Castor oil for eliminating sebaceous cysts?

Particularly found in individuals suffering from cystic or nodular acne, sebaceous cysts present as a hard, rounded lump under the skin, which can measure up to 5 cm. As their name suggests, the formation of sebaceous cysts is closely linked to the pilosebaceous follicles and results from a rupture of these structures, due to an accumulation of sebum or keratin. They are most commonly found on the scalp, ears, and upper arms, although they can be present on other parts of the body. Initially benign, cysts can become infected if they are handled or pierced. They then turn red and painful and can fill with pus. Although some uninfected cysts may resolve on their own, dermatological intervention may sometimes be necessary to remove them.

Despite its numerous benefits for the skin, the castor oil does not appear to have any effect on sebaceous cysts and there is no scientific evidence to support this.

The only way to remove a sebaceous cyst that does not disappear spontaneously is to consult a dermatological surgeon. If the cyst is neither infected nor in an inflammatory phase, it can be removed directly. The surgical procedure generally lasts between 15 and 20 minutes. It can be performed either in a dermatology clinic or in an operating theatre. This intervention requires local anaesthesia and the patient can then resume their activities. It should be noted that the removal of a cyst almost always leaves a scar on the skin which fades over time. In the case of an infected cyst, antibiotics are prescribed. Once the infection is contained, the operation can be performed.

Note : Using castor oil, known for its anti-inflammatory properties, on an inflamed cyst is a misguided idea. Indeed, castor oil has a rather greasy texture and needs to be applied through massage to properly penetrate the skin. However, it is strongly advised against touching a sebaceous cyst, especially when it is in an inflammatory phase, as this could cause an infection or worsen an existing one.

If you are unsure whether the lump under your skin is a benign sebaceous cyst, it is imperative to seek advice from a health professional to rule out any risk of cancer.

• ZUBER T. & al. Minimal Excision Technique for Epidermoid (Sebaceous) Cysts. American Family Physician (2002).

• MARWAT S. K. & co. Review - Ricinus communis - traditional medicinal uses and pharmacological activities. Pakistan Journal of Pharmaceutical Sciences (2017).

• SOLIVETTI F. & al. Sonographic visualisation of sebaceous cysts. Our experience and a review of the literature. International Journal of Dermatology (2019).