Most of us have been plagued by a rash of pimples or even just that one conspicuous zit making its presence known at the worst possible time! Pus-filled zits don’t just make you feel self-conscious, they can be painful too. And though pimples usually develop on the face, chest, and upper back, a pimple in the ear is not all that uncommon.
Acne is caused when pores in your skin get clogged up with skin cells and excess sebum or oil produced by your skin. This mixture of cells and oils encourages the growth of bacteria, leading to inflammation and lesions known as pimples.1 The Propionibacterium acnes and Staphylococcus epidermidis bacteria are most commonly associated with acne. The ear and the surrounding area – above and below as well behind or near the ears – are all susceptible to acne when the pores get clogged up. Unwashed hair, using earphones that aren’t clean, constantly touching your ears with sweaty or grimy hands can all add to the effect and increase inflammation. Here are some simple natural remedies you can use to get rid of that pimple in the ear.
# Dab On Some Avocado OilIf you’re a fan of yummy avocados, here’s another reason to love them. The linoleic and lauric acids in avocado oil not only have an anti-inflammatory effect but may also inhibit acne bacteria Propionibacterium acnes. According to another study, an ointment with avocado extracts inhibited an enzyme known as 5-alpha reductase which plays a role in making your skin excessively oily. This resulted in a significant reduction in the number of papules and pustules in people with acne.
Dab some avocado oil on your ear with a cotton bud. You can also scoop out some avocado pulp, mash it up, and apply a blob on the pimple in your ear. Use a damp cotton bud to remove it later.
# Apply African Basil Oil And Aloe VeraAfrican basil oil has an antimicrobial effect thanks to its thymol content and is effective in treating pimples. Studies now also show that aloe vera gel can enhance the ability of this oil to resolve pimples. Anti-inflammatory components such as mannose-6phosphate and C-glucosyl chromone found in aloe vera gel may account for its acne-fighting properties.
Combine aloe vera and African basil oil in equal measures to make an acne-busting ointment and dab this on the pimple. Wipe after 20 minutes with a damp cloth.
# Use Tea Tree OilTea tree oil is well known for its antibacterial properties and is effective against bacteria associated with acne too. Components such as α-terpine, terpinen-4-ol, and α-pinene present in this essential oil are responsible for this beneficial property.
Use a cotton bud to dab some tea tree oil on the pimple. Do this twice a day and you should see results soon. If you have sensitive skin, you could also mix one drop of tea tree oil with a drop of carrier oil like grapeseed and then use it. Even otherwise, remember to do a patch test before you use tea tree oil to ensure you aren’t allergic to it.
# Spread On Some Honey And CinnamonYou can’t be faulted if honey and cinnamon brings to mind ice cream flavors rather than an anti-acne agent. But don’t be fooled – this sweet combo can really help you with those pimples. Both cinnamon and honey work against acne-causing Propionibacterium acnes and Staphylococcus epidermidis bacteria. And research shows that when combined, these common household staples have a more potent effect.
To deal with the pimple in your ear, blend some cinnamon powder and honey and apply a drop of this antibacterial agent on the pimple with a cotton bud. Wipe gently with a damp cotton bud or ball once the mixture is dry.
# Apply Salt Water And Follow Up With Tea Tree Oil Or HoneySalt water is a commonly used remedy for zapping those pimples. Soak a cotton bud in salt water, squeeze out excess water, and apply. Salt water is thought to help thanks to its drying effect and also because it can reduce skin bacteria. Follow up with a touch of antibacterial tea tree oil or honey to deal a deathblow to those nasty bacteria.