Pimples in your ear might seem odd—but they’re more common than you think. Unlike facial or back acne, ear pimples can be especially painful due to the thin, sensitive skin inside the ear canal. If you’ve ever asked yourself, “Why do I keep getting pimples in my ear?”, you’re not alone.
In this guide, we’ll explore why ear pimples happen, how to treat them safely, and what you can do to prevent them. Whether it’s from dirty earbuds or hormonal changes, understanding the root cause is key to managing ear acne.
What Causes Pimples in the Ear?
Just like acne on your face or back, ear pimples form when pores get clogged with oil (sebum), dead skin, and bacteria. The ear contains oil glands and hair follicles—making it prone to breakouts.
Here are the top culprits:
1. Excess Oil & Dead Skin Buildup
Your body produces sebum to moisturize your skin. But when there’s too much of it, especially combined with dead skin cells, pores can clog—leading to breakouts inside or around the ear.
Tip: Learn how sebum works and its role in acne from Healthline’s Guide to Sebum.
2. Dirty Earbuds or Headphones
Earbuds and over-ear headphones trap sweat, oil, and bacteria. If you’re reusing them without regular cleaning, they can cause bacterial buildup inside the ear canal—resulting in pimples.
3. Hair Products or Earwax Blockage
Hair products like gels, oils, or sprays can drip into the ear, especially during showers or hairstyling, clogging pores. Likewise, excessive earwax buildup can trap bacteria and irritants.
Read about how to safely remove earwax on Medical News Today.
4. Hormonal Fluctuations
Hormones play a huge role in oil production. If you’re a teen, pregnant, stressed, or approaching menstruation, your body may produce more sebum, leading to acne—including inside the ear.
Learn more from American Academy of Dermatology on Hormonal Acne.
5. Touching Ears with Dirty Hands
Our hands carry bacteria. Touching or scratching your ears—especially with long nails or dirty hands—transfers bacteria, potentially causing pimples or even infections.
6. Allergic Reactions
Cheap metal earrings, certain shampoos, or medicated ear drops may irritate your skin, causing a red bump that looks and feels like a pimple.
How to Treat Pimples Inside the Ear (Safely)
Whatever you do, do not pop or squeeze ear pimples. Doing so can push bacteria deeper into your skin, causing swelling, infection, or even damage to your ear canal.
Here are safe, effective remedies:
1. Warm Compress
Best For: Pain, swelling, and inflammation
How To Use:
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Soak a clean cloth in warm (not hot) water.
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Gently press against the pimple for 5–10 minutes, 2–3 times per day.
Why It Works: Heat improves circulation and encourages the pimple to drain naturally.
More info: WebMD on Warm Compress Use
2. Tea Tree Oil (Natural Antibacterial)
How To Use:
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Mix 1 drop of tea tree oil with 1 teaspoon of coconut oil.
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Apply to the pimple using a clean cotton swab.
Why It Works: Tea tree oil has strong antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties that help reduce redness and kill bacteria.
3. Salicylic Acid (Pore Unclogger)
Best For: Small, recurring breakouts
How To Use:
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Dab a little salicylic acid toner or cleanser inside the outer ear (never deep inside).
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Use once daily to avoid over-drying.
4. Over-the-Counter Acne Creams
Look For: Benzoyl peroxide (2.5%–5%)
How To Use:
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Apply a tiny amount on the pimple using a clean finger or Q-tip.
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Avoid inner ear canal application.
Learn more about benzoyl peroxide treatments
5. Keep the Area Clean
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Wash ears gently with warm water and fragrance-free cleanser.
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Dry thoroughly and avoid scratching.
How to Prevent Pimples in your Ear
Stopping ear acne before it starts is the best approach. Here’s how:
1. Clean Earbuds Weekly
Use rubbing alcohol wipes or disinfectant spray on earbuds and headphone cushions every few days.
2. Avoid Hair Products Near the Ears
Apply hair products carefully and wipe any excess away from your ears during showers.
3. No Q-Tips or Pins in the Ear
Objects like cotton swabs, bobby pins, or nails can cause irritation and push wax deeper.
4. Use Gentle Cleansers in the Shower
Don’t forget your ears when washing your face or body. Use a gentle cleanser that won’t clog pores.
5. Change Pillowcases Frequently
Dirty pillowcases harbor bacteria and oils. Change them every 3–4 days if you’re acne-prone.
When Should You See a Doctor?
Ear pimples typically heal within a week. But in some cases, you may need medical help.
See a healthcare provider if:
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The bump is very large, painful, or persists for over a week.
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There’s bleeding, pus, or a foul smell.
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You experience fever or redness spreading outside the ear.
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Pimples recur in the same spot frequently.
A doctor may recommend:
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Topical or oral antibiotics
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Steroid injections for large, painful cysts
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Minor drainage procedures
Use Zocdoc to find dermatologists near you.
Final Thoughts
Ear pimples can be irritating, painful, and downright stubborn. But with the right hygiene, gentle care, and a bit of patience, they can be managed effectively.
Remember:
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Don’t pop them!
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Clean your earbuds and headphones often.
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Use warm compresses and natural treatments.
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Know when to get professional help.
With these steps, you can finally say goodbye to those annoying bumps in and around your ears.
Got Questions or Tips? Drop Them in the Comments Below!
Let us know your experience with ear acne and which remedies worked best for you.