Sebum is generated by sebaceous glands of the epidermis. The surface of the skin, or epidermis, comprises of a very thin, safeguarding layer of cells that your body constantly sloughs off. The majority of epidermoid cysts develop when these cells, rather than shedding as usual, travel deeper into the skin and proliferate. Usually, this happens in parts where there are tiny hair follicles and bigger sebaceous glands, like on the face, neck, groin and upper back. The epidermal cells make up the walls of sebaceous cysts, and then emit the protein keratin into the inner areas. The keratin is the thick yellow matter that occasionally draws off the cyst.

Many factors can result in Sebaceous Cysts. These factors include trauma to the hair follicle, a burst sebaceous gland, developmental abnormality, and genetic factors. Every single hair grows from a follicle, which may be damaged due to occurrences like direct trauma, abrasions or surgical wounds. Found just on top of the hair follicles are sebaceous glands that generate sebum. Skin diseases that come with swelling and irritation can cause these glands to burst easily. Epidermoid cysts can commence in a growing fetus when stem cells purposed to develop skin, nails or hair are caught up in cells developing other tissues.

The major indication is often a small lump under the skin, which is usually not painful. However, if infection occurs, there may be soreness, redness or raised temperature of the skin in the affected parts. There may also be cheesy matter that is grayish-white in color and have an unpleasant odor. This matter could ooze out of the cyst.