What To Do When You Get a Pimple in Your Ear

Compared to pimples on the face, back, or even chest, pimples in the ear tend to be more painful. Below, the experts at Connect Hearing have outlined the causes, symptoms, and effective methods to treat and prevent ear pimples.

Our nationwide network of hearing healthcare centers is here for all your hearing-related concerns in Texas, Georgia, Florida, Colorado, California, and other locations across the United States. Our hearing care professionals have what it takes to get you on track toward better hearing. By understanding what causes ear pimples, you can alleviate the discomfort associated with them and prevent them from occurring in the first place. Contact us today to learn more about our premier hearing centers.
 

What Causes Pimples in the Ear?

No matter where they are on your body, pimples result from clogged pores. Your pores become blocked with a combination of sweat, body oils, and dead skin cells throughout the day, leading to the formation of annoying pimples. Some ways in which the pores on your ears can become clogged include the following:
Buildup of Sebum, Dead Skin Cells, & Sweat
The ear is susceptible to the accumulation of these substances, especially during periods of increased physical activity or in hot and humid environments.
Improper Removal of Ear Wax or Use of Q-Tips
When ear wax is removed improperly, the wax can be pushed further down the ear canal, leading to blocked pores and potential pimples.
Earrings, Dirty Earphones, & Hearing Aids
If you don’t regularly clean these items, they can transfer contaminants to the skin of the ear and lead to the formation of pimples.
Exposure to Dirty Environments
If you're in an environment with a lot of dust, dirt, or other pollutants in the air, your pores can become clogged and potentially cause pimples to form.
Stress or Hormonal Imbalances
The body experiencing stress or hormonal fluctuations can lead to increased sebum production, which contributes to blocked pores and the formation of pimples.

Where Do Ear Pimples Commonly Occur?

Pimples can form in various locations in and around the ear region. Some common areas where they tend to occur include the earlobe, behind the ear, and inside the ear.

Symptoms of Ear Pimples

Symptoms associated with ear pimples can present a range of symptoms that cause discomfort and concern. Awareness of these symptoms is essential to differentiate them from other conditions requiring immediate medical attention. If the pimple becomes larger over time or the pain persists, it’s recommended to consult with a health care provider. If you pop your ear pimple, it’s important to thoroughly wash the affected area to prevent a skin infection and further irritation. Some common symptoms associated with pimples in the ear include the following:
  • Earaches and tenderness to the ear
  • Sore bump within the ear canal or the external ear
  • Presence of pus in the ear

Treating Ear Pimples

Treating the pimples in your ears can help speed up the healing process and provide faster relief. If a pimple has surfaced in your ear or you feel one emerging, some home remedies you can try to treat it include: 
 
  • Use a Warm Compress – If the pimple is on the exterior part of your ear, you can try applying a warm compress to the inflamed area to help reduce inflammation and promote the healing process. Soak a clean washcloth in warm water and gently place it against the pimple for about ten to 15 minutes. The warmth of the water will help open the pores, allowing any trapped debris to be released. You can repeat this a few times a day until the pimple starts to go down.
  • Use Pimple Cream – A topical pimple cream containing salicylic acid or benzyol peroxide can help reduce the appearance and discomfort of your ear pimple. Take a small amount of pimple cream and apply it directly to the affected area using a clean cotton swab. You can repeat this once per day until the pimple subsides.
  • Seek Professional Help – If the pimple in your ear persists, becomes increasingly painful, or shows signs of an infection, it’s advisable to seek professional help. A healthcare provider may prescribe topical medications or oral antibiotics. If necessary, a dermatologist can help extract and drain your ear pimple.

Preventing Pimples in the Ear

There are several things you can do to prevent ear pimples from forming in the first place. Being proactive about your ear health and hygiene will significantly reduce the risk of developing pimples in the ear. You can minimize the likelihood of ear pimples developing by:
  • Thoroughly cleaning your hearing aids, earphones, and earrings often 
  • Washing your ears and the surrounding areas with soap and water when showering or washing your face
  • Keeping your hair clean and pulled back from your face
  • Avoid dirty water from entering the ear

Contact Our Hearing Care Professionals Today

Dealing with ear pimples can be frustrating, but there are several things you can do to manage the symptoms associated with them and prevent them from forming in the future. Practicing good hygiene and keeping accessories such as earbuds and hearing aids clean is a great first step. At Connect Hearing, we truly care about your hearing health care. With premier hearing centers throughout Texas, Florida, California, and beyond, our network of hearing care professionals and audiologists is passionate about improving your hearing health. Contact us today to learn more, or book an appointment online to take the first step towards better hearing.