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Having acne is one thing, but it’s even worse when it’s literally a painful pimple. We’ve heard your concerns, listed the top three most painful places to get a pimple (in no particular order), and gathered advice from skin professionals on just how to manage. We’ve all been dying to know why some pimples are more sensitive than others, and the truth is that it all depends on where exactly the zit is. Turns out, it’s because “the most painful ones form in areas where there are more nerve endings," says Elizabeth Mullans, M.D., Board- Certified Dermatologist at Uptown Dermatology. How, you ask? Well the pores become clogged, which ultimately leads to inflammation (infamously known as acne). For this reason, Dr. Mullans recommends a trusty exfoliant, a dash of retinol, and some good ol’ self-control. That means no popping and no picking… We know it's easier said than done so the least we can do is share a few Acne-Award-winning products that are sure to cure those pesky pimples (have ‘em on your chin? Here are some chin acne treatments to consider).
Inside Your Nose
If you’ve never experienced a pimple on the inside of your nose - congratulations, you are the universe’s favorite. The worst part about it is that its almost impossible not to touch your nose! Considering it’s in a hooded area, you might even risk spreading the infection. Not to mention, because we have hairs in our noses - ingrown hairs or folliculitis could be the reason for the inflammation. It’s best to avoid direct contact here. With little to no attention to the area and applying a liquid exfoliant with alpha- and beta-hydroxy acids, you’ll be healed in no time!
On Your Lip
Probably the most embarrassing one on this list. And considering the border of your lips are thinner and way more sensitive than other places on your face, it’s possibly even the most painful. Though obviously unattractive, what’s not so obvious is whether it’s a cold sore or not. It’s true, pimples on your lips can resemble a cold sore. Cold sores form as a cluster of small fluid-filled blisters that ooze and crust over. And those blisters are accompanied by flu-like symptoms. If indeed a cold sore, there are over-the-counter anesthetic ointments, as well as prescription-strength ointments to heal the area. Whereas a lip pimple needs a simple hot compress, a non-abrasive, fragrance-free exfoliant, and a retinol serum to prevent further breakouts. Be sure to wash the area twice a day. Do not scrub and do not squeeze! Be sure to be good to your skin and it’ll be good to you.
In Your Ear
Lastly, the one that we don’t even realize is there until we accidentally graze it. Generally, the ears get less exposure to the sun and the least amount of skincare. Press a warm cloth against the zit to reduce the stiffness or tension of the pimple. While antibacterial creams/gels are a good option, the ideal treatment here are acne patches.Put one acne patch on overnight and you’ll start to see results almost instantly.
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