.

Home treatment for a lump such as an epidermal (skin) cyst may relieve symptoms but may not make the cyst go away.

Here are some tips for treating a lump that may be caused by infection under the skin.

• Do not squeeze, scratch, drain, open (lance), or puncture the lump.

  Doing this can irritate or inflame the lump, push any existing infection deeper into the skin, or cause severe bleeding.

• Keep the area clean.

  Wash the lump and surrounding skin well with soap.

• Apply warm, wet washcloths to the lump for 20 to 30 minutes, 3 to 4 times a day.
  • If you prefer, you can also use a hot water bottle or heating pad over a damp towel.
  • Be careful not to burn your skin. Do not use water that is warmer than bath water.
• Apply a bandage.

  If the lump begins to drain pus, apply a bandage to keep the draining material from spreading. Change the bandage daily. If a large amount of pus drains from the lump, or the lump becomes more red or painful, you may need to see a doctor.