Difference Between a Cyst and a Pimple - Causes, Symptoms, and Treatments

What's the Difference Between a Cyst and a Pimple?

It can sometimes be hard to tell the difference between a cyst and a pimple. Both may appear as bumps or lumps on the skin that can be painful or sore. However, cysts and pimples have some distinct differences in what causes them to form, their appearance, and how they should be treated.

Causes

Acne pimples form when pores become clogged with excess oil, dead skin cells, and bacteria. The most common locations are the face, back, chest, and shoulders. Hormonal changes, genetics, stress, and certain medications can trigger pimple outbreaks.

Cysts develop deeper underneath the skin and are usually not associated with acne. They form out of defects in the development of the skin structure. Common locations include the face, neck, torso, and groin. Cysts can run in families or result from medical conditions like polycystic ovary syndrome.

Appearance

Pimples tend to be small, ranging from 2 to 5 mm. They have a whitehead if the clogged pore remains closed, or a blackhead if the pore is open. Pimples are surrounded by mild redness and inflammation of the skin.

Cysts typically range from 5 mm to a few centimeters. They tend to be larger, deeper bumps. Cysts are fluid-filled sacs that feel smooth and firm to the touch. The skin around a cyst is usually normal.

Contents

Pimples are filled with a mixture of oil, dead cells, and bacteria. The contents are mildly infectious.

Cysts contain keratin protein, sebum, and skin cell debris. The contents are not infectious.

Pain

Pimples can be mildly painful due to inflammation of the skin around them. The pain is usually tolerable.

Cysts can be quite painful due to the larger size and pressure exerted on surrounding tissues. Pain may worsen with activity or touch.

Treating Pimples

Here are some ways to treat acne pimples:

Over-the-Counter Medications

Products containing benzoyl peroxide, salicylic acid, sulfur, or retinol can unplug pores and reduce pimples. Look for medicated cleansers, creams, pads, gels or solutions.

Prescription Medications

For moderate to severe acne, dermatologists may prescribe topical or oral antibiotics to kill bacteria, retinoids like tretinoin to normalize skin cell turnover, anti-androgen medicines to lower testosterone, or oral contraceptives for women.

In-Office Treatments

Dermatologists can perform extractions to remove blackheads and whiteheads. Light and laser therapies help kill acne bacteria. Chemical peels remove dead skin cells and product buildup inside pores.

Home Remedies

Natural antibacterials like tea tree oil, aloe vera gel, honey, and diluted essential oils can help manage mild acne when applied topically. Avoid excessive scrubbing which can worsen inflammation.

Lifestyle Measures

A healthy diet, daily face washing, regular exercise, and stress management techniques also support acne healing and prevention.

Treating Cysts

Here are tips to treat cysts:

Warm Compresses

Applying warm, wet compresses for 10-15 minutes 3-4 times a day can help promote drainage and softening of cysts, relieving pressure and discomfort.

Medications

Oral antibiotics may be prescribed to reduce infection risk. Intralesional corticosteroid injections administered by a dermatologist help decrease inflammation and speed up cyst shrinkage.

Incision and Drainage

Large, painful cysts may need to be drained by a dermatologist. A small incision is made to remove the contents, then the space is packed with gauze to allow further drainage and prevent premature closure.

Oral Contraceptives

Hormonal birth control pills can effectively improve hormonal cystic acne in women. The estrogen helps decrease testosterone production.

Cryotherapy

Liquid nitrogen may be applied to swollen cysts to freeze and destroy overgrown cells if other treatments are ineffective. Mild scarring can occur.

Acid Peels

Chemical peels with glycolic acid can remove excess outer skin layers and improve the appearance of firm scars sometimes left behind by cysts on the face, back and chest.

When to See a Doctor

Consult a dermatologist if you experience:

• Large, painful cysts
• Cysts that persist for several months
• Signs of infection like pus, fever or redness
• Scarring from previous cysts
• Many cysts forming regularly

A doctor can properly diagnose the type of cyst, rule out serious underlying conditions, and provide appropriate treatment options to resolve them and prevent recurrences.

Home Care of Cysts and Pimples

While waiting for cysts and pimples to clear up, follow these self-care tips:

• Use warm compresses to encourage drainage and soothe pain
• Avoid picking, scratching or popping cysts or pimples to prevent infection
• Keep the area clean with a gentle cleanser and use oil-free non-comedogenic moisturizers
• Shave carefully and avoid irritation from tight clothing
• Apply tea tree oil, benzoyl peroxide or salicylic acid products to affected areas
• Protect cysts and pimples with covered dressings

Give new acne and cyst treatments 2-3 months to work before trying another approach. Be patient, as cysts can take time to resolve fully. See a dermatologist if home care doesn't improve the condition.

When to Choose Medical Procedures

For recurrent cysts or severe acne, prescription medications and in-office treatments yield better results than over-the-counter products. Consider medical procedures if you have:

• Severe inflammatory acne unresponsive to other remedies
• Scarring or discolored skin from old cysts or pimples
• Large cysts lasting for months without shrinking
• Multiple cysts or abscesses requiring drainage

A dermatologist can administer cortisone shots, antimicrobial photodynamic therapy, chemical peels, laser resurfacing, or minor outpatient surgery if needed for stubborn cystic acne cases.

When to Seek Emergency Care

Seek prompt medical care if you experience:

• Rapid increase in cyst size with intense pain
• Very foul-smelling pus oozing from a cyst or pimple
• Fever, confusion, dizziness or other signs of systemic infection
• Difficulty breathing or swallowing due to a cyst

These can indicate a cyst abscess, cellulitis, or other serious complication requiring emergency incision and drainage or IV antibiotics to treat.

Cysts and Pimples Don't Have to Slow You Down

While cystic acne can be frustrating, working with a dermatologist helps determine the best treatment plan for your individual condition. With professional help and diligent self-care, you can minimize cyst and pimple outbreaks, scarring, and discomfort. Don't let bumps on your skin keep you from enjoying life to the fullest!

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new treatment regimen.