Ear pimples explained: types, causes, and safe treatments. Find out why you shouldn't pop ear zits and how to prevent painful ear bumps.
Although it is perfectly normal to have a pimple in your ears, there is so much to know about ear pimples. This article will take you through the types, causes, treatments and prevention methods. If you have questions about your hearing health and hearing ability, head over to one of our branches and get a free hearing consultation. Moreover, if you notice you are experiencing hearing loss, you can also undergo a free hearing test.
Everyone is familiar with annoying pimples on the nose or forehead. However, these unpleasant skin impurities can also surface in or behind the ear. As this is such a sensitive area, ear pimples can be particularly unpleasant and painful. Ear pimples are a result of clogged pores due to earwax that has drained properly. Instead of fulfilling its actual function of cleaning the ear, the earwax built up can cause small pus pimples. The location of the pimple can vary greatly. In addition to the swelling and redness, pimples in the ear may also cause earaches, hearing loss and jaw pain.
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Common causes:
A blind pimple in the ear—a type of acne that forms under the skin without a visible head—can be particularly painful due to the sensitive and enclosed nature of the ear.
Blind pimples in the ear are typically caused by:
A boil, also known as furuncle, is not a sebaceous pimple, it is an inflammation of a hair follicle caused by bacteria. A boil can form pus and can swell the tissue surrounding the affected area. Oftentime, boils are much more painful than pimples and only heal with scarring.
Untreated boils that do not heal on their own may lead to abscesses and blood poisoning, which is why a visit to the ENT doctor is strongly recommended. A warm and moist compress with antiseptic agents as well a calendula-based ointment may help with the inflammation. However, it is best to keep the affected area as still as possible and avoid at-home treatments.
A sore or tender spot in the ear—especially one that hurts when touched—may be a sign of inflammation or a minor infection. These types of pimples are often red, swollen, and sensitive, particularly when located in the ear canal or on the cartilage.
Common Symptoms of a Painful Ear Pimple:
In some cases, if the spot bursts accidentally, it may cause bleeding or increased irritation
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Although pimples cannot be prevented in their entirety, there are home remedies that can help get rid of them quickly. Applying oils or ointments on the affected area several times a day with a cotton swab can help the healing process.
Important: Deep-rooted pimples in the ear canal should always be treated by an ENT specialist and not using home remedies!
There are several ways to prevent ear pimples and blackheads from forming:
The best way to thoroughly and carefully clean your ears is while showering or washing your hair with lukewarm water and a flannel. The key to ear care is ensuring that earwax is not being pushed back into the ear canal during the cleaning process. For this reason, cotton swabs should also be avoided and objects that come into contact with the ears, such as earphones, telephones and caps, should be wiped or washed regularly. Users should also clean their hearing aids frequently to help reduce the spread of dirt and bacteria.
Do you think your hearing might be impaired? Then check your hearing with the Amplifon hearing test. It takes only 3 minutes and is free of charge. Afterwards, you can get advice from a hearing expert at one of Amplifon's clinics in Australia.
Don't pop pimples in your ear canal. This can cause serious damage including infection, hearing loss, or eardrum perforation.
Safe alternatives:
The ear canal is too delicate for DIY popping. Always seek professional help if needed.
Quick pain relief methods:
See a doctor if:
Prevention:
Contact a doctor immediately if you notice infection signs.
Yes, ear pimples can lead to infections if bacteria spread to surrounding tissues.
Warning signs of infection:
Safe treatment options:
Lifestyle tips:
Healing time: Most ear pimples resolve within 1-2 weeks with proper care.
