Cyst Near a Boil: Causes, Differences, and Care

Finding a cyst near a boil can be confusing and uncomfortable. While both look like lumps under the skin, they are different conditions—and sometimes they can occur together.

What’s the Difference?

• Cyst:

  • A closed sac under the skin filled with fluid, keratin, or sebum.

  • Usually painless, firm, and slow-growing.

  • Common types: epidermoid cysts, sebaceous cysts, and pilar cysts.

• Boil (Furuncle):

  • A skin infection starting in a hair follicle or oil gland.

  • Red, swollen, painful lump filled with pus.

  • Often warm to the touch and may burst or drain.

Why a Cyst and Boil Might Appear Together

• A cyst can become infected, turning into a boil-like lump.

• Poor hygiene, excess sweating, or friction may contribute.

• Areas with frequent shaving or hair growth (armpits, groin, scalp, buttocks) are common sites.

Symptoms to Watch For

• Cyst: Smooth lump, skin-colored or slightly yellow, usually not tender.

• Boil: Painful, red, swollen lump with a visible “head” of pus.

• Infected cyst: Redness, swelling, pain, and pus drainage—essentially behaving like a boil.

At-Home Care (For Mild Cases)

• Warm compress: Apply for 15–20 minutes, 2–3 times daily to encourage drainage and healing.

• Gentle cleansing: Wash the area with mild soap and water; pat dry.

• Don’t squeeze or pop: This can worsen infection or cause scarring.

• Over-the-counter pain relief: Ibuprofen or acetaminophen can ease discomfort.

When to See a Doctor

• Severe pain, spreading redness, or fever (sign of infection spreading).

• The lump keeps growing or comes back repeatedly.

• Pus drainage with foul odor.

• Multiple boils or cysts appearing together.

• If you have underlying conditions like diabetes or a weakened immune system.

Medical Treatments

• Drainage: Doctor may safely lance and drain a boil or infected cyst.

• Antibiotics: Prescribed if infection is present.

• Surgical removal: For recurrent or bothersome cysts.

Bottom line: A cyst is usually harmless and painless, while a boil is painful and infected. If a cyst near a boil becomes red, swollen, and filled with pus, it may need medical care. Never squeeze at home—safe removal and treatment by a doctor is best.