How do I get rid of a lump in my earlobe?

Removing the cyst means it is less likely to come back, but the draining option, while quick and easy, means the cyst is more likely to return.

Sometimes benign cysts will go away without treatment.

Why do I have a lump in my earlobe?

It is not uncommon to have lumps or bumps on the earlobe. These lumps, which look similar to pimples, are benign cysts. An earlobe cyst is also known as an epidermoid cyst.

These occur when epidermis cells that should have been shed get deeper into the skin and multiply, forming the walls of the cyst. They secrete a type of protein called keratin which fills up the cyst.

Other causes of earlobe cysts include damaged hair follicles or oil glands or they also tend to run in families. Sometimes they can form for no reason at all. They are generally no cause of concern.

However, there are a number of factors which can put an individual at a higher risk of earlobe cysts:

• Having a rare syndrome or genetic disorder
• Being past the age of puberty (earlobe cysts are rare in babies and children)
• Having acne issues means the skin is more prone to developing lumps of fluid
• Skin injuries that cause cells to react in an abnormal way and bury themselves deeper into the skin, causing a lump to form

How long does it take for a lump in your ear to go away?

Benign earlobe cysts can go on their own, but the length of time this can take varies from person to person. Sometimes these lumps can only go away with treatment.