Randy Chandler
Whiteheads, a type of acne, can sometimes emit a foul odour, which can be due to several factors. The presence of bacteria, the intensity of the acne breakout, and personal hygiene practices can all contribute to the odour. In some cases, the smell of cheese from a whitehead may be caused by an epidermoid cyst, a noncancerous bump under the skin. This occurs when dead skin cells accumulate deep within the skin and do not slough off as they should, resulting in a thick, yellow substance with a cheesy texture and an unpleasant odour. While not typically a cause for concern, it is important to maintain proper hygiene and seek medical advice if necessary.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Cause | Epidermoid cysts, a noncancerous bump under the skin |
| Cyst composition | Thick, yellow substance made of the protein keratin |
| Cyst texture | Cottage-cheese consistency |
| Cyst treatment | Anti-inflammatory injections, drainage, or complete surgical excision |
| Acne treatment | Topical lotions, prescription antibiotics, retinoids, steroids |
| Odor causes | Bacteria, acne severity, personal hygiene practices |
| Bacteria byproducts | Sulfur compounds, smelly substances |
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What You'll Learn
Epidermoid cysts
The distinct odour of cheese from a whitehead is likely due to the presence of an epidermoid cyst. Epidermoid cysts are usually harmless and are characterised by the presence of a foul-smelling, yellowish, cheese-like material. These cysts are noncancerous bumps that form beneath the skin and are typically caused by a blockage of the hair follicle, resulting in a build-up of dead skin cells and sebum that provides an ideal environment for bacteria to thrive.
The formation of epidermoid cysts can be attributed to several factors. One common cause is acne vulgaris, where multiple cysts originate from blocked pores or comedones (whiteheads and blackheads). Traumatic injuries can also lead to their development, as skin damage can compromise the protective barrier, allowing bacteria and other substances to enter and form a cyst. Additionally, certain genetic disorders may increase the likelihood of developing these cysts.
While epidermoid cysts are generally considered benign, they can pose potential risks if they rupture or are improperly manipulated. It is strongly advised against attempting to pop or remove these cysts at home, as this can cause further damage and increase the chances of recurrence. Instead, seeking professional medical assistance is recommended to ensure safe and effective treatment.
The treatment of epidermoid cysts typically involves surgical excision, aiming to remove the entire cyst intact while keeping the cyst wall intact. In cases where excision is not feasible, a healthcare professional may opt to drain the cyst with a needle. If an infection is present, antibiotics may be prescribed to address it.
Although epidermoid cysts are often harmless, they can occasionally become inflamed or infected. Rarely, they may even develop into skin cancer. Therefore, it is important to monitor any changes and consult a dermatologist or healthcare professional if the cyst exhibits signs of redness, swelling, or pain.
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Poor hygiene
Bacteria naturally inhabit our skin and play a crucial role in various processes. However, when these microorganisms encounter favourable conditions, such as blocked pores filled with sebum and dead skin cells, they can contribute to the formation of odour and acne. As acne progresses from mild to more severe stages, it creates a thriving environment for bacteria, including C. acnes, which is known for causing acne and other skin infections.
When your skin is infected, other types of bacteria may be introduced to the area, producing their own set of smelly substances. Poor hygiene practices can exacerbate this process by providing an inviting environment for bacteria to proliferate and produce odour-causing compounds. Keeping the area around the acne clean is critical to reducing odour and preventing secondary infections from bacteria.
It is important to note that the smell of acne, while unpleasant, is usually not a cause for serious concern. However, it may indicate an underlying infection or health condition, especially if the odour is strong. In such cases, it is advisable to consult a dermatologist or healthcare professional for proper assessment and treatment. They can help determine the cause of the odour and provide guidance on improving hygiene practices to manage acne and its associated symptoms effectively.
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Acne conglobata
Acne, a frustrating skin condition, can be even more annoying when accompanied by a certain smell. While an occasional stinky pimple is not uncommon, some scents can indicate a more serious skin issue. For instance, if your whiteheads smell like cheese, it may be due to an epidermoid cyst, a noncancerous bump under your skin.
Now, onto Acne Conglobata. Acne Conglobata (AC) is an uncommon, unusually severe, and inflammatory form of nodulocystic acne. It is characterised by interconnecting comedones, cysts, inflammatory nodules, and deep burrowing abscesses. AC usually presents with tender, disfiguring, double or triple interconnecting comedones, which often occur in groups of three. The cysts contain purulent, foul-smelling material that is discharged on the skin surface and can cause significant, sometimes disfiguring, scarring. AC primarily forms on the face, back, chest, shoulders, upper arms, buttocks, and thighs.
The primary cause of acne conglobata remains unknown. However, several factors have been identified that may trigger acne conglobata in individuals who are predisposed. These include exposure to halogenated aromatic hydrocarbons, ingestion of halogens, androgens, anabolic steroids, and androgen-producing tumours. Additionally, AC has been observed to develop following the sudden worsening of pustular acne or the recurrence of acne that has been dormant for many years.
AC is typically treated by a dermatologist, who may prescribe retinoids, steroids, or antibiotics to help manage the symptoms. Due to the severity of AC, prescription-strength topical and systemic medications are often recommended. It is important to seek professional help for proper diagnosis and treatment.
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Bacteria
The presence of bacteria is a key factor contributing to the distinctive scent of whiteheads. While bacteria naturally inhabit the skin, playing a crucial role in various processes, certain conditions can lead to the formation of odour and acne. Blocked pores filled with sebum and dead skin cells create an environment conducive to bacterial growth, resulting in a distinct cheese-like smell.
The odour associated with whiteheads is influenced by the type and amount of bacteria present. As acne progresses from mild to severe stages, it provides an increasingly favourable environment for bacteria such as C. acnes, a common acne-causing bacterium, to thrive. This bacterial growth contributes to the distinct cheese-like odour.
Additionally, improper body hygiene practices can further intensify the smell. While poor hygiene itself may not directly cause the odour, it can increase the likelihood of secondary bacterial infections, leading to more severe infections and stronger-smelling acne discharge. This discharge, consisting of pus mixed with blood, debris, and bacteria, contributes to the overall scent when whiteheads are punctured.
The presence of an epidermoid cyst, a noncancerous bump under the skin, is also associated with the cheese-like odour. These cysts often form due to blockages at the opening of hair follicles, resulting in the accumulation of a thick, yellow, cheese-like substance composed of the protein keratin. The secretion of this substance by epidermal cells contributes to the cheese-like smell associated with whiteheads.
It is important to note that while the presence of bacteria plays a significant role in the odour, other factors also contribute to the overall scent. The intensity of the acne breakout, the stage of acne progression, and personal hygiene practices collectively influence the distinct cheese-like smell associated with whiteheads.
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Treatment
Whiteheads, or closed comedones, are small bumps that appear on the skin's surface, with a closed, white or yellowish centre, often surrounded by red, inflamed skin. They are caused by excessive sebum production, the buildup of dead skin cells within hair follicles, hormonal changes, bacterial activity within clogged pores, and the use of comedogenic cosmetic products.
The first step in treating whiteheads is to adopt a hands-off approach. Touching your face invites pore-clogging dirt, oil, and bacteria, and can cause irritation. Squeezing and popping whiteheads can cause long-term scarring and dark spots as the skin heals.
General skincare practices can also help prevent whiteheads. These include:
- Washing your face once in the evening with lukewarm water and a mild product.
- Washing your face after working out or playing sports.
- Exfoliating a few times a week to get rid of dead skin that can clog pores.
- Using sunscreen, specifically designed for the face, as all-over sunscreens can clog facial pores.
- Washing your hair regularly, especially if it is long, as oil from your hair can clog your pores.
- Keeping hair products away from your face.
- Cleaning your smartphone, pillowcase, and sunglasses regularly to get rid of oil, dirt, and bacteria.
There are also several over-the-counter (OTC) and prescription treatments for whiteheads, including:
- Benzoyl peroxide, which helps get rid of bacteria and excess oil.
- Salicylic acid, which can decrease oil production in pores and get rid of dead skin cells.
- Retinoids, which are vitamin A derivatives that reduce oil production and promote cellular turnover.
- Adapalene, an OTC retinoid that should be applied to the entire face.
For stubborn whiteheads, you may consider professional extraction by a dermatologist.
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Frequently asked questions
If your whiteheads smell like cheese, it may be due to the presence of an epidermoid cyst. These cysts can contain a foul-smelling, yellowish, cheese-like material.
An epidermoid cyst is a slow-growing bump under your skin. These cysts are usually harmless but can sometimes become inflamed or infected.
Epidermoid cysts often form as a result of blockages at the opening of your hair follicles. Traumatic injuries can also lead to the development of these cysts, as skin damage can cause the protective barrier to break down, allowing bacteria and other substances to enter and form a cyst.
The most effective treatment usually involves the complete surgical excision of the cyst while keeping the cyst wall intact. If excision is not possible, a doctor may drain it with a needle.
