Skin is a complex organ and is the largest in the human body. The upper skin normally sheds and new cells generate. But at the layer where larger sebaceous glands are present, the epidermis starts growing inward and secretes keratin to form sebaceous cysts. Sebaceous cysts are the depositions of keratin, which is a thick, yellowish liquid. Sebaceous cysts, which occur as small lumps just under the skin, are also known as epidermoid cysts.
 

Most often sebaceous cysts are not harmful. In only rare events, sebaceous cysts are linked with skin cancer. It is always advisable to consult a dermatologist to differentiate between sebaceous cyst and any other skin problem. They occur beneath the skin and are easily movable with fingers. The face, trunk and the neck region are mainly affected by sebaceous cysts though they can occur in any part of the body.
 

Sunburn and oil-based cosmetics are really harmful as they are linked with higher risk of developing sebaceous cysts. Any injury to the skin can also be harmful and precipitates the formation of sebaceous gland. Rupturing sebaceous cyst under unhygienic conditions can be harmful.
 

Usually, small sebaceous cysts go away on their own. If it gets infected, your dermatologist might give you treatment by injecting it with steroids. The ultimate treatment for sebaceous cyst is its surgical removal. It is harmful to squeeze the sebaceous cyst as it may cause infection to nearby areas. It is not uncommon to encounter a thick, foul-smelling discharge or swelling near the sebaceous cyst that pops open.
 

When a sebaceous cyst starts growing rapidly or becomes swollen and painful, it is important to consult a dermatologist. If it causes no harm, then removal is not necessary.  If ruptured or infected, these cysts can be harmful to the nearby areas of skin. Surgical removal is postponed if signs of infection and inflammation are present. Aseptic conditions and local anesthesia is needed for the removal of sebaceous cyst. The removal is done only after treating it with anti-inflammatory drugs. The various treatment options for sebaceous cysts are injection treatment (steroids), incision and drainage, laser treatment, or total excision treatment. Excision treatment involves the total surgical removal of the cyst. Excision treatment is done only if the inflammation has subsided, otherwise it can be harmful. Removal of cysts through laser treatment is often carried out on very small cysts in the facial skin.