How is a sebaceous cyst formed?

Written by Liu Gang
Dermatology
Updated on September 25, 2024
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Sebaceous cysts primarily arise from the vigorous secretion of one's own sebaceous glands, forming benign proliferation in the subcutaneous area, which contains a cyst filled with tofu-dregs-like substances. Initially, they appear as abscesses with clear pus inside, and over time, the pus gradually dries out to form the cyst. This condition is related to inflammation within the body. Once identified, it is advised to seek formal treatment in the dermatology department of a regular hospital. The most common treatment plan is a minor surgery to completely remove the cyst and the tofu-dregs-like substances, which can effectively eradicate the issue. This disease has a certain recurrence rate, so it is crucial to regulate one's diet and lifestyle habits, avoid spicy and stimulating foods, and try not to stay up late.

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Written by Liu Gang
Dermatology
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Are sebaceous cysts prone to recurrence?

Sebaceous cysts are benign proliferations that occur due to an over-secretion of local sebaceous glands mixed with bacterial infection. Generally, they can appear on any part of the skin. Although benign, if left untreated, they tend to grow larger. Typically, surgical removal is curative if the cyst sac is completely excised, with recurrence usually due to incomplete removal of the cyst sac or new flare-ups at other sites due to inflammation and infection. Once the condition is adequately treated, it is crucial to adopt a standardized diet and lifestyle habits. Try to avoid greasy and spicy foods, enhance physical exercise, sweat more, and avoid bathing or swimming in public pools, as well as keeping pets.

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Dermatology
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Are sebaceous cysts contagious?

Sebaceous cysts are benign proliferations on the skin surface due to vigorous secretion of the sebaceous glands or local bacterial infections. This disease is not contagious and cannot be transmitted through contact. However, if left untreated, the condition may worsen over time, potentially increasing in size and leading to pain or rupture. Once diagnosed, it is advised to undergo a minor surgery at a reputable hospital's dermatology department. The cyst and its sac should be completely removed. Generally, the likelihood of recurrence is low. It is recommended to maintain a balanced diet and healthy lifestyle habits. Avoid public baths and swimming, abstain from spicy foods, avoid staying up late, do not keep pets at home, and frequently sanitize clothing, bedsheets, and covers by exposing them to sunlight.

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Dermatology
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How to treat sebaceous cysts?

Sebaceous cysts are benign proliferations that form under the skin in areas where the sebaceous glands are particularly active. They contain a sac filled with a substance that resembles tofu dregs. The most common treatment is a minor surgery to completely remove the contents of the cyst. After recovery, it is important to maintain a proper diet and lifestyle, avoid spicy and irritating foods, refrain from drinking alcohol and eating hot peppers, try not to stay up late, and avoid soaking in public baths or swimming pools. This condition has a tendency to recur, but forming good life habits after recovery can greatly reduce the recurrence rate. Additionally, oral medications that reduce sebum secretion may be taken, and frequent bathing with sulfur soap can help reduce bacterial infections on the skin surface. (Specific medications should be taken under the guidance of a physician.)

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Written by Liu Gang
Dermatology
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Do sebaceous cysts hurt?

Most sebaceous cysts generally do not show obvious symptoms and do not cause pain. However, if the sebaceous glands grow and enlarge gradually, they will become painful, especially during squeezing or friction, which intensifies the pain. Once this condition is detected, it is best to go to a regular hospital's dermatology department where a doctor can perform minor surgery to completely remove the tofu-dregs-like substances and the cyst, thereby achieving a thorough cure. Regularly, one should standardize their diet and lifestyle habits, avoid spicy and irritating food, avoid staying up late, avoid anxiety, and refrain from bathing or swimming in public baths. It is also advisable not to keep small animals at home and to frequently sunbathe and sanitize bed linens and quilt covers.

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Written by Liu Gang
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Is it okay not to treat a sebaceous cyst?

Sebaceous cysts are a result of hyperactive sebum secretion from the sebaceous glands, which accumulates in the local skin causing benign proliferation. Inside there is a sac containing material that resembles tofu dregs. If the cyst is small and does not show signs of growth, it can be left untreated, but it requires long-term observation. If the sebaceous cyst grows gradually larger or becomes painful, it is advisable to visit the dermatology department of a reputable hospital for a minor surgery to completely remove the sac and the tofu-dregs-like material inside. After recovery, it is important to follow a disciplined diet and lifestyle to prevent recurrence. One should avoid spicy and irritating foods, try not to stay up late, exercise regularly, and bathe frequently.