Can Cysts Drain on Their Own?

Found a cyst and wondering if you should just wait it out? You’re not the first person to hope that stubborn bump will just disappear on its own. While it’s possible, the reality is more complicated than you might think.

At OC MedDerm in Irvine, Orange County, CA, we often see patients who waited for a cyst to “fix itself,” only to have it return, get infected, or become more uncomfortable.

Let’s talk about what actually happens when cysts “drain themselves” and why that’s usually not the best-case scenario.

What’s Really Going on With Cysts

Cysts aren’t your typical pimples that come to a head and pop. They form when a hair follicle or pore gets blocked deep in your skin. Your body responds by creating a pocket filled with sebum, bacteria, and dead skin cells. Over time, this pocket gets bigger and more inflamed.

Think of it like a balloon filled with thick, sticky stuff buried under your skin. Unlike surface pimples, these don’t have an easy way out.

Can Cysts Actually Drain by Themselves?

The short answer? Sometimes, but it’s usually not pretty.

Here’s what can happen:

Your body might slowly reabsorb the contents. This is the best-case scenario, but it’s uncommon and can take months or years.

The cyst might rupture internally. Instead of draining out through your skin, it bursts into the surrounding tissue. This often makes things worse by spreading infection and causing more inflammation.

It might break through the skin surface. When this happens, you’ll see drainage, but it often leaves behind an open wound that can scar or get infected.

The problem? Even when a cyst drains on its own, the sac wall usually stays behind. That means there’s a good chance it’ll fill up again and come back in the same spot.

What Happens When You Just Wait It Out

Leaving a cyst alone seems tempting, but here’s what you’re risking:

Persistent Pain and Swelling

Cysts can stay active for weeks or months, causing ongoing soreness. If yours is on your back, jawline, or anywhere that rubs against clothing, you’re in for a long, uncomfortable ride.

Scarring and Skin Discoloration

The longer a cyst hangs around, the more likely it is to leave permanent marks. Deep cysts can damage collagen and elastin, leading to pitted scars or dark spots that stick around long after the cyst is gone.

Secondary Infections

Here’s where things get really messy. If you try to squeeze or pop a cyst (and let’s be honest, the temptation is real), you can introduce new bacteria. This can turn your cyst into a serious abscess that needs emergency drainage.

The Comeback Tour

Even if your cyst seems to go away, there’s a good chance it’ll return if the underlying blockage isn’t resolved. You could be dealing with the same spot flaring up repeatedly.

Professional Treatment Options That Actually Work

Instead of playing the waiting game, here’s what dermatologists can do:

Cortisone Injections – The Quick Fix

A steroid shot directly into the cyst can reduce inflammation and flatten it within days. It’s fast, minimally invasive, and helps prevent scarring when used early. Many patients see significant improvement within 24-48 hours.

Sterile Drainage and Extraction

For larger or infected cysts, your dermatologist can drain it under sterile conditions. This isn’t something to try at home – improper drainage can push infection deeper or cause permanent damage.

Antibiotics When Needed

If your cyst shows signs of bacterial infection (increasing redness, warmth, pus), oral antibiotics can control the infection and prevent it from spreading.

Hormonal Treatment for Recurring Cysts

If you’re a woman dealing with recurring cystic acne, hormones might be the culprit. Medications like spironolactone or certain birth control pills can regulate hormone levels and reduce flare-ups.

Isotretinoin for Severe Cases

For chronic cystic acne that doesn’t respond to other treatments, isotretinoin (Accutane) might be recommended. This powerful medication reduces oil production and can provide long-term remission, though it requires careful monitoring.

When You Should Definitely See a Doctor

Don’t wait if your cyst:

• Gets bigger rapidly
• Becomes increasingly painful
• Shows signs of infection (red, warm, pus)
• Ruptures and won’t stop draining
• Keeps coming back in the same spot
• Is it affecting your confidence or daily life

What Not to Do at Home

Don’t squeeze or try to pop it. You’ll likely push infected material deeper and make things worse.

Don’t use home remedies like tea tree oil or heating pads. These might feel soothing but won’t address the underlying problem.

Don’t ignore signs of infection. Red streaking, fever, or worsening pain means you need medical attention now.

The Bottom Line

While some cysts might eventually resolve on their own, it’s usually a slow, messy process with no guarantees. Professional treatment is faster, safer, and more likely to prevent the cyst from returning.

Most cyst treatments are quick office procedures that can be done the same day you’re seen. Why suffer through months of discomfort and risk scarring when effective treatment is available?

Get Your Cyst Properly Treated

Tired of dealing with that painful cyst or worried about what it might become? Stop hoping it’ll just go away and get it properly evaluated.

At OC MedDerm (Irvine Skin), we treat cysts and other skin lumps every day. Our dermatologist, Dr Parvin Shafa can quickly assess what you’re dealing with and recommend the most effective treatment. Most procedures can be done during your initial visit.

Whether you need a simple cortisone injection or more comprehensive treatment, we’ll get you comfortable and back to normal quickly.

Ready to get rid of that cyst for good? Contact us today to schedule your evaluation. We’ll explain your options and help you choose the best approach for your situation.

Call us at +1(949) 551-1113 or send us a message to get started. Don’t let a cyst keep causing you pain and worry when effective treatment is this accessible.

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)

Can cysts drain on their own?

Yes, but incompletely. They often rupture internally or refill because the cyst wall stays. Proper treatment at OC MedDerm prevents recurrence.

What happens if a cyst bursts under the skin?

Internal rupture spreads inflammation, increases pain, and can trigger infection. It usually needs professional care.

Should you pop a cyst at home?

No. Popping drives material deeper, causes scarring, and risks infection.

When should I see a dermatologist?

If it’s painful, infected, growing, or recurring.

How are cysts removed?

Dermatologists use cortisone injections, sterile drainage, antibiotics, or surgical removal of the cyst wall.