Back
What Causes an Ingrown Hair Cyst?
May 5, 2025
Hair grows out of pores, small openings in the skin that secrete sweat and sebum (oil). An ingrown hair cyst occurs when dirt or oil blocks off a pore, causing a hair to become trapped.
This leads to swelling and looks like a small, red bump. If it becomes infected, an ingrown hair cyst may grow into a large, painful growth.
Ingrown hair cysts are often treatable at home without medical intervention, but you should see a healthcare provider for cysts that become infected.
What Does an Ingrown Hair Cyst Look Like?
An ingrown hair cyst usually appears as a small bump on the skin. It happens when the hair grows into the skin, causing irritation and swelling. The color may be red, pink, or slightly darker than the surrounding skin.
An ingrown hair cyst is usually painless and may feel hard or soft. If it becomes infected, it may become painful or tender.
Different types of cysts exist, and their symptoms vary. Types of ingrown hair cysts include:
Red, raised bumps along shaved areas of the skin
Pilonidal cysts: Small white or yellow bumps usually located at the top of the buttocks
Epidermoid cysts: Raised bumps on the head, neck, trunk, or genitals; they are the color of the surrounding skin
Pilar cysts: Round, raised bumps on the scalp that are the same color as the surrounding skin
3Shares
0Comments
15Favorites
14Likes
No content at this moment.