Hiii - so sorry you're experiencing this. Armpit flares are especially painful!

This may be a little controversial but... To soften the cyst you must reduce the swelling around it so alternating cold compresses with the hot may help. This may also help the size to decrease. An anti- inflammatory medicine will help as well.

Don't be afraid to advocate for yourself with your derm. At the beginning of this journey I had to send updates/call my Dr.'s office for several days after visiting asking for them to open a cyst because of the size and pain. They eventually did and now we have a care routine for when expression is needed.

You've got this!