A pimple inside the nose is a localized inflammation or irritation within the nasal vestibule, the area just inside the nostrils. This is common because the skin lining contains hair follicles and oil glands, making it susceptible to the same issues as skin elsewhere. This guide explains why these bumps form, how to identify their severity, and steps for safe at-home care.
Why Pimples Form Inside the Nose
The nasal lining contains hair follicles and sebaceous glands. When these become clogged with dead skin cells and oil, they can form a typical acne lesion. The presence of Staphylococcus aureus (Staph) bacteria, which naturally colonizes the nose, often escalates a simple blockage into a painful infection.
Minor trauma frequently triggers this infection by allowing bacteria to penetrate the skin barrier. Actions like nose picking, aggressive nose blowing, or plucking nasal hairs create tiny tears in the lining. This breach allows Staph bacteria to enter the deeper tissue, where the warm, moist environment encourages bacterial growth.
Is It a Pimple or Something More Serious
Not all bumps inside the nose are simple pimples, so it is important to distinguish between superficial issues and deeper infections. A simple pimple or mild acne lesion is usually small, superficial, and may appear as a whitehead caused by a clogged pore. These often resolve with minimal discomfort.
Nasal Vestibulitis (Folliculitis)
Nasal vestibulitis is a superficial infection of the hair follicle. It typically presents as clusters of small, red, or white bumps near the nostril opening.
Nasal Furuncle (Boil)
A nasal furuncle, or boil, is a more serious, deeper infection within the hair follicle that forms a painful, pus-filled abscess. Furuncles are generally larger, feel harder, and are accompanied by significant swelling and tenderness.
Safe Management and Treatment at Home
The treatment approach for a nasal pimple must prioritize safety due to the area’s unique anatomy. It is necessary to avoid any attempt to squeeze, pick at, or pop the bump. This area, extending from the corners of the mouth up to the bridge of the nose, is sometimes referred to as the “Danger Triangle.”
Veins in this region lack valves, meaning pressure from squeezing can force infected material backward into the cavernous sinus at the base of the skull. This rare but serious complication is known as cavernous sinus thrombosis.
Instead of squeezing, apply a warm, moist compress gently to the area for 15 to 20 minutes, three times a day. This warmth helps reduce pain and encourages the bump to drain naturally. Over-the-counter pain relievers can manage discomfort. For mild folliculitis, a topical antibiotic ointment, such as bacitracin, may be applied if recommended by a healthcare professional.
Signs You Need Medical Attention
While many small nasal pimples resolve with simple home care, certain signs indicate the infection is worsening and requires professional medical intervention. The rapid increase in pain or size of the bump is a clear red flag. The development of systemic symptoms, such as a fever or chills, suggests the infection may be spreading beyond the local area.
Spreading redness or visible red streaking on the skin, known as cellulitis, is a sign of deeper bacterial spread. A large, hard furuncle that does not begin to resolve after a few days of warm compresses also warrants a medical evaluation. Any sign of neurological involvement, including a severe headache, confusion, neck stiffness, or changes in vision, requires immediate medical attention, as these symptoms may signal cavernous sinus thrombosis.