Sebaceous cysts are lumps containing waste substances. [1]
A cyst may appear When a duct underneath the skin gets blocked with such substances.
You may have sebaceous cysts on your back, neck, face and even on your head. [3]
Sebaceous cysts are mostly harmless and not painful. But there’s always the risk of the cyst getting infected, and the situation can get worse. [4]
Some essential oils have antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory effects against different skin disorders. These oils may help you to get rid of sebaceous cysts or at least reduce their appearance.
Best Essential Oils for Sebaceous Cysts
1. German Chamomile Essential Oil
German chamomile essential oil is quite famous for inflammatory skin conditions. For instance: allergies, eczema, boils, and cysts. [5]
You can get relief from sebaceous cysts using German chamomile essential oil. The oil is anti-inflammatory and gives a soothing effect on your skin.
The oil penetrates to the deep layers of your skin and promotes healing of the cyst.
How to use german chamomile oil to treat sebaceous cysts:
Mix two drops of german chamomile oil with a tablespoon of coconut oil and apply over the cyst.
2. Tea Tree Essential Oil
Tea tree oil comes from Tea tree or Melaleuca Alternifolia plant.
The oil is effective in treating many skin problems. [6]
Tea tree oil may be a good option for treating sebaceous cysts as well.
The oil has great anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties.
Both adults and children may use tea tree oil safely.
An easy method of using tea tree essential oil for cysts:
Mix a few drops of tea tree essential oil with two tablespoons of coconut oil and apply on your cyst. Cover the area with a band-aid and repeat the process daily.
READ MORE: Tea Tree Oil for Keloids: 10 Natural Remedies
3. Lavender Essential Oil
Lavender oil is one of the safest essential oils.
It has a calming effect that can soothe any inflammation or irritation of the skin. [7]
The oil is versatile and is applicable for both adults and children of any age.
Lavender oil has antifungal, antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties. It may help treating sebaceous cysts. [8]
An easy way to use lavender essential oil for cysts:
Dilute a few drops of lavender oil with coconut or jojoba oil and apply on your cyst.
READ MORE: 11 Health Benefits of Lavender Oil That You Should Know
4. Bergamot Essential Oil
Bergamot oil is effective in curing many skin conditions. Such as eczema, acne and skin discoloration.
It has strong anti-inflammatory, antifungal, and antiseptic properties. It may be a good option for treating sebaceous cysts. [9]
The oil can provide relief to your affected skin and protect it from infections.
Learn how you may use bergamot essential oil for sebaceous cysts:
Dilute a few drops of bergamot essential oil with a tablespoon of and apply on your cyst.
Bergamot essential oil is photosensitive. Thus, you can’t apply this before going under direct sunlight. The best option is to apply the oil during the night before going to sleep.
5. Frankincense Essential Oil
Frankincense essential oil is very gentle to the skin.
The oil has great healing properties that can cure wounds [10].
Frankincense essential oil is a strong astringent that protects your skin cells.
On its proper application, it can make your cysts shrink in size and thus heal it faster.
How to use frankincense oil for cysts:
Put one drop of frankincense essential oil over your cyst. Repeat every day to treat a sebaceous cyst naturally.
6. Grapefruit Essential Oil
Grapefruit essential oil is gaining popularity in curing cysts these days.
The oil can melt any fatty elements. Sebaceous cysts contain pus and fatty substances. By melting the fats, grapefruit essential oil can reduce the size of the cyst. [11]
Also, its antimicrobial properties may protect your skin from painful infections.
How to use grapefruit essential oil for cysts:
The best way of using this oil is to put one to drop of it straight on your cyst. But consult a doctor first if you are on any medication.
Other Natural Oils for Cysts
7. Castor Oil
Castor oil comes from the seeds or beans of castor plants (Ricinus communis L.).
This vegetable oil is an important ingredient in producing coatings, soaps and lubricants. [12]
Castor plants are rich in phytochemicals such as flavonoids, alkaloids, saponins, etc. These important constituents have antioxidant, antiasthmatic, anti-ulcer, anti-diabetic, and anti-inflammatory, and antimicrobial effects. [13]
Castor oil is non-edible. You should avoid ingesting it. Doing so may prove to be toxic.
However a topical application of the oil in recommended dosage may treat bacterial skin infections such as acne, cysts, etc.
How to use castor oil for cysts:
Apply 1 drop of castor oil on the cysts. A regular use may reduce the appearance of the cysts.
Note: Castor oil may only treat bacterial cysts. You should always prefer using 100% organic castor oil for cysts treatment.
8. Coconut Oil
Coconut oil is a popular natural ingredient for skin and hair care.
The oil contains medium-chain fatty acids.
The important constituents of the oil are capric acid, lauric acid, and caprylic acid.
Among these components lauric acid has the most inhibitory effects against bacterial infection. [14]
A recent study confirm the efficacy of virgin coconut oil in treating skin inflammations. The oil works as an emollient to the dry and irritated skin as well. [15]
How to use coconut oil for cysts:
You can apply a few drops of coconut oil on the cysts. Leave it on the skin. Coconut oil doesn’t pose any side effects.
Useful Tips and Warnings
- Never skip the step of dilution while using potent essential oils for cysts. [Except for the ones instructed for direct application]
- Don’t put too much oil on your skin as it will be a mess.
- Emotional stability is very important for any health issue. Do things that make you happy and opt for mental satisfaction.
- If you have allergic reactions to using any of the above essential oils, refrain from using it.
- If you are on medicines, talk to your doctor before the application of essential oils to double check.
- Maintain good hygiene and drink lots of water.
Conclusion
Sebaceous cysts are not harmful. You may treat them to a great extent with the help of some essential oils. [2]
You need to consult a doctor if your cyst catches a secondary infection. Or if it becomes painful and irritating.
All the natural oils described here have shown antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory effects in various research.
These oils may reduce skin inflammation, inhibit bacterial infection, and soothe the irritated skin.
You need to follow the recommended dosage and procedure while using essential oils for sebaceous cysts.
READ NEXT: 8 Best Essential Oils for Ganglion Cyst with Easy DIY Recipes
