Ingrown hair cysts are a common but often misunderstood skin issue. They develop when hairs grow back into the skin, creating cyst-like bumps. These cysts can be uncomfortable, unsightly, and sometimes lead to complications if left untreated. Proper treatment and prevention are key to managing this condition effectively.
Cyst vs ingrown hair: what’s the difference?
An ingrown hair cyst is a swollen, often painful lump under the skin caused by an ingrown hair, triggering an inflammatory response. Unlike regular ingrown hairs or pimples, cysts tend to be larger, firmer, and can sometimes become infected. While not usually dangerous, such cysts can be uncomfortable and unsightly. Fortunately, at SpaMedica, we offer a range of treatments to remove or reduce them.
How to identify symptoms of an infected cyst
Recognizing the signs of an infected cyst is crucial for securing timely medical attention. Common symptoms of infection include:
- Pus or discharge oozing from the cyst.
- Increasing discoloration around the area.
- Persistent or worsening itchiness.
- Intensified pain or tenderness.
- Foul odour emanating from the cyst.
- Noticeable swelling in the affected area.
- Fever, indicating a more serious infection.
If you experience any of these symptoms, consult a healthcare professional promptly to prevent complications.
Types of cysts
There are three types of cysts, each caused by a different subcutaneous blockage or obstruction. These include:
- Sebaceous Cysts: Formed by blocked oil glands, often mistaken for ingrown hair cysts.
- Epidermoid Cysts: Develop when dead skin cells accumulate under the skin.
- Ingrown Hair Cysts: Specifically caused by trapped hairs growing inward.
Cysts can develop deep under the skin, or closer to the surface. When they occur close to the skin’s surface, they can form a pale head and become more visible and irritable. Common regions where cysts can develop include the armpits, face, legs, or pubic area.
Appearance, symptoms, and signs of a cyst
Ingrown hair cysts are quite common, and usually nothing to worry about. However, they can be uncomfortable and unsightly, and there are several treatments for reducing or removing them. Talk to a SpaMedica skincare specialist about your options.
Causes of ingrown hair cysts
Ingrown hair cysts form when a hair follicle becomes clogged, forcing the hair to grow inward. It can also be caused by a hair curling back on itself so that it never leaves the follicle. The ingrowing process can be exacerbated by factors such as:
- Shaving and Waxing: Cutting hair too close to the skin increases the risk.
- Tight Clothing: Friction and pressure may irritate the skin.
- Natural Hair Texture: Coarse or curly hair is more prone to becoming ingrown.
How to tell if it’s a cyst or ingrown hair: Ingrown hairs are small, red bumps, while cysts are larger, deeper, and may feel like a hard lump. What does a pubic hair cyst look like? Such cysts are often tender, swollen, and may have a visible hair trapped under the skin.
Conditions linked to ingrown hairs
Ingrown hairs can be associated with various skin conditions depending on their location and appearance. Here are some related conditions:
- Folliculitis: An infection of the hair follicles resembling acne, often itchy or sore. It can occur anywhere on the skin or scalp, especially in areas affected by shaving, waxing, or friction. Other triggers include dirty hot tubs and scrubbing brushes.
- Pseudofolliculitis Barbae (Razor Bumps): Commonly affects the beard area, particularly in 60% of dark-skinned individuals. This condition arises when shaved hair curls back into the skin, causing inflammation and irritation.
- Epidermoid Cysts: These small sacs filled with dead skin cells commonly develop on the face, neck, and trunk. They are more prevalent in adults, often run in families, and are noncancerous.
- Pilonidal Cysts: These pockets form in the crease of the buttocks around hair follicles. They often appear as small pits or pores with a dark spot or visible hair.
- Trichilemmal (Pilar) Cysts: Typically found on the scalp, these cysts originate at the hair root and are most frequently diagnosed in middle-aged women.
- Steatocystomas: These benign cysts develop in the sebaceous glands. They usually emerge during adolescence and are found on the torso, neck, upper arms, and legs, often linked to the condition steatocystoma multiplex.
- Eruptive Vellus Hair Cysts: Rare growths forming around the roots of vellus hairs, seen in children and young adults. They appear as reddish-brown papules, 1 to 4 millimetres in size, on the chest, abdomen, and limbs.
Where these conditions are identified, SpaMedica can either suggest an appropriate course of treatment or refer you to alternative specialist services.
Why did my ingrown hair turn into a hard lump?
A hard lump forms when the body reacts to the ingrown hair, creating a protective barrier around it, often leading to inflammation and swelling. Where this occurs deeper in the skin tissue, a harder lump can be formed. While most such cysts are benign, they can be embarrassing, and patients may choose to have them removed. SpaMedica’s skincare experts can advise on suitable remedial treatments.
Treatment Options for Ingrown Hair Cysts
Depending on the severity of the cysts, a range of potential treatments may be recommended.
Medical Treatments
If home remedies fail or the cyst becomes infected, consult a dermatologist. SpaMedica offers the following non-surgical treatments:
- Laser Hair Removal: Best for long-term prevention, especially for individuals with coarse or curly hair prone to ingrown hairs.
- Microneedling: Helps reduce scarring and smooth affected areas.
- Chemical Peels and Professional Exfoliation (e.g., SilkPeel): Prevents ingrown hair cysts by maintaining clear skin and unclogging pores.
- Blue Light Therapy: Treats inflammation and infections caused by cysts.
For more advanced cases, procedures such as lancing or corticosteroid injections may be recommended. Consult your dermatologist for tailored advice.
Home Remedies
While professional care is most effective, minor cases can be managed at home. Here are three handy pointers:
- Apply warm compresses to reduce swelling.
- Use exfoliating scrubs to clear dead skin cells.
- Over-the-counter anti-inflammatory creams can help minimize irritation.
Treatments for specific areas
How to get rid of a cyst on the pubic area: Use warm compresses and avoid shaving the area until healed. How to treat ingrown hairs on the bikini line: Exfoliate regularly and wear loose clothing to reduce irritation.
Prevention tips for ingrown hair cysts
If you are prone to developing ingrown hair cysts, there are several things you can do to reduce their development, including:
- Shaving and Hair Removal: Shave in the direction of hair growth and avoid overly close cuts. Laser hair removal is a long-term solution to prevent ingrown hairs.
- Skin Maintenance: Exfoliate and moisturize regularly to prevent clogged pores and trapped hairs.
- Clothing Choices: Avoid tight-fitting clothes that irritate the skin.
