Lip pimples commonly result from certain foods, makeup products, or skincare ingredients that clog pores and cause bacteria buildup. To treat lip pimples, one should avoid products that seem to cause breakouts. This article will help explore the causes, treatment, and prevention of pimples on the upper lip.

What are pimples on the upper lips?

If you are finding an answer to the question, what does "pimple on the upper lip" mean?’ A pimple is an acne that occurs when your pores get clogged with bacteria. This results in a small, tender, raised bump on the skin that is sometimes filled with pus. Although pimples can appear anywhere on the skin, pimples on the upper lip are a common occurrence due to the unique conditions of this area.

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Pimples often appear on the upper lip due to dead skin cells, oil, and bacteria that clog the pores in this area. Lip products, skin picking, hormonal fluctuations, and illness can also contribute to a breakout on the upper lip. Though unsightly and sometimes painful, upper lip pimples usually respond well to over-the-counter acne treatments and improved skin care routines focused on gentle cleansing and moisturising.

Types of breakouts on the upper lip

This section covers the major types of breakouts on the upper lip. Some of the common types include the following:

• Pimples: One of the most common upper lip breakouts. Pimples occur when dead skin cells, oil, and bacteria clog pores. Picking or popping pimples can worsen breakouts.
• Cystic Acne: These are painful and pus-filled lumps under the skin caused by infections in clogged hair follicles. Cystic acne on the upper lip is often hormonal.
• Cold Sores: These small and painful blisters around the mouth are caused by the herpes simplex virus. Cold sores often tingle before appearing. One should avoid touching or bursting these blisters. Over-the-counter creams usually help.
• Contact Dermatitis: Usually appearing in the form of an itchy and inflamed rash, this condition is caused by skin contact with an irritant like a new product. One should identify and avoid the trigger. Use gentle cleansers and hydrocortisone cream.
• Perioral Dermatitis: These red and itchy bumps around the mouth are caused by heavy skin care products. To calm inflammation, one should stop using the current products and use antibiotic creams/gels.
• Folliculitis: Infected hair follicles cause whiteheads with surrounding inflammation. Try using warm compresses and antiseptic washes.
• Angular Cheilitis: This condition involving cracked corners of the mouth is often caused by vitamin deficiencies, ill-fitting dentures, or excessive lip licking.

The top cause of pimples on the upper lip

The top causes of pimples on the upper lip include the following:

• Makeup Products: Lipsticks, lip glosses, lip balms, and other lip products can clog pores and cause breakouts. Switching products and cleaning lips thoroughly can help prevent pimples.

• Skin Picking: Repeatedly touching, squeezing, or popping pimples can spread the bacteria and lead to more severe breakouts. Avoid picking and touching active breakouts.

• Hormones: Hormonal fluctuations during puberty, menstruation, pregnancy, and menopause can trigger increased oil production and pimples around the mouth. It is among the top reasons for pimples on the upper lip.

• Poor Hygiene: Not properly washing the face, reusing dirty makeup brushes, and touching the face with unclean hands can spread bacteria associated with acne.

• Medications: Certain oral medications, like corticosteroids, can cause breakouts as a side effect. If needed, speak to your doctor about medication changes.

• Stress: High-stress levels lead to hormonal changes that increase oil production and inflammation. Stress reduction techniques can help minimise breakouts.

• Diet: Foods with high glycemic loads, like white bread and sugary foods, promote inflammation and can worsen acne on the upper lip and elsewhere.

How do you treat zits on the upper lip?

Here’s how one can treat zits on the upper lip:

• Cleanse Gently: Use a mild, fragrance-free cleanser twice daily to remove dirt, oil, and makeup without overdrying the skin. Scrubs and harsh cleansers can worsen breakouts. The Pink Foundry’s Overnight Acne Spot Corrector is a fast-acting treatment for breakouts, blackheads, and whiteheads.

• Acne Medications: OTC gels, creams, and spot treatments containing benzoyl peroxide or salicylic acid can clear clogged pores and reduce bacteria. Apply a thin layer to pimples at night. With its time-released formulation, the Pink Foundry’s Acne & Oil Control Intense Serum with 2% Salicylic Acid can help fight and prevent acne.

• Try a Warm Compress: A warm and damp washcloth applied for 10-15 minutes can bring pimples to a head for faster healing. Do this a few times daily, but stop if the skin irritates.
• Hydrocolloid Bandage: These protective dots and stickers shield pimples from irritation and absorb fluid overnight to flatten the shorter ones.
• Avoid Picking: As tempting as it is, picking and squeezing pimples cause infections and scars. Leave zits alone whenever possible.
• Watch What Touches Lips: Regularly change and sanitise lip balms, lipsticks, toothbrushes, and phones. Avoid resting hands on the face.
• Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water to balance the skin and flush out impurities. Dehydration can worsen acne symptoms. The Pink Foundry’s Acne Care & Healing Gel Moisturiser with Tea Tree & Cica is specially created for acne-prone skin types.

• Talk to a Dermatologist: For recurrent lip pimples or severe cystic acne, prescription acne treatments like retinoids and antibiotics may be needed. Seek professional guidance.

Most minor upper lip zits can be cleared up with consistent and gentle care. However, if at-home treatment fails after 4-6 weeks, one should seek medical help.

How to prevent above-lip pimples

Here are some tips to prevent above-lip pimples:

• Cleanse the upper lip twice daily using lukewarm water and a mild cleanser to remove dirt, oil and makeup without over-drying.
• Exfoliate the lips 2-3 times weekly with a soft lip scrub to remove dead skin cell buildup.
• Use oil-free, non-comedogenic lip balms and lipsticks that don't clog pores.
• Remove makeup thoroughly before bedtime using a gentle makeup remover.
• Avoid constantly touching the lips and skin around the mouth throughout the day.
• Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water to keep your skin balanced.
• Reduce stress through self-care practices like meditation, exercise, or yoga.
• Get 7-9 hours of sleep daily to balance hormones that can trigger breakouts.

Also read: Pimple on Lip: Reasons and How to Get Rid of Pimple on Lip

Conclusion

Cleanse and use acne treatments with salicylic acid or benzoyl peroxide to unclog pores and reduce bacteria. Be patient for results, and consult a dermatologist if lip pimples persist or worsen. Simple lifestyle changes alongside consistent skin care can help clear up lip pimple breakouts.

FAQs

What is the meaning of a white pimple on the upper lip?

A white pimple on the upper lip usually indicates a mild infection of the skin pore. The white colour comes from pus and dead skin cells trapped within. They typically clear quickly with simple acne treatments.

Is a small pimple on the upper lip a cause for concern?

A small pimple on the upper lip is generally nothing to worry about. Gentle cleansing and avoiding picking typically allows it to heal within a few days. Only if pimples persist, spread, or cystic acne develops should you consult a dermatologist.

Should I pop zits on the upper lip?

No, you should not pop zits on the upper lip. Popping forces bacteria further into the skin, causing more inflammation and possible scarring or infection. Instead, allow zits to heal on their own whenever possible.

How do you differentiate between a pimple or a cold sore on the upper lip?

Cold sores begin with tingling and occur in clusters. They then blister and ooze. Pimples are hard, red bumps with whiteheads that arise individually. Cold sores also crust over as they heal. Differentiating based on location, sensation, and progression helps guide treatment.