A pilonidal cyst is a small, typically painful bump or lump that forms near your tailbone, right at the top end of your buttock crease. Most cysts form when a hair is trapped inside your skin, and your body responds by forming a pocket — or cyst — around it.
More common than you might think, pilonidal cysts can cause complications, like pain and even deep infection, unless they’re managed promptly. In this post, Michael H. Tarlowe, MD, reviews six factors that could be contributing to your cyst, so you can seek care that can relieve your discomfort, prevent infection, and decrease your risk of developing additional cysts in the future.
Pilonidal cysts happen far more frequently in men than in women. In fact, data show that about 20% of pilonidal cyst cases happen in women, with the remaining 80% occurring in men.
That difference is probably due to several factors, including more body hair and increased sweating in the area, as well as generally deeper buttock clefts.
Hormonal differences may also play a role, especially during puberty and early adulthood, when hair growth and oil production increase. Together, these factors combine and likely contribute to the gender disparity,
Many pilonidal cysts form when hair is trapped in the hair follicle or irritates it, leading to cysts and infection. These problems are more likely to occur in someone with a lot of hair in the lower back or buttock area, or with very thick or coarse hair. In fact, the name “pilonidal” literally means “hair nest.”
It’s tempting to think shaving the area can help, but actually, you could wind up increasing the risk of ingrown hairs and irritation. In recent years, laser hair removal has emerged as a safe, highly effective treatment for pilonidal cyst prevention, especially in people with a history of cysts.
Laser hair removal targets hair at its root, avoiding pressure, friction, and irritation associated with shaving. The result: long-lasting reduction in hair growth, as well as a decreased risk of pilonidal cysts in the future.
It’s true, you can develop a pilonidal cyst at any age. But it’s also true that these cysts tend to first show up in younger males. That’s probably because during these early years, oil production tends to be higher, and hair growth increases, as well.
These changes make the skin in the tailbone area more prone to irritation and clogged follicles, in turn leading to cysts. As we get older and these changes “level out,” your risk of developing a cyst may be lower.
Pressure and friction are influential factors in pilonidal cyst development. If you sit for long periods, pressure on your tailbone increases the risk of hair entrapment and irritation.
Desk jobs, extended commutes, hours-long video game sessions, and even long study periods can all increase pressure on the buttocks and lower back, as can a generally sedentary lifestyle. Limited airflow and perspiration in the area can make the problem even worse.
Carrying extra pounds increases pressure and friction in the buttocks area, too. That extra weight creates folds that trap heat and moisture, increasing the risks of irritation and bacterial growth.
Over time, these factors also increase the risk of cyst formation and skin infections. Maintaining a healthy weight helps reduce pressure and friction, and regular hygiene can keep the area clean and dry.
Finally, sometimes even your genes can play a role. People who have close family members with pilonidal cysts may also be more likely to develop cysts themselves.
This link could be due to an inherited cleft or buttock shape or a genetic predisposition to coarse hair or excess sweating. Knowing your family history can help you take preventive measures, such as being especially diligent with your hygiene routine or limiting sedentary activities.
If your pilonidal cyst isn’t causing symptoms right now, Dr. Tarlowe may advise monitoring the cyst, along with lifestyle changes, like losing weight or optimizing your hygiene routine. Cysts that cause pain or show signs of infection need to be drained and treated with medication or other approaches to provide relief and prevent complications.
If you have a pilonidal cyst or you think you might have one, prompt evaluation is the key to avoiding more serious problems. To schedule your evaluation, call 954-210-7127 or request an appointment online with Dr. Tarlowe in Deerfield Beach, Florida, today.
