# Skin cysts

> Smooth lumps under the skin that can become inflamed or infected.

Source: https://www.skinhealth.clinic/conditions/cysts/
Written and medically reviewed by Dr Ting Seng Tang, Consultant Dermatologist (GMC 7020502). Last reviewed 2026-10.

The most common skin cysts are epidermoid cysts (sometimes called sebaceous cysts) and pilar cysts on the scalp. They are usually harmless, slow-growing lumps, sometimes with a small central opening.

Cysts can become red, swollen and painful if they become inflamed or infected, and they can recur if not fully removed.

## How We Can Help

- Assessment of the lump to confirm it is a cyst.
- Treatment of inflamed or infected cysts.
- Discussion of surgical removal for cysts that are troublesome, recurrent or bothersome, usually under local anaesthetic.

## When to get urgent help

If a lump is growing quickly, is hard or fixed, or you are unsure what it is, have it checked promptly.

## Book

See https://www.skinhealth.clinic/services/ for online (£150), face-to-face (£250 new, £180 follow-up) and Mole Check / Rash Review (£75) appointments.

_General information only, not a substitute for individual medical advice. Provided by SkinHealth.Clinic (Dr Ting Seng Tang, GMC 7020502)._