Under-eye oil cysts are small, hard bumps that form due to the blockage of the oil glands around the eyes. This condition may generally be caused by factors such as hormonal changes, stress, inadequate sleep, and poor dietary habits. When the oil glands are blocked, swelling and dark circles can occur under the eyes. To get rid of under-eye oil cysts, regular sleep, balanced nutrition, proper skincare, and avoiding stress are important.
What is an Under-Eye Oil Cyst?
An under-eye oil cyst is a small and round cystic structure formed by the accumulation of fat cells or a keratin-containing structure under the skin. These cysts, which are millimetric in size, can grow and become more visible over time. Usually painless, these nodules appear as small white or yellow nodules under the skin.
Although these cysts are mostly defined as milia, they may sometimes be confused with lipoma or other dermal cystic structures.
What Causes Under-Eye Oil Cysts?
Although there is no definite cause, under-eye oil cysts are known to form as a result of fat accumulation under the skin. Primary causes include genetic predisposition, hormonal changes, stress, insufficient sleep, poor dietary habits, and incorrect skincare product usage.
Common triggering factors for oil cyst formation:
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Skin type: More common in individuals with oily and combination skin types.
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Inappropriate cosmetic products for the eye area: Using cosmetic products unsuitable for one's skin type can block the glands around the eyes and trigger oil cyst formation.
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Slowed skin renewal: With advancing age, the skin's ability to renew itself may decrease.
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Sun damage: UV rays can weaken the skin barrier.
What are the Symptoms of Under-Eye Oil Cysts?
Under-eye oil cysts may manifest with specific characteristics. They typically form a small, hard, and raised structure on the eyelid or under-eye area. These nodules can be white, yellow, or close to skin tone and are painless and do not cause itching.
Oil cysts can be distinct on the skin's surface. In some cases, they may be numerous and cause a troubling appearance.
How Do Under-Eye Oil Cysts Heal?
Small milia formations, known as under-eye oil cysts, can disappear spontaneously. However, in many cases, these formations are permanent and will not heal through methods like squeezing or puncturing at home. Uninformed interventions can lead to infection risks and scars on the skin.
Using daily moisturizers, maintaining a healthy diet, consuming sufficient water, applying cold compresses to the under-eye area, and caring with natural oils can alleviate the appearance of the cysts. If your symptoms persist or worsen, it may be necessary to seek help from a dermatologist.
Under-Eye Oil Cyst Treatment
Under-eye oil cysts are mostly addressed due to cosmetic concerns. During any procedure applied to the eye area, careful attention must be paid to eye health. The following methods can be used in the treatment of milia:
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Laser Treatment: Laser treatment can be used in treating under-eye oil cysts. Laser beams focus on the oil cyst tissue from the skin's surface. However, considering the sensitivity of this area, it is recommended that the procedure be supervised by an eye doctor.
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Chemical Peeling: Chemical peeling can be applied to clean dead cells accumulated under the skin and prevent the formation of oil cysts. This method reduces the development of these problems by purifying the skin's surface.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do under-eye oil cysts go away on their own?
Some small and superficial milia cysts can be absorbed by the skin over time and disappear on their own. However, most under-eye oil cysts are permanent and do not go away without external intervention.
Are under-eye oil cysts harmful?
Under-eye oil cysts are typically benign formations and do not pose a direct health risk. However, they can cause cosmetic concerns and, in some cases, lead to irritation or cosmetic discomfort on the skin surface.
Do under-eye oil cysts recur?
After treatment, new oil cysts can form in the same area or nearby. This situation is more common in individuals with genetic predisposition, oily skin types, or those using unsuitable cosmetic products.
Are under-eye oil cysts a sign of cancer?
No, under-eye oil cysts are generally benign structures and are not associated with cancer. However, not every lump in the skin may be an oil cyst. If there is sudden growth, shape change, color difference, or sensitivity, it should be evaluated by a specialist physician.