Boils and cysts are both common types of skin growths. Boils, also called furuncles, are pus-filled infections caused by bacteria entering a hair follicle. Cysts, in contrast, are noncancerous sacs that contain fluid, air, pus, or keratin and often form under the skin.

Both conditions may recur, depending on the underlying cause. Boils are more likely to develop from bacterial exposure or immune system conditions like diabetes. Cysts may occur due to clogged pores, injury, or genetic factors. Although both appear as bumps, their causes, symptoms, and treatments differ significantly.

Symptoms Of Boils Vs. Cysts

Boils and cysts can look alike as they both appear as round lumps on the skin. However, their features differ upon closer inspection.

boils
Appear as red, painful bumps that develop quickly. They often have a yellow or white head and may leak pus. Common areas include the neck, armpits, face, and buttocks. They are usually painful, may itch, and can cause fever or fatigue.

cysts
Usually flesh-colored, slowly growing, and painless unless infected. They have a soft or firm feel with a central black dot and contain keratin. Found on the face, back, chest, and occasionally internal organs like ovaries or lungs.

Differences

While both conditions form bumps, they differ in several important ways, including causes, progression, treatment, and risk of spreading.

different causes
Boils are caused by bacteria—typically Staphylococcus aureus—infecting hair follicles. This results in pus accumulation and tissue inflammation. Cysts, however, are not caused by infections. They form when dead skin cells collect beneath the skin due to poor shedding, clogged pores, or trauma.

home treatments may work for boils but not cysts
Boils often respond to warm compresses and hygiene care. You can apply warm water to the boil several times daily, clean it gently, and use OTC pain relief. Never try to lance it yourself.

For cysts, compresses may help only if infected. Cysts don’t drain on their own and usually require surgical removal for complete resolution.

antibiotics may help with boils but not cysts
Topical or oral antibiotics can treat or prevent infection in boils, especially if the boil bursts. In contrast, antibiotics are only used for cysts if they become infected. Sometimes, corticosteroid injections are used to reduce cyst swelling.

boils may spread
Boils contain contagious bacteria. The pus can cause new boils to form elsewhere on your body or infect others. Proper hygiene is essential. Cysts, on the other hand, are not contagious.

carbuncles
In some cases, multiple boils can merge into a larger abscess called a carbuncle, which is more serious and painful.

Similarities

Though boils and cysts differ, they share some similarities in terms of how they develop and are diagnosed.

both can become chronic
Boils can recur, especially if not fully drained. Recurrent boils are called furunculosis. Cysts may also return if not completely removed. While cysts are typically benign, a doctor may test the tissue to rule out cancer.

diagnosis is similar
Both conditions are often diagnosed through physical exams. Doctors consider how fast the bump developed, its size, and pain level. Swabs or cultures may be taken to identify bacteria, and imaging is rarely needed.

surgery may treat both conditions
If a boil doesn’t drain naturally, doctors may lance it to release pus. For cysts, surgery is the only definitive treatment to prevent recurrence. This can involve excision with a scalpel or CO2 laser under local anesthesia.

never attempt to drain on your own
Draining boils or cysts at home can lead to infection or scarring. Always leave such procedures to healthcare professionals.

Can You Have Both Cysts And Boils?

Yes, it’s possible to have both. Having cysts doesn’t prevent you from getting bacterial infections that cause boils. In fact, infected cysts can resemble boils, so diagnosis by a provider is important.

how to tell the difference
Boils are usually painful and soft, while cysts are firm and painless unless inflamed.

When To Seek Care And Who To Contact

You should see a healthcare provider if you:

  • Have boils on the face or spine

  • Experience fever or fatigue

  • Notice red streaks around the bump

  • Feel intense pain

  • See no improvement after a week of home treatment

  • Develop new or recurring growths

If needed, your provider may refer you to a dermatologist or surgeon. You can use tools from the American Academy of Dermatology to find qualified specialists.

A Quick Review

Boils and cysts both create skin bumps but have different causes. Boils are painful and infected, filled with pus, while cysts are non-infectious and typically painless. Infected cysts, however, can mimic boils.

If you notice unusual growths, especially those that persist, cause pain, or leak fluid, consult a healthcare provider. Prompt diagnosis and treatment can prevent complications and ensure proper healing.