It is possible to get a pimple on or around your nipple, though often what appears to be a pimple might be another common, benign skin condition. The nipple and areola contain pores and glands, making them susceptible to various skin issues.
Nipple and Areola Structures
The nipple and areola contain several structures that can contribute to bumps. Hair follicles on the areola can clog, leading to ingrown hairs or pimple-like bumps that typically resolve on their own. Sebaceous glands, which produce oil (sebum), are also found here. If blocked with dead skin cells and oil, they can form a true pimple or a sebaceous cyst. The areola also contains specialized Montgomery glands (areolar glands). These small, raised bumps are normal and secrete a lubricating, protective oily substance. While usually harmless, they can sometimes become enlarged, blocked, or infected, leading to a bump that might be mistaken for a pimple.
Identifying Nipple Bumps
Several types of bumps can appear on or around the nipple, each with distinct characteristics. A true pimple (acne vulgaris) forms when a hair follicle or sebaceous gland clogs with oil and dead skin cells, leading to inflammation. These are red, tender bumps, often with a white or yellow pus-filled center (whitehead or pustule). Folliculitis, an inflammation of hair follicles, often appears as small, red, itchy bumps resembling pimples, which may be pus-filled or crusty. Montgomery glands, though normally present, can become prominent, swollen, or infected, appearing as larger, sometimes tender, pimple-like bumps without a distinct “head.” They may enlarge due to hormonal changes, such as during pregnancy or menstruation. Other benign lumps include small cysts (e.g., epidermoid cysts) or milk blisters in breastfeeding individuals, fluid-filled bumps from trapped milk. Milia, small white cysts formed when keratin traps under the skin, can also appear and are generally harmless.
When to Consult a Doctor
While many nipple bumps are benign, certain symptoms warrant a medical evaluation. Consult a doctor if a bump has persistent pain, tenderness, or swelling that doesn’t resolve. Spreading redness or warmth, or pus or discharge that doesn’t clear up, also warrants professional advice. Medical attention is also advisable for any bump that rapidly grows, changes shape, or bleeds. Changes in nipple appearance, such as inversion or scaling, alongside a bump, should also be evaluated. If a bump doesn’t resolve within a few weeks with self-care, or if you have concerns about breast health, especially with a family history of breast cancer, seek medical advice for diagnosis and guidance.
Managing Nipple Blemishes
For likely benign bumps, general self-care measures can help manage discomfort and promote healing, such as maintaining good hygiene by gently washing the area with mild soap and water. Avoid squeezing, picking, or popping any bumps, as this can worsen irritation, introduce bacteria, and increase the risk of infection or scarring. Applying warm compresses can help alleviate discomfort and encourage drainage for non-infected bumps. Wearing comfortable, breathable clothing can reduce friction and irritation, which may contribute to bump formation. Many benign bumps, particularly Montgomery glands, require no intervention and should be left alone, as they are a normal part of breast anatomy.