Under Nose Pimples: Causes & How to Treat

Posted by Jammy Justimbaste on

Pimples under the nose can be particularly frustrating—and painful. This delicate area, coupled with constant exposure to oil and other environmental factors, makes it a common spot for breakouts. Whether it’s an inflamed pimple under your nose or an under-the-skin blemish that just won’t budge, understanding the causes and effective treatments is key to clearing your skin. This article dives into everything you need to know about why these pimples occur, the types of breakouts you might experience, and how to tackle them effectively.

What Is a Pimple Under the Nose?

A pimple under the nose is a type of blemish that forms in the area where your nostrils meet your upper lip. It’s often due to clogged pores, excess oil production, or external irritants. These breakouts tend to feel more noticeable and sensitive than pimples in other areas due to the concentration of nerves in this region. The skin here is also frequently exposed to dirt, bacteria, and oils, making it a prime location for all types of spots, from surface-level whiteheads to painful, under-the-skin pimples.

Under-nose pimples differ slightly from facial acne in other areas. Because the skin near the nostrils is thinner and more sensitive, breakouts in this area can feel more tender and are often trickier to treat without causing irritation.

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Why Do I Have a Pimple Under My Nose?

If you've found yourself asking, "Why is there a pimple under my nose?"—you're not alone. There are several common triggers for this condition, all linked to your skin’s oil production, lifestyle factors, and sometimes hormonal imbalances. Here's a breakdown:

  1. Clogged Pores

Dirt, makeup, and excess sebum can block hair follicles, leading to pimples. The tight crease under your nose provides the perfect environment for debris to accumulate.

  1. Excess Oil Production

This area is part of your T-zone, which tends to be oilier than other parts of the face. Overactive sebaceous glands can lead to pore blockage and pimples.

  1. Hormonal Changes

Fluctuating hormones during menstrual cycles, puberty, or pregnancy can increase oil production, leading to breakouts.

  1. Irritation from Products or Hair Removal

Skincare products with strong chemicals or shaving/waxing your upper lip can irritate the skin, causing inflammation and pimples.

  1. Bacterial Growth

Touching your face frequently or improper cleansing may introduce bacteria to the area, fuelling the development of pimples.

Understanding the root cause can help prevent future breakouts and direct you towards effective treatments.

Types of Pimples That Can Form Under the Nose

The pimple under your nose could take several forms. Here’s what you might encounter:

Painful Pimple Under Nose

Sometimes the ache of a pimple is more annoying than its appearance. Painful pimples in this area are common because of the skin's sensitivity and the close proximity to nerve endings. Deep, inflamed pimples under the nose are often surrounded by swelling, making them especially uncomfortable.

Blind or Under-the-Skin Pimple on Nose

Blind pimples are those painful bumps lurking beneath the skin’s surface. They often occur under or around the nostrils and can take longer to heal since they don’t form a whitehead. The trapped buildup of oil and bacteria inflames the area, often requiring gentle treatment to avoid further irritation.

Pimple Under Nose Above Lip

Pimples in the fold between your nose and upper lip are often caused by hair follicle irritation or trapped sweat and sebum. This spot is particularly susceptible to inflammation due to its proximity to the mouth and nose, where bacteria thrive.

Whiteheads and Blackheads

Whiteheads (closed comedones) and blackheads (open comedones) can also appear under the nose. These are usually less painful but can be aggravated if picked or squeezed.

How to Get Rid of a Pimple Under Your Nose

Treating under-nose pimples effectively requires balancing gentle care with targeted treatments. Follow these steps to treat and prevent future breakouts:

  1. Cleanse Gently

Wash the area twice a day with a mild, pH-balanced cleanser. Stay away from heavy or overly fragrant products to avoid irritation.

  1. Use Spot Treatments

Spot treatments with benzoyl peroxide or salicylic acid help reduce inflammation and kill bacteria. Products like those from SkinB5 are formulated to target acne while being kind to sensitive skin.

  1. Apply Warm Compresses

For painful, deep pimples, a warm compress can reduce inflammation and encourage the pimple to surface naturally.

  1. Moisturise Wisely

Use non-comedogenic moisturisers that provide hydration without clogging pores.

  1. Focus on Diet and Hydration

Incorporate nutrient-rich foods and drink plenty of water to nourish your skin from within. Products like SkinB5’s nutritional supplements can help balance your skin for long-term results.

  1. Avoid Touching Your Face

Hands transfer oils and bacteria, making breakouts worse. Keep this area clean and avoid picking at pimples.

What to Avoid When Treating a Pimple Under the Nose

Not all treatments are created equal, and some can worsen the situation. Here’s what to avoid:

  • Popping Pimples

Trying to squeeze a pimple, especially in this delicate area, can lead to scarring and spread bacteria further.

  • Harsh Scrubs

Over-exfoliating your skin can strip natural oils and trigger more breakouts in response.

  • Overuse of Drying Products

Stick to balanced treatments, avoiding excessive use of drying ingredients like alcohol or pure tea tree oil.

  • Ignoring Hygiene

Your phone screen, pillowcases, and makeup brushes can harbour bacteria—keep these clean.

When to See a Dermatologist

If an under-nose pimple persists despite your efforts, it’s time to see a dermatologist. You might need prescription-strength creams, oral antibiotics, or even cortisone injections for severe cases. Additionally, recurring pimples in this area might indicate an underlying condition that requires professional attention.

FAQs

Why is the pimple under my nose so painful?

The area under your nose is densely packed with nerves, which makes any inflammation here, such as a pimple, feel more tender and uncomfortable. The skin is also thinner, amplifying sensitivity.

How long does it take for an under-nose pimple to go away?

The healing time depends on the type and severity of the pimple. A mild blemish like a whitehead may clear in a couple of days, while a blind pimple could take a week or more.

Can I use pimple patches on a pimple under my nose?

Yes, hydrocolloid pimple patches can be effective even in this curved area. They protect the pimple from bacteria and help draw out fluids while promoting healing.

What causes recurring pimples under the nose?

Recurrent pimples may be linked to hormonal imbalances, improper skincare, or irritation from hair removal methods. Assess these factors and adjust routines to address the issue.

Under-nose pimples can be managed with targeted care and the right products, such as those offered by SkinB5. With consistent effort, it’s possible to achieve clear, calm skin in this tricky area.

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