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Painful Pimple in the Ear: What Causes It and How to Treat It

Last update on Jun 02rd, 2025

What Causes a Pimple in the Ear?

There are several reasons why you might develop a pimple in the ear. These are similar to the causes of acne on other parts of the body, but the ear’s unique anatomy can make it more sensitive.

Common causes include:

Excess oil or sebum production
Bacterial infections from unclean earbuds or hearing aids
Blocked hair follicles
Hormonal changes
Poor hygiene or not cleaning the ear properly
Using dirty mobile phones or pillowcases

If you’re wondering, “Why do I have a pimple in my ear?”, it could be linked to one or more of these factors.

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Pimples in different parts of the ear

Pimples in ear canal

Pimples are particularly bothersome in the ear canal and can occur together with earaches. It is important that pimples are not squeezed out using a cotton bud or similar instrument. This can cause the purulent fluid to seep further into the ear and cause infection there as well.

Pimples in the ear or auricle

Whether the pimple is on the outside of ear or inside of it, it should never be popped. If the pimple is too bothersome, you can have it professionally removed by an ENT doctor.

Earlobe pimples

There are many sebaceous glands on the earlobe that can lead to clogged pores. Wearing earrings can oftentimes place major stress on the skin and trigger the growth of pimples near or on the earlobe.

Pimples on ear cartilage

Sweat, dirt and bacteria can accumulate quite easily in the creases of the ear cartilage. The result can lead to the formation of inflamed pimples on the ear cartilage. Wearing over-ear headphones exacerbates this phenomenon by allowing air to accumulate underneath the headphone enabling bacteria to spread from the headphones to the ear cartilage.

Blackheads in ear

Blackheads are smaller and more robust than pimples, making their treatment a lot more complex. Earwax and clogged sebaceous glands can result in whiteheads (under the skin) and blackheads, where the sebum comes into contact with air.

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Pimple in Ear That Hurts: What to Know

A sore pimple in the ear or one that hurts to touch may indicate inflammation or infection. These painful pimples are often red, swollen and tender, especially if located in the ear canal or cartilage.

Symptoms of a painful pimple in the ear canal

Sharp or throbbing pain
Swelling or redness around the pimple
A sensation of blockage
Discomfort when wearing earphones or hearing aids

In some cases, if the pimple is accidentally popped, it may lead to bleeding or further irritation.

How to Get Rid of a Pimple in Ear

Wondering how to get rid of a pimple in your ear safely? The first step is to avoid touching or squeezing it. Here’s what you can do:

Safe methods to treat pimples in your ear:

Apply a warm compress: Helps reduce inflammation and encourages the pimple to drain naturally.
Keep the area clean: Use a gentle cleanser and avoid inserting objects into the ear.
Use over-the-counter creams: Products containing salicylic acid or benzoyl peroxide can help dry out the pimple.
Avoid headphones or hearing aids temporarily if they aggravate the area.

Consult a GP if it becomes painful, swollen or does not improve in a few days.

Can I Pop a Pimple in My Ear Canal?

Many ask, “How to pop a pimple in your ear canal?” but the simple answer is: you shouldn’t. The ear canal is delicate and can be easily damaged. If you feel pressure or pain deep inside the ear, it may be a cyst or infected bump requiring medical attention.

How to Remove a Pimple in Your Ear: Do's and Don’ts

Do:

Clean the ear with a mild antiseptic
Use a cotton pad with warm water
Apply a spot treatment gel (suitable for sensitive skin)

Don’t:

Insert tweezers or pins into the ear canal
Pop the pimple, especially if it’s deep or painful
Use harsh soaps or alcohol-based products

How do you prevent pimples and blackheads in ear?

Preventing pimples and blackheads in the ear involves good hygiene and a few simple habits:

Clean your ears regularly using a damp cloth—avoid using cotton buds inside the ear canal.
Wash your hair frequently, especially if it's oily, as oil and dirt can transfer to the ear area.
Disinfect earphones, earbuds and mobile phones regularly to reduce bacterial build-up.
Avoid touching or scratching your ears with dirty hands.
Shampoo thoroughly behind the ears during showers to remove sweat and residue.
If you have acne-prone skin, use non-comedogenic hair and skin products.

If you frequently experience ear breakouts, consider seeing a dermatologist or audiologist to rule out underlying causes.

Home Remedies for Pimples in the Ear

If preventive measures haven't been successful and you currently have a bothersome pimple in your ear, there are a few remedies that can help you get rid of it quickly without resorting to popping it or squeezing it out. This includes using a cotton ball to dab the pimple with various oils or ointments several times a day.

Tea tree oil and aloe vera for pimples:

Tea tree oil and aloe vera have anti-inflammatory and disinfectant effects. To treat pimples, a small amount of liquid is added to a cotton swab and placed directly on the pimple. The active ingredients should only be applied to the affected area and should not penetrate the ear canal.

Pimple Ointment:

The common ointment that can be purchased in pharmacies is also used to treat ear. The shale oil it contains works as an antibacterial and helps reduce inflammation.

Jojoba oil for pimples:

Jojoba oil helps to eliminate the bacteria that cause pimples. It can be applied directly to the affected area using a cotton ball. After 30 minutes, the excess oil and loose dirt should be removed with a cloth. High quality jojoba oil is characterized by its golden yellow color.

Important: Pimples deep inside the ear canal should always be treated by an ENT physician and not independently using at home remedies!

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FAQs on pimple in ear

Can a pimple in the ear cause swollen lymph nodes?

Yes, in some cases, a pimple in the ear—especially one that’s infected—can lead to swollen lymph nodes, particularly around the neck or jawline. This swelling is the body’s natural immune response to inflammation or infection. If the swelling persists or is accompanied by fever, seek medical advice.

Can I put a pimple patch in my ear?

Pimple patches are designed to absorb pus and reduce inflammation, but they are best suited for flat skin surfaces. While you might be tempted to use one on an outer ear pimple, it's not recommended for use inside the ear canal due to limited airflow and potential complications. Stick to topical creams or warm compresses for inner ear pimples.

How long does a pimple in your ear last?

Typically, a pimple in the ear lasts between 3 to 7 days, depending on the severity and how it’s treated. Avoid touching or popping it, as this can prolong healing or lead to infection. If it doesn't improve within a week, it’s best to consult your GP.

How to cure a pimple in the ear?

To cure a pimple in the ear, follow these simple steps:

Clean the area gently with warm water and mild soap
Apply a warm compress several times a day
Use an over-the-counter acne cream (avoid inside the ear canal)
Keep the area dry and free from irritants like headphones

If the pimple is painful or persistent, seek professional medical treatment.

How to get rid of a pimple in ear without popping?

If you're wondering how to get rid of a pimple in your ear without popping it, the key is to reduce inflammation and allow it to heal naturally:

Apply a warm compress to help it drain on its own
Use a topical salicylic acid cream on the outer ear
Avoid squeezing or touching the area
Let it breathe by avoiding earphones or hats

Popping can lead to infection or scarring, so it’s best avoided.

Why are pimples in the ear so painful?

Pimples in the ear are often more painful than those elsewhere because:

The skin in and around the ear is thinner and more sensitive
There’s limited space in the ear canal, causing pressure to build
They may press against nerve endings, intensifying discomfort

Pain usually subsides as the inflammation reduces, but if it worsens, medical treatment may be needed.

Can a pimple in ear cause ear infection?

Yes, especially if the pimple is picked or popped, it can introduce bacteria into the skin or ear canal, potentially leading to an ear infection. Symptoms might include increased pain, swelling, pus, or temporary hearing loss. If you suspect an infection, consult your GP promptly.

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