Skin cysts are common and usually harmless, but when they become infected, they can cause significant discomfort, swelling, and complications if not treated properly. The images above clearly demonstrate advanced infected skin cysts, showing redness, inflammation, pus formation, and surrounding tissue reaction. This article explains what an infected cyst is, why it happens, how it is treated, and how recovery typically looks.
🍇What Is an Infected Skin Cyst?
A skin cyst is a closed sac beneath the skin filled with fluid, keratin, or semi-solid material. When bacteria enter the cyst—often through tiny breaks in the skin—it can become infected. Once infected, the cyst may rapidly enlarge, become painful, and produce pus.
In the images shown:
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The skin appears red, swollen, and tense
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The cyst has a central opening with yellowish discharge
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Surrounding tissue shows signs of active inflammation
These features strongly indicate an infected cyst rather than a simple, non-inflamed one.
👁Common Causes of Infection
Several factors can lead to a cyst becoming infected:
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Blocked hair follicles
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Excess oil production under the skin
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Skin trauma or friction
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Shaving or ingrown hairs
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Poor hygiene or excessive sweating
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Attempting to squeeze or pop a cyst
Once bacteria enter the cyst, the body responds with inflammation, resulting in swelling, pain, and pus formation.
👑Signs and Symptoms of an Infected Cyst
An infected cyst typically presents with the following symptoms:
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Increasing redness around the area
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Swelling and firmness of the skin
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Pain or tenderness when touched
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Warmth around the cyst
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Yellow or green pus drainage
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A foul odor from the discharge
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Sometimes fever or general discomfort in severe cases
In the second image, visible pressure applied by gloved hands reveals thick purulent material, a classic sign of bacterial infection.
💥Why You Should Never Squeeze an Infected Cyst
Many people attempt to drain cysts at home, which can be dangerous. Squeezing an infected cyst can:
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Push bacteria deeper into the skin
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Worsen the infection
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Cause scarring
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Lead to abscess formation
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Spread infection to surrounding tissue
Medical drainage should always be performed in a sterile environment by trained professionals.
💰Medical Treatment Options
Treatment depends on the severity of the infection:
1. Professional Drainage
A healthcare provider may perform a sterile incision and drainage to remove pus and reduce pressure.
2. Antibiotics
If the infection is spreading or severe, oral or topical antibiotics may be prescribed.
3. Anti-inflammatory Care
Reducing swelling and pain helps promote healing and comfort.
4. Complete Cyst Removal
In recurring cases, the entire cyst wall may need to be surgically removed to prevent future infections.
❄Healing and Recovery Process
After proper treatment:
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Redness and swelling gradually decrease
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Pain subsides within days
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The wound begins to close naturally
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Skin may temporarily discolor before returning to normal
Keeping the area clean and following aftercare instructions is essential to avoid reinfection.
⭐When to Seek Medical Attention
You should seek medical care immediately if:
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The cyst grows rapidly
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Pain becomes severe
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Fever develops
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Red streaks appear on the skin
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The cyst keeps returning
Early treatment prevents complications and long-term scarring.
👉Prevention Tips
While not all cysts can be prevented, you can reduce risk by:
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Maintaining good skin hygiene
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Avoiding excessive squeezing or picking at skin lesions
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Using clean shaving tools
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Managing oily or acne-prone skin properly
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Seeking early medical advice when a cyst becomes painful
🔊Conclusion
The images above illustrate the serious nature of infected skin cysts when left untreated. Though common, these conditions require proper medical care to prevent worsening infection, scarring, and discomfort. Understanding the warning signs and seeking timely treatment is the key to safe and effective healing.
If you notice similar symptoms, consult a qualified healthcare professional rather than attempting home treatment.
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