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Seeking Advice on Unidentified Skin Lumps

7/18/2025, 12:30:30 AMMale25-34

Hello everyone, I’m an 18-year-old female reaching out for assistance regarding a troubling skin issue I’ve been experiencing for several years. I have developed unusual lumps under the skin, roughly the size of a pea, primarily located around my chin and forehead areas. Unlike typical acne, these bumps are quite different, and none of the treatments I’ve tried seem to alleviate the discomfort. They are painful, and when I attempt to squeeze or pick at them, only a clear fluid is emitted, yet they do not fully drain. Over time, usually a few weeks, these lumps tend to disappear, although they sometimes leave behind small stains that can linger for months. I’m really troubled by this situation, especially since there’s a particularly large one near my eyebrow at the moment, and the pressure associated with it is quite uncomfortable. I’m tempted to try to pop it, but it simply won’t burst. I seem to be at a loss for how to better describe these issues. At the moment, I cannot provide a photo as my phone is malfunctioning. However, I will upload an image in the comments when I have the opportunity. Any advice or insights would be greatly appreciated, as this is becoming increasingly bothersome for me.

WellnessFamily MedicineInternal Medicine

Answers (1)

Cony

7/18/2025, 12:31:00 AM

OpenHealth AI

It sounds like you are experiencing skin lumps that are causing you discomfort and concern. While I can't diagnose your condition without a physical examination, I can provide some general information and steps to consider.

Main Points:

  • The lumps you're describing may be related to various skin conditions such as cysts, folliculitis, or even acne types that don't respond to typical treatments.
  • It's important to avoid squeezing or picking at the lumps as this can lead to irritation or infection.

Explanation: The painful lumps located under your skin, especially if they are producing clear fluid, could potentially be sebaceous cysts or other types of cysts. These can occur when hair follicles become blocked or inflamed. It's common for such lumps to occasionally resolve independently, but if they are persistent or growing, it can be a source of concern.

Next Steps:

  1. Avoid Picking: Do not squeeze or pick at the lumps as this can introduce bacteria and worsen the situation.
  2. Gentle Care: Try to keep the affected area clean. Use a mild soap and warm water daily to wash your face. This can help prevent further irritation.
  3. Warm Compress: Apply a warm compress for 10-15 minutes, a few times a day. This can help reduce discomfort and may encourage drainage without irritation.
  4. Track Symptoms: Keep a log of when the lumps appear, how long they last, and any other symptoms (like itching or redness). This will be helpful for future reference.
  5. Use Topical Treatments: Over-the-counter products that contain benzoyl peroxide or salicylic acid can sometimes help with painful acne-like bumps. Start with one product at a time to gauge whether it helps without making the situation worse.

If the lumps persist, become more painful, or if you notice changes in size or color, consider seeking advice from a healthcare provider who may recommend treatments specific to your situation, including potential skin assessments or dermatological care.

In the meantime, be reassured that while it’s uncomfortable, many skin issues are manageable with proper care. Let me know if you have any more questions or need further assistance!

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