What causes a small pimple in the ear canal, and what should I do about it?

Nov 27, 2025 Source: Cainiu Health

Dr. Lu Cheng

Introduction

Small pimples in the ear canal may be caused by blocked hair follicles, habitual use of ear picks, furuncles of the external auditory canal, external otitis, or sebaceous cysts in the ear canal. Depending on the specific situation, improvements can be achieved through daily care, medication, or surgical treatment. Most cases of small pimples in the ear canal are related to improper daily care or infection; thus, developing good ear care habits is key to prevention.

Small pimples in the ear canal may be caused by blocked hair follicles, improper ear-picking habits, external auditory canal furuncles, otitis externa, or sebaceous cysts of the external auditory canal. Depending on the specific situation, improvements can be achieved through daily care, medication, or surgical treatment. Details are as follows:

1. Blocked Hair Follicles in the Ear Canal

The skin of the ear canal contains hair follicles. Excessive sebum secretion or trapped sweat can easily clog these follicles, leading to small pimples. Keep the ear canal dry, avoid water entering the ear, gently absorb moisture at the opening with a clean cotton swab after washing hair, and reduce intake of oily foods.

2. Unhealthy Ear-Picking Habits

Using sharp objects or excessive force when cleaning the ears can damage the ear canal skin, causing local inflammation and bumps. Stop picking the ears and allow the skin to heal naturally. If mild discomfort occurs, gently wipe the outer opening with sterile normal saline.

3. External Auditory Canal Furuncle

Bacterial infection following follicle blockage leads to furuncle formation, characterized by redness, swelling, and pain that worsens upon touch. Under medical guidance, oral antibiotics such as Cefradine Capsules, Ciprofloxacin Hydrochloride Tablets, or Azithromycin Tablets may be taken, along with topical application of Ichthammol Ointment on the affected area.

4. Otitis Externa

Inflammation results from infection spreading after ear canal skin injury, presenting as multiple pimple-like bumps accompanied by itching and pus discharge. Treatment under medical supervision may include Ofloxacin Ear Drops, Cefaclor Sustained-Release Tablets, or Clindamycin Capsules. Avoid water entering the ear canal during treatment.

5. Sebaceous Cyst of the External Auditory Canal

Blockage of sebaceous gland ducts causes accumulation of secretions and cyst formation. These cysts are usually firm and grow slowly. Asymptomatic cysts can simply be observed. If secondary infection occurs, treat the infection first; once controlled, surgical excision of the sebaceous cyst can be performed. Maintain ear canal cleanliness after surgery.

Pimples in the ear canal are often related to poor daily care or infections. Developing good ear hygiene habits is key to prevention. If the bump continues to enlarge, pain increases, or there is pus discharge, do not attempt self-treatment—seek prompt medical attention for accurate diagnosis and management to prevent hearing damage.

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