Pimple vs. Cyst — What's the Difference?
By Fiza Rafique & Maham Liaqat — Updated on April 15, 2024
Pimples are small, inflamed skin lesions typically caused by clogged pores, while cysts are larger, deeper skin abnormalities that can contain fluid or other substances.
Difference Between Pimple and Cyst
Table of Contents
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Key Differences
Pimples are a common skin condition often resulting from blocked hair follicles that become inflamed or infected with bacteria. Whereas cysts are larger, closed pockets of tissue that may fill with fluid, pus, or other material.
Pimples generally develop due to hormonal changes, especially during puberty, leading to oily skin and bacterial growth. On the other hand, cysts can form due to infections, clogged sebaceous glands, or around foreign bodies.
The treatment for pimples usually involves topical creams and good skincare practices to reduce oiliness and bacteria. Cysts, however, may require more invasive treatments such as drainage or surgical removal, depending on their cause and severity.
Pimples typically resolve within a few days to weeks with proper care, and they frequently occur on the face, back, and chest. Cysts can persist for much longer periods and may occur anywhere on the body, including under the skin.
Pimples are a surface skin issue and are part of acne, which affects many people worldwide. Cysts, while also affecting many, are less common as a chronic condition and can sometimes indicate more serious underlying health issues.
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Comparison Chart
Definition
A small, inflamed skin lesion due to clogged pores.
A large, encapsulated lesion with potential fluid content.
Common Causes
Hormonal changes, bacteria, excess oil.
Infections, genetic conditions, chronic inflammatory conditions.
Treatment
Topical creams, antibiotics, skincare routines.
Drainage, surgical removal, antibiotics.
Duration and Recurrence
Short-term, often recurrent.
Long-lasting, may not recur if properly treated.
Typical Location
Face, back, chest.
Can occur anywhere on the body, including internal organs.
Compare with Definitions
Pimple
Often filled with pus.
He applied a cream to reduce the redness of the pimples.
Cyst
Often requires medical treatment to resolve.
The cyst was removed through a minor surgical procedure.
Pimple
Treated with skincare products.
Using the right skincare products can prevent pimples.
Cyst
Not typically associated with acne.
Unlike pimples, cysts are not a direct result of oily skin.
Pimple
Can cause discomfort or embarrassment.
She used makeup to cover her pimples.
Cyst
Can occur beneath the skin or on internal organs.
An ovarian cyst may require surgical intervention.
Pimple
Common in acne-prone skin.
Pimples are a regular issue for teenagers.
Cyst
A closed pocket of tissue that can contain fluid or air.
The doctor diagnosed the lump on his back as a cyst.
Pimple
A small, raised spot on the skin caused by clogged pores.
She noticed a pimple on her chin in the morning.
Cyst
Can be painless or painful, depending on the location and size.
Her wrist cyst was painless until it started to grow.
Pimple
A pimple is a kind of comedo that results from excess sebum and dead skin cells getting trapped in the pores of the skin. In its aggravated state, it may evolve into a pustule or papules.
Cyst
A cyst is a closed sac, having a distinct envelope and division compared with the nearby tissue. Hence, it is a cluster of cells that have grouped together to form a sac (like the manner in which water molecules group together to form a bubble); however, the distinguishing aspect of a cyst is that the cells forming the "shell" of such a sac are distinctly abnormal (in both appearance and behaviour) when compared with all surrounding cells for that given location.
Pimple
A small swelling of the skin, usually caused by acne; a papule or pustule.
Cyst
An abnormal membranous sac in the body containing a gaseous, liquid, or semisolid substance.
Pimple
(dermatology) An inflamed (raised and colored) spot on the surface of the skin that is usually painful and fills with pus.
Cyst
A sac or vesicle in the body.
Pimple
(slang) An annoying person.
Cyst
(Biology) A small capsulelike sac that encloses certain organisms in their dormant or larval stage.
Pimple
(Cockney rhyming slang) Scotch whisky
Pimple and blotch
Cyst
(Botany) A thick-walled resting spore, as in certain algae or fungi.
Pimple
To develop pimples
Cyst
A pouch or sac without opening, usually membranous and containing morbid matter, which develops in one of the natural cavities or in the substance of an organ.
Pimple
Any small acuminated elevation of the cuticle, whether going on to suppuration or not.
Cyst
(medicine) Of or pertaining to the urinary bladder or gall bladder (in compounds).
Cystectomy, cystitis, cystoscopy
Pimple
Fig.: A swelling or protuberance like a pimple.
Cyst
A pouch or sac without opening, usually membranous and containing morbid matter, which is accidentally developed in one of the natural cavities or in the substance of an organ.
Pimple
A small inflamed elevation of the skin; a pustule or papule; common symptom in acne
Cyst
One of the bladders or air vessels of certain algæ, as of the great kelp of the Pacific, and common rockweeds (Fuci) of our shores.
Cyst
A small capsule or sac of the kind in which many immature entozoans exist in the tissues of living animals; also, a similar form in Rotifera, etc.
Cyst
A closed sac that develops abnormally in some body structure
Cyst
A small anatomically normal sac or bladderlike structure (especially one containing fluid)
Common Curiosities
What causes cysts?
Cysts may be caused by infections, blocked ducts, or genetic conditions.
Are cysts dangerous?
Most cysts are benign but can sometimes indicate serious conditions.
Can pimples lead to scars?
Yes, especially if they are picked or squeezed improperly.
What is a pimple?
A pimple is a small, inflamed spot on the skin caused by clogged pores.
How can pimples be treated?
Pimples can be treated with topical creams, good hygiene, and sometimes medication.
Can cysts go away on their own?
Some cysts may resolve on their own, while others require medical intervention.
What skincare routine is best for preventing pimples?
A routine that includes cleansing, exfoliating, and moisturizing tailored to skin type.
How are cysts diagnosed?
Through clinical examination and sometimes imaging tests.
What types of cysts are there?
There are many types, including sebaceous, ovarian, and dermoid cysts.
Do pimples only occur during puberty?
No, pimples can occur at any age, though they are more common during puberty.
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Written by
Fiza RafiqueFiza Rafique is a skilled content writer at AskDifference.com, where she meticulously refines and enhances written pieces. Drawing from her vast editorial expertise, Fiza ensures clarity, accuracy, and precision in every article. Passionate about language, she continually seeks to elevate the quality of content for readers worldwide.
Co-written by
Maham Liaqat
