If you buy something through a link on this page, we may earn a small commission. How this works. Should I be concerned about a pimple inside the nose? A pimple inside the nose can be a minor annoyance or a sign of an infection inside the nose. Understanding the difference and learning how to care for an infected pimple can reduce the likelihood that an infection will spread or worsen.

What causes a pimple inside the nose? Your pores can sometimes become blocked with extra oil or dead skin cells. A pimple can occur when oil or dead skin cells start to build up in the pores. While pimples most commonly appear on the face, they can just as easily show up inside the nose. Those with low immunity or who have diabetes are at higher risk of skin infections. This may make them more prone to pimples, including those that occur in the nose. Pores attract more than extra oil. Bacteria can also infiltrate the pore, causing redness, irritation, and inflammation that make a pimple painful and tender. These bacteria can lead to infections, such as nasal vestibulitis and nasal furuncles. Nasal vestibulitis Nasal vestibulitis is also known as folliculitis. This condition can cause a red, inflamed bump or a collection of red or white bumps, usually at the nostril openings. Staphylococcus (staph) bacteria are a common cause of folliculitis. Certain habits, such as picking your nose or blowing your nose too often, can contribute to folliculitis. Nasal furuncles and cellulitis Nasal furuncles are boils, or deeper infections in the nose. This condition is considered more serious because it can lead to cellulitis, a rapidly spreading skin infection that can get into your bloodstream. The condition causes skin dimpling, swelling, and red areas of inflammation. In some instances, cellulitis can be deadly. Staph, Streptococcus, and methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) infections cause cellulitis. MRSA infection is serious because it’s difficult to treat and resistant to many antibiotics. In some cases, it’s even life-threatening. Ingrown hairs A pimple inside the nose may also be the result of an ingrown hair. Some people may get pimples inside the nose after trying certain hair removal methods.

How is a pimple inside the nose diagnosed? In order to diagnose you, your doctor will ask you questions about your symptoms, such as: What did the pimple look like when you first noticed it? How has it changed?

What symptoms have you noticed related to the pimple inside your nose?

When did you notice the pimple?

Has any blood or pus oozed out from the pimple? Your doctor will also conduct a physical exam of your pimple. Imaging studies, such as MRI or CT scans of the head, can help identify possible signs of infection inside the sinuses. Your doctor may also request that a sample of your blood and possibly a sample of the fluid inside the pimple be taken. The laboratory can test this sample for bacteria and, if present, determine the type. Your doctor can them prescribe the appropriate antibiotic.

Is it safe to pop a pimple inside the nose? Picking, scratching, or attempting to pop the pimple can make the pore more vulnerable to bacterial infection. Allowing the pimple to heal without disrupting it will prevent a more serious condition from developing. If you’re feeling a lot of discomfort, consider seeing your doctor. They can lance the pimple safely for you.