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The condition

Keratin buildup

What is an earlobe cyst?

Have you ever noticed a small bump in your earlobe and thought to yourself what is it? It could be an earlobe cyst — a small, benign cyst that develops under the skin. These cysts, which are a type of a cutaneous cyst and are most commonly known as sebaceous or epidermoid cysts, occur due to the buildup of keratin or when an oil gland gets clogged, but can sometimes appear if the outermost layer of the superficial hair follicle is irritated or injured.

Other places where you can find cysts.

Earlobe cysts, also called as epidermal inclusion cysts, are types of lumps that occur on one or both ears, which are harmless and have formed from a collection of dead skin cells and oils found in the ears. Cysts may develop in other frequent places, including, inside your ear, behind your ear, or in your ear canal.

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The symptoms

A painful lump on the skin of your earlobe.

It’s often painless or mildly tender.

If the cyst becomes infected, it can be red, swollen and painful.

If the cyst ruptures, it can ooze an oily, yellowish or whitish substance.

When to see a doctor?
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How does an earlobe cyst affect me?

You need to see a doctor for an earlobe cyst if:

  • It turns painful, red or swollen, which can mean it’s infected.
  • Size of the cyst increases, becomes larger.
  • You see thick or odd fluid draining from the cyst.
  • The cyst doesn’t go away after a few weeks, or start to hurt.
  • You don’t have any idea if it’s just a cyst or something.
The causes
What causes earlobe cyst?

Blocked oil gland: These glands help keep your skin soft and supple, and a blocked gland can cause a cyst.

Injury or trauma: After injury or discomfort from a piercing, for example, a cyst can appear when the skin heals unevenly.

Keratin buildup: Sometimes a protein in your skin known as keratin accumulates beneath the skin and forms a cyst.

Genetic conditions: Genetics may play a role as some people are more likely to develop cysts due to family history.

The risk factors
Who is at risk for earlobe cysts?
  • Possessing a genetic condition, such as Gardner syndrome, that raises the risk of cysts.
  • Post-puberty, as cysts are rare in children and infants.
  • Acne-prone skin can more easily get fluid-filled bumps.
  • Skin cells multiply due to skin injuries causing it to respond abnormally and form lumps deeper into the skin.
The complications
Are there dangers if left untreated?
  • The cyst can become red, swollen and tender to the touch and may leak pus.

  • If the cyst get infected, it may lead to form fibrous tissue around it form an abscess, a painful collection of pus.

  • A cyst may also rupture and release keratin, which can cause irritation, inflammation or infection.

  • Surgical removal may cause the body to make too much scar tissue and might leave you with earlobe keloids.

  • Possibility that the cyst can recur even after it’s treated or removed.

The prevention
Why is hygiene most important for ear piercings?

Washing your ear piercings regularly removes bacteria and oils that can clog glands and produce cysts. The area will be clean and also less risk of infection when using a soft cleaning solution.

Cleaning tips.

You usually only want to clean your piercings once a day, especially while they’re healing, to prevent infection. Overcleaning can lead to skin irritation and make the situation worse.

How can injuries cause cysts?

A cyst may develop after trauma to the ear, including piercing or bumping, which can clog oil glands. If the glands are blocked, the skin becomes inflamed and damaged, and can also develop a cyst and might develop to keloid scars.

Protecting your earlobes.

Treat your earlobes delicately particularly after a fresh piercing. Avoid tight and heavy jewellery, which can irritate or injure your earlobe.

How does healthy skin help prevent cysts?

Skin is less likely to become blocked, and less prone to cysts if it’s healthy. When you do regular cleansing and moisturising, it makes your skin balanced and prevents cyst formation.

Tips for healthy skin.

Use gentle skin care products and avoid irritating chemicals. Moisturize the skin and do not pick at any bumps or cysts that form.

What is the importance of wearing hypoallergenic jewellery?

Hypoallergenic materials like titanium or surgical steel will not irritate your skin, which helps to stop cysts forming. The right materials can shield your skin.

Types of jewellery to avoid.

Say no to jewellery with nickel or low quality metals that can cause irritation. Wear only safe metal, skin-friendly jewellery like gold or titanium.

When is the best time to seek professional help?

A doctor can assist if cysts keep recurring. They might provide treatments such as draining or removal and also advise how to prevent cysts in the future.

Simple procedure to remove cyst.

A doctor can remove it by surgical intervention, or drain a recurring cyst and advise how to keep them from reforming. They may also suggest changes to your skin care or lifestyle.

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    Why is hygiene most important for ear piercings?
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    How can injuries cause cysts?
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    How does healthy skin help prevent cysts?
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    What is the importance of wearing hypoallergenic jewellery?
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    When is the best time to seek professional help?
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