How To Cure Pimple On Lips

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How To Cure Pimple On Lips
Think twice about using natural remedies – Natural remedies like apple cider vinegar and tea tree oil may pique your interest, but Dr. Baker says to proceed with caution. “There’s no real scientific evidence to back up those methods,” she states. Apple cider vinegar may be antibacterial and tea tree oil may be anti-inflammatory, but Dr. Baker says both can irritate your skin.

What causes pimples on the lips?

Medical treatments – If you’re prone to breakouts and regularly get pimples on your lip, you may want to speak to a healthcare provider about medical treatments, such as:

Topical medication, Medication that you apply to the skin is the most commonly prescribed treatment for pimples. These include retinoids, salicylic and azelaic acid, and antibiotics, Your healthcare provider will assess whether these are appropriate for the lip line since it is a sensitive area.

Oral medications. Moderate-to-severe acne sometimes requires oral medications, such as antibiotics or hormone therapies. Isotretinoin is reserved for severe acne that doesn’t respond to other treatments because of its potentially serious side effects.

Other medical treatments. Laser therapy, chemical peels, and extraction of pimples are therapies a licensed dermatologist performs.

Excess oil production, bacteria, and hair follicles that are clogged by oil, dead skin, and debris can cause pimples on the lip line. Stress, hormones, and certain medications can increase your risk for pimples and worsen acne. There are reports of people developing acne around the lips after repetitive use of lip balm and petroleum jelly.

  • Keep your skin clean by washing twice per day.
  • Use mild soaps and creams.
  • Avoid irritants and harsh products.
  • Avoid scrubbing your skin.
  • Wash off lipstick and other makeup before bed.
  • Avoid touching your face too often.
  • Don’t pop, squeeze, or pick at pimples.

You should be able to get rid of an occasional pimple on the lip with home treatment. Keeping your skin clean and moisturized and avoiding stress can help prevent pimples. See a medical professional if you have regular breakouts or experience symptoms of infection, such as pain, swelling, and fever. You may need medical acne treatment,

How do you get rid of a pimple on your lip?

OTC Topical – OTC or over-the-counter medications are available that you can directly apply to the lips. One of the most popular active ingredients is benzoyl peroxide; it destroys the bacteria that cause pimples on the lip and helps in decreasing inflammation. It is available in the form of creams, lotions, gels, face wash, etc.

How long do lip pimples last?

How to Treat and Prevent Pimples on the Lip Line – A pimple on the lip line can’t always be prevented, but there are some steps you can take to care for your skin that will help. Since pimples aren’t contagious, you can’t spread them to other people or other areas of your body.

  • Don’t pick at or pop your pimple, Squeezing a pimple can make the blemish much worse. It can also cause scarring.
  • Ice down especially large or painful blemishes, Wrap an ice cube in a soft cloth and hold it over the pimple for a few minutes at a time. If you do this a few times a day, it can help reduce swelling and ease the pain.
  • Apply an over-the-counter spot treatment to individual pimples, Acne spot treatments can help speed healing. Don’t apply them more frequently than directed, though, since they can dry out and irritate your skin.
  • Take a daily acne treatment medication, If you often get pimples or have them over your entire face or body, you may benefit from medication. Effective acne treatments will stop pimples before they form. Using these can help clear your skin long-term.

If you’re not exactly sure what is happening on your skin, or a lesion isn’t healing or is getting worse, see your healthcare provider. They can order tests, if needed, to diagnose the underlying cause and ensure you get the correct treatment.

Should I pop pimple on lip?

We include products we think are useful for our readers. If you buy through links on this page, we may earn a small commission Here’s our process, Medical News Today only shows you brands and products that we stand behind. Our team thoroughly researches and evaluates the recommendations we make on our site. To establish that the product manufacturers addressed safety and efficacy standards, we:

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We do the research so you can find trusted products for your health and wellness. A pimple may sometimes appear on the surface of the lip. There are home remedies or over-the-counter medications that can help clear it. For a persistent lip pimple, a doctor can extract it or remove it with a laser.

  1. Pimples are acne that can develop on most parts of the body.
  2. There are many possible causes of a bump on the lip, but pimples are typically due to clogged pores.
  3. Various factors can lead to pores becoming clogged, including excess oil on the skin, bacteria, and trapped hair follicles.
  4. If a clogged pore becomes inflamed, a pimple develops, which may contain pus.

Pimples are not an indicator of poor hygiene, and a pimple on the lip is not usually a cause for concern. As with pimples on other parts of the body, people should refrain from popping a pimple on their lip because this may cause it to become infected or leave a scar.

  • A recent social media trend shows users anecdotally discussing a “love pimple,” referring to a link between a lip pimple and an attraction toward someone.
  • However, there is no medical link between falling in love and having a pimple on the lip.
  • A pimple is different from a cold sore, which can appear if a person has the herpes simplex virus.

This article examines ways to get rid of pimples on the lips. We also provide advice on how to prevent them and when to consult a dermatologist. Typically, a lip pimple will not require medical treatment. Therefore, there is little research into medical treatments that specifically target lip pimples.

However, some treatments that address pimples on other body parts may be useful on the lip. Over-the-counter (OTC) options include topical medications that a person can apply directly to the skin. These may be useful for pimples that develop on the lip. An active ingredient in many topical medications is benzoyl peroxide,

This chemical works by destroying the bacteria that cause pimples and reducing inflammation. Products that contain benzoyl peroxide may come in the form of:

gelslotionscreamsface washes

Caution is necessary when using products that contain benzoyl peroxide as it may bleach clothes and hair. It is best to ask a pharmacist which type of product may be most useful in treating the lip pimple. If a person experiences pimples regularly, they may wish to consider consulting a dermatologist.

Prescription-strength topical medications: People may find these more effective than OTC products. Oral medication: In some circumstances, a doctor may prescribe antibiotics to treat pimples. These work by targeting the bacteria that may cause pimples. Laser therapy: Less commonly, people may undergo laser therapy, which involves using pulses of light to kill the bacteria that cause pimples. Multiple sessions may be necessary to produce results. Pimple extraction: A doctor or dermatologist uses sterile tools to remove the pimple during pimple extraction. This procedure is expensive and time-consuming, so it is typically a last resort when other treatments have proven ineffective.

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If a bump on the lip tingles and looks more like a blister than a pimple, it might be a cold sore and will require different treatment. Learn more about cold sores here. Some anecdotal evidence suggests that certain home remedies may help get rid of pimples on the lips. Options include:

Tea tree oil : Research indicates that products containing tea tree oil can help treat pimples. These products may reduce inflammation once a pimple has surfaced and stop more from developing. Follow the instructions on the product to use it safely. Aloe vera : Aloe vera has anti-inflammatory, soothing, and moisturizing properties, Due to these, it may be useful in treating a lip pimple. People should use the product containing aloe vera safely by following the instructions. Apple cider vinegar : Research suggests that apple cider vinegar has antibacterial properties. Some people say that placing diluted apple cider vinegar on a pimple may help get rid of it quickly. However, there is little scientific evidence to support this. Ice: Using i ce on inflammatory pimples may help reduce swelling. A person should always wrap ice in a clean cloth before applying it to the skin and avoid applying ice directly to the pimple.

Click here to learn more about home remedies to get rid of pimples fast. Certain measures could reduce the likelihood of pimples developing on the lip. These include:

Taking zinc : Taking zinc supplements or increasing dietary zinc may aid in preventing lip pimples. One study suggests that there is a correlation between low levels of zinc and more severe cases of acne. Taking fish oil : There is some evidence to suggest that taking fish oil supplements may help reduce pimples. Fish oil contains omega-3, which may help manage acne if a person uses it alongside other options. Reducing stress: A 2016 study found that students experiencing low levels of stress were less likely to develop pimples than those with high levels of stress. Avoiding touching the face: The hands can carry bacteria and transmit infection. Anecdotal evidence suggests that because of this, touching the face or lip may cause pimples to develop. However, there is little scientific evidence to support this claim. Limiting dairy intake: A systematic review concluded that dairy products increase the chance of pimples developing in people aged 7–30. Following a low-glycemic diet : This means favoring fresh fruits and vegetables and whole grains over white bread, cookies, candies, and other foods high in processed sugars and carbohydrates.

Dermatologists are doctors who specialize in treating skin conditions. In most cases, a pimple on the lip will not require an appointment with a dermatologist. The American Academy of Dermatology recommends visiting a dermatologist if many pimples develop on the skin.

It may also be beneficial for a person to consult a dermatologist if they frequently develop pimples on their lip or the pimples do not go away within 4–8 weeks of using OTC treatment. A dermatologist will decide the appropriate course of treatment to remove the pimples and suggest follow-up preventive care.

Several OTC medical treatments can help get rid of a lip pimple, and some people might find that certain home remedies help speed up its removal. Scientific research suggests that a few supplements and lifestyle choices could help prevent lip pimples from developing in the first place.

Shop for zinc supplements. Shop for omega-3 supplements.

What are pimple bumps on lips?

White bumps on the lips can be caused by several conditions, which range in severity. Though they are not usually cause for concern, you should talk to a doctor if they don’t go away or are accompanied by other symptoms. What are white bumps on lips? Your lips help you communicate with the world.

When you have white bumps on them, you may feel self-conscious. These bumps can have various causes. While most aren’t concerning, sometimes white bumps can indicate oral cancer. Seeking medical attention can ensure you stay as healthy as possible. Numerous causes can lead to white bumps on the lips. These include: Fordyce spots : These harmless, tiny (1 to 2 millimeter) white bumps inside the lips are visible sebaceous, or oil-producing, glands.

These spots tend to get bigger as a person gets older. A person may have one small bump or as many as 100 bumps on the lips, typically on the inner portion. Herpes simplex : Oral herpes can cause white bumps or canker sores on the lips. These may first appear as small sores, then become blistered and fluid-filled.

  1. Milia : Common in babies, milia are small, white bumps that occur when dead skin cells become trapped in the skin.
  2. While milia most commonly occur on the face, they also can appear on the lips.
  3. Oral cancer : A white bump with a flat or raised texture may appear on the face.
  4. The bump is usually painless at first, but may eventually start to bleed or ulcerate.

Sun exposure, alcohol abuse, tobacco use (especially chewing tobacco), and the human papillomavirus (HPV) are all known oral cancer causes. Oral thrush : Oral thrush is a fungal infection that causes white lesions on the lips, mouth, gums, or tonsils.

The fungus Candida albicans is the most common fungal strain to cause oral thrush. Sometimes white bumps on the lips are a harmless genetic variation. Just as some people have moles or birthmarks, others may have white bumps on the lips. White bumps on the lips are rarely a reason to seek emergency medical attention.

However, you may wish to make an appointment with your doctor if you have the following symptoms along with white bumps on the lips:

bumps that are painfulbumps that bleed feeling as if something is caught in your throat jaw or neck swelling numbness of your tongue trouble chewing or swallowingfever or sore throat

If your white bumps don’t go away after two weeks, make an appointment to see your doctor. Your doctor will take a full medical history and conduct a physical exam to view the white bumps on your lips. The doctor will feel your face and jaw for swelling and examine your lips and the insides of your lips.

  1. They will also examine your neck for lymph node swelling.
  2. If necessary, your doctor may swab your lip.
  3. This is known as a culture,
  4. A laboratory can test the culture to determine if bacteria, viruses, or fungi may be causing the bumps.
  5. If your doctor suspects you may have oral cancer, a tissue sample may be collected to test for cancerous cells.

In many cases, a doctor may be able to diagnose the white bumps on your lips by a visual examination. Blood tests can also determine if the herpes virus is present. Treatment for white bumps on the lips depends on the cause of your symptoms. Some conditions, such as Fordyce spots, do not require any treatment.

  • However, if you don’t like the appearance of your Fordyce spots, removal is possible.
  • Doctors can use techniques such as electrosurgery or laser treatments to remove them.
  • Thrush is often treated with anti-fungal medications, such as a liquid solution you swish in your mouth and swallow.
  • Antiviral medications can temporarily eliminate your oral herpes symptoms, but they won’t permanently cure the viral infection.

Oral cancers require different treatments based on the condition’s severity. Treatments can include surgical removal of the affected lesion, chemotherapy, or radiation to stop the cancer’s spread. Regardless of the cause of white bumps on your lips, avoid picking at them.

Does Vaseline help lip pimples?

Everyone has dealt with acne at some point. As such, the internet abounds with remedies and quick fixes for bumps and pimples. Among those purportedly helpful remedies is Vaseline, also known as petroleum jelly. Petroleum jelly is a mixture of natural mineral oils and waxes, a gel-like substance commonly used to moisturize dry skin and protect skin against blisters and rashes.

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Many internet users claim that slathering Vaseline on your face—a practice known as slugging—can treat cystic acne. Health asked Ted Lain, MD, a board-certified dermatologist from Austin, Texas, to weigh in on this dubious claim. The conclusion: No, Vaseline does not treat acne. In fact, using Vaseline on your face may actually cause breakouts.

Here’s what you should know. Acne is a skin condition usually consisting of blackheads, whiteheads, pimples, or acne cysts and nodules (painful acne). A person can have just one blemish or a combination of them. Acne tends to get better with aging for some people, but individuals in their 30s, 40s, and 50s can still get occasional blemishes.

Changing hormone levels Medications Stress Family history Undiagnosed medical conditions Hair and skincare products

Furthermore, acne can still cause issues even after it is gone. People might be left with acne scars or dark spots but also lowered self-esteem or depression due to having acne. Petroleum jelly is incredible for softening rough cuticles, taming unruly brows, and soothing cracked winter skin.

  1. Plus, dermatologists often recommend Vaseline for people with eczema,
  2. However, petroleum jelly shouldn’t be used as an acne treatment regimen.
  3. People should avoid products that contain oil or will clog pores, as well as those that are comedogenic (tending to form blackheads) and acnegenic (increasing the likelihood of acne).

“Petrolatum is inherently comedogenic, which means it will clog the pores,” Dr. Lain explained. “It won’t heal acne. It will literally cause it.” That said, petroleum jelly does have anti-inflammatory effects that may diminish the look of redness, Dr. Lain said, adding there are “so many better ways” to treat acne.

Essentially, you want to use products that treat the type of acne you have based on its severity and age. That means that what works for others may not work for you, and what worked for you as a teenager may not work on adult acne. If you find that your acne is more than you can handle on your own, consider talking to a dermatologist who can help you determine what other treatments might reduce the appearance of acne in your situation.

In general, an acne treatment plan from a dermatologist for whiteheads, blackheads, and pimples may include one or more of the following treatments:

Benzoyl peroxideRetinoidsAzelaic acidSalicylic acidTopical antibiotics

The treatment for acne cysts or nodules may consist of topical medications, oral antibiotics, hormonal therapy for female patients, and isotretinoin (medication used when other treatments have not helped). Other acne treatments might include corticosteroid injections for severe acne breakouts and laser or light therapy.

  1. Also, be gentle during your skincare routine,
  2. In other words, care for your skin in a way that doesn’t cause further irritation.
  3. But most importantly, you’ll want to be patient: Seeing improvement in your acne may take a while, as you may not see results until after approximately six to eight weeks of treatment.

Even though slugging, or slathering your face with Vaseline, to combat cystic acne is popular on the internet, dermatologists warn against the practice. Luckily, there are other techniques and products that you can add to your skincare routine to treat and prevent acne.

Should I put toothpaste on my lip pimple?

Home | Patients and Families | Health Library | Does Putting Toothpaste on a Pimple Make It Go Away?

Does putting toothpaste on a pimple make it go away? – Adrian* You may have heard this suggestion, but experts on acne say don’t try it. Toothpaste could make that spot on your skin even more red, irritated, and noticeable. Why? Today, there are so many different kinds of toothpastes — and lots of them contain ingredients that can hurt your skin. It makes sense that you don’t want all that whitening, tartar-reducing stuff on your face. It’s better to use medicine designed to treat pimples. Try acne creams or gels that contain 1% salicylic acid or 2.5% benzoyl peroxide. Your doctor also can help you deal with pimples and recommend other medicines, if needed. *Names have been changed to protect user privacy.

Note: All information is for educational purposes only. For specific medical advice, diagnoses, and treatment, consult your doctor. © 1995-2023 KidsHealth® All rights reserved. Images provided by iStock, Getty Images, Corbis, Veer, Science Photo Library, Science Source Images, Shutterstock, and Clipart.com

Why do pimples by your lip hurt so much?

Here’s Why You Keep Breaking Out Along Your Lip Line can pop up seemingly anywhere, but certain areas are more frustrating (and more painful) than others. This is certainly the case for lip pimples — those pesky little ( or big ) pimples that pop up on the corners of our or along our lip line are not only a nuisance but can downright hurt.

Every time you talk, smile, chew, yawn — you get the idea — it’s an unfriendly reminder of the irritation and that’s popped up out of nowhere, and just isn’t going away fast enough. To better understand these bothersome blemishes, we spoke with top New York City dermatologist Dr. Joshua Zeichner, Director of Cosmetic & Clinical Research in Dermatology at Mount Sinai Hospital.

Below, he shares share his best tips for tackling lip pimples, and why you might keep getting them, Meet the Expert is a dermatologist based in New York City, where he serves as the director of cosmetic & clinical research in dermatology at Mount Sinai Hospital.

  1. Essentially, lip pimples are like any other pimples —and form for the same reasons, too.
  2. In fact, Zeichner says, “pimples are common in this area because of the high concentration and large size of oil glands around the lips.” As with most pimples, “Oil gets trapped within the pores and promotes the overgrowth of acne-causing bacteria, which contribute to inflammation and lead to the red, painful bumps we are all used to.” Only in this sensitive area, they tend to be more painful, likely because of the large amount of movement that our lips and mouth are constantly performing — talking, chewing, etc.

They appear along the lip line and corners of the mouth as red or pink bumps that may or may not have a white head. These are NOT to be confused with, as they are quite different in visual appearance and physical cause. (Though at first, they may have a similar sensation, it’s usually pretty easy to differentiate between the two.) To clear up any confusion, Zeichner explains, “Cold sores tend to start with a burning or stinging sensation followed by a clustered group of small blisters.

In some cases, patients may develop pus bumps rather than clear blisters.” Cold sores are caused by the herpes simplex virus, while pimples are caused by bacteria. Lip pimples may also appear red and irritated but upon a closer look are “usually a solitary, red bump.” Lip pimples may affect men and women equally.

Most, if not all lip pimples are caused by the same pore-clogging bacteria as regular pimples that are found throughout the body and especially within the T-zone. There’s no special or different type of pimple that is reserved for the lip area—they just look and feel a little different because they’re in an area of constant use.

  • Eating Sugars and Starches: Because they’re around the mouth, it’s only natural to think that perhaps what we eat may be a contributing factor to our pimples. And in a way, it’s true. But Zeichner clarifies, “Contrary to popular belief, oily and greasy foods are not the cause of acne breakouts, it is really sugars and starches that have shown to be the culprits.”
  • Getting Grease and Oil From Food on Your Mouth: Eating greasy food might not cause breakouts internally (the way that sugars and starches do), but if oil and grease are coming into contact with your lips and the surrounding area, they could cause breakouts externally, However, in the case of lip pimples, it’s a bit different. While sugars and starches can cause breakouts to form because of what they do internally, oily and greasy foods may very well be causing the pimples externally, because “the oily and greasy foods may physically block the pores and cause breakouts.”
  • Hair Removal: is another common cause of lip pimples. According to Zeichner, whenever you pluck, wax or shave around the mouth, it can cause inflammation within the follicles which can then promote breakouts in the surrounding areas.
  • The Products You’re Using: Your skincare and cosmetic products may be contributing factors, too. If you tend to break out around the mouth, “be cautious about using products. While they may be effective in hydrating the lips, they may block the pores if they cross over to the skin.”
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If you’re tempted to pop your lip pimple, you’re not alone. Some may very well be considered “pickable” according to Zeichner. He says, “some are pickable and some are not. A red, painful bump without a head is not pickable, and attempting to pick it may cause more harm than good, leading to scabbing and potential scarring.” But, if you see pus or a blackhead on the surface, he says that you may carefully and gently apply even, downward pressure to express the contents of the pimple. Neutrogena On the Spot Acne Treatment $5.39 Face washes containing, which works to remove excess oil and dead cells from the skin’s surface, are also helpful to treat and prevent lip breakouts. Zeichner suggests Aveeno Clear Complexion Foaming Cleanser, saying that it is effective without drying out your skin. Aveeno Clear Complexion Foaming Cleanser $10.99 At the end of the day, lip pimples can be a real pain — both literally and figuratively. Because of their less than ideal location, you’re reminded of their presence every time you move your mouth, which only adds to the frustration of having them in the first place.

  • Can oils cause pimples on lips? Yes, because oils can clog pores. One such example is,
  • Is the pimple on my lip an allergy? Yes. See a doctor if you are concerned about a pimple or breakout around your mouth area.
  • Can I pop a pimple on my lip? It is not recommended to pop a pimple as it can cause scarring or even infection.

Byrdie takes every opportunity to use high-quality sources, including peer-reviewed studies, to support the facts within our articles. Read our to learn more about how we keep our content accurate, reliable and trustworthy.

  1. Cleveland Clinic., Updated September 12, 2019.
  2. Decker A, Graber EM., J Clin Aesthet Dermatol,2012;5(5):32-40.

: Here’s Why You Keep Breaking Out Along Your Lip Line

What dries out pimples overnight?

The Best Ingredients for Fighting Acne – Before we discuss the best types of pimple-fighting products, we need to go through the best ingredients for battling the buildup of sebum and dead cells. Here are the hero ingredients to keep top of mind.1. Salicylic acid Salicylic acid helps unclog pores by dissolving dead skin cells and mitigating continued oil production.

  • It’s arguably the best remedy for adult acne as well as getting rid of blackheads, but in terms of overnight solutions, salicylic acid is a quick solution for nixing whiteheads too, without having to pop them.
  • It’s a popular ingredient in many pimple patches, since salicylic acid can help quell those cystic blemishes from worsening.2.

Benzoyl peroxide Benzoyl peroxide is a high-grade defense against acne, and is often found in cleansers and creams for severely acne-prone individuals. (It’s a topical cream that will be most effective for an overnight miracle.) Benzoyl kills the bacteria inside pores, in addition to drying out the oil excess.

  1. It can stain your towels, pillowcase, and clothes, so it’s best to stick with whites if you plan to use the product and touch your face to any textiles.
  2. Ask your dermatologist if an OTC option is suitable for you (versus a prescription-strength one).3.
  3. Sulfur Sulfur is similar to benzoyl peroxide in that it soaks up the gunk and calms skin in the meantime.

It’s less damaging to your towels and pillowcases, too, although it does tend to dry out the skin just as much as benzoyl. (Though that’s kind of the point, since you’re only targeting the patch of skin that needs drying out.) As with any other spot treatment, apply it to a freshly cleansed face before using any other products—using a Q-tip to do so would be best, so as to not transfer any oils or germs from your finger.

Are lip pimples supposed to hurt?

PIMPLES ARE pervasive to the human body. Acne can pop up everywhere—on your face, on your back (hello: bacne !), and even on your lips. These pesky pimples take up residence right on the cusp of where your lips meet the rest of your face (called the lip line).

Can you get a white pimple on your lip?

1 Fordyce spots – These benign, small, white bumps can appear inside the mouth or on the outside of the lips. They can appear as a singular bump or as a cluster of bumps. Although there’s no known cause for their appearance, they’re completely normal and pose no cause for concern.

Can kissing cause pimples around mouth?

No, Acne Is Not Contagious – There are some skin problems that are contagious, but acne isn’t one of them. Common acne (what’s called acne vulgaris in med-speak) can’t be passed from person to person like a cold or flu can. You can touch, hug, and kiss someone with acne without fear of catching the skin disorder.

  • You can even share the same towel or soap with someone who has acne without fear.
  • You won’t develop pimples because you can’t catch acne.
  • Acne is an incredibly common skin problem.
  • Nearly every person will develop some level of acne at some point in their lives.
  • So, just because you developed a pimple a week or two after hanging out with someone with acne doesn’t mean you caught pimples from them.

Coincidental, maybe. But the origination of your acne? No.

Why does my pimple hurt when I touch it?

If you have any medical questions or concerns, please talk to your healthcare provider. The articles on Health Guide are underpinned by peer-reviewed research and information drawn from medical societies and governmental agencies. However, they are not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.

Pain, soreness, and discomfort are some of the most common symptoms of pimples. But why? Why do pimples hurt? And is there anything you can do to lessen the pain? Here’s a detailed explanation of why pimples hurt, along with tips to help you escape the ache. Pimples are an extremely common skin condition, and they’re a symptom of acne.

Experts use the term ” acne ” when your follicles become plugged with oil and dead skin cells. Even if you have an occasional zit—never full-blown breakouts—a dermatologist would call it an “acne lesion.” Acne lesions develop when the pores in your skin become clogged or blocked with sebum (an oily substance that glands in your skin produce), excess dead skin cells that build up on your face, or bacteria called Cutibacterium acnes (C.

Acnes) ( Li, 2017 ; Zaenglein, 2018 ). All of these pore-blocking skin problems can happen at the same time, and all of them are interrelated. For example, sebum can interfere with dead skin cell shedding or feed C. acnes bacteria (Zaenglein, 2018). Sometimes, these clogged pores produce pimples that aren’t really that painful, like whiteheads or blackheads,

But other times, these blocked pores lead to more painful acne lesions like cysts, papules, nodules, or pustules. If you have a painful pimple, you have inflammation to blame. Whether they’re on your face, back, ears, or some other part of your body, inflammation causes pain and tenderness because nerve endings near the inflamed skin notice that something isn’t right ( Tan, 2018 ).

  • Redness
  • Heat
  • Swelling
  • Pain or tenderness
  • Loss of functioning