Pimple on Lip, Lip Line, Upper, Lower, White, Small, Pictures, Causes, Treatment & Home Remedies

Is it possible to get a pimple on your lip? How do you get a pimple on your lips? This post gives insight into pimples located on lips including upper lip, lower lip, on lip line and inside or on inner lips. The other locations of such pimples are areas around the lips, above the lip, under the lip and on edge or corner of lip. We shall also discuss their nature, highlight their causes and how to get rid of them. Pictures of some of these pimples located on, inside or near lips are included in the post.

A pimple is also called a zit. It is usually a small raised red spot on the skin. However, some pimples may be white or huge depending on their locations and causes. There are many spots resembling pimples that develop on skin. Such spots are often mistaken to be pimples.

Cold sores are very common on lips and can be easily mistaken for pimples on lip. As a result, many people wonder: Do I have pimple on my lip or a cold sore? Since the treatment for cold sores and pimples are very different, it is very important to first distinguish between them.

Pimple on Lip or Cold Sore (Cold Sore vs. Pimple)

One way of determining whether they are cold sores of pimples on your lip is to visit your doctor. But in case you are unable to visit your doctor, or you prefer doing it yourself, you can use the description and pictures below to positively identify the spots on your lip:

Cold Sores on Lip

Cold sore vs pimple on lip — Cold sore on lip

A cold sore will start with pain or burning in the lip, usually on the outer part of the lip line. This is followed by the formation of groups of blisters filled with usually clear fluid.

A yellowish crust is then formed over the blisters. Cold sores are caused by herpes simplex virus-1 (HSV-1). The area where they occur first experiences pain, burning, tingling, or itching before the sores occur. A typical characteristic of cold sores is that they are formed in groups and they usually cluster together.

Pimple on Lip (Zit on Lip)

Pimple on upper lip — Pimple on lip (upper lip)

On the other hand, pimples or zits start with general tenderness in contrast with cold sores, which usually start with shooting pain and burning. Since they are composed of dead skin and skin oils, they are generally firmer than cold sores. Also, they often appear individually as opposed to the clustering that is common in cold sores.

Lip Pimple Pictures (Images)

Various pictures of pimple on lip or close to lips are located at appropriate sections throughout the post. These pictures will help you see what lip pimples look like and be able to distinguish them from other similar spots.

Pimple on Upper Lip or Upper Lip Line

A pimple on the upper lip may look ugly as it is often conspicuous, especially if it is swollen. Besides, it is tricky to treat such a pimple. Lips are very sensitive and any harsh treatment options will either result in rashes, irritation or both. Furthermore, some chemicals that could be used on soft and sensitive tissues including lips are not advisable as they be harmful if ingested. However, there are remedies that could be used to treat pimple on upper lip.

Hot compress: Apply hot compress to relieve pain and swelling of the pimple. This will help speed the healing of the pimple. More importantly, it will not subject the lips to the harsh chemical treatment which may also be harmful if swallowed.
Toothpaste: Apply chemical-free toothpaste to the lip pimple. The toothpaste will help cure the infection and it is not harmful in case it may be swallowed.

Pimple above Lip

Having a pimple above the lip poses the similar challenges as those of a pimple on upper lip. Much as the area above the lip line may not be that sensitive, it is still too close to the lip. For example, if chemicals were to be used to treat it, they are likely to roll down to the lips where they may irritate the lips or even be ingested. Therefore, is advisable to use the same remedies as the ones used for a pimple on upper lip.

Pimple on Lower Lip or Lower Lip Line

You can also develop a pimple on the lower lip. Its actual location may vary from lower lip line to inside lower lip or inner lower lip. Just like any other lip pimple, it hurts and makes it difficult to eat. The causes of a pimple on lower lip are similar to those that cause it on the upper lip. Depending on the particular cause, it might be huge small or swollen. Pimples on lower lip caused by herpes are usually big and more painful.

Pimple under Lip or Below Lip

Pimple under lip, below lip, on lower lip — pimple under lip

Pimples that develop just under the lip but above the chin are also very common. They may also be large or small. If irritated, they may swell too. Pimples under the lips may be caused by any of the causes already seen. However, owing to their location, they are often caused by uncleansed greasy foods which roll down past your lips as you eat.

Pimple in Lip, Inside Lip or in Inner Lip

Although not very common, it is also possible to have a pimple in lip, inside lip or in the inner lip. Pimples located in these areas may be very frustrating and irritating as they are always in contact with saliva. Besides, one cannot easily avoid licking them because of their location near the tongue. These pimples may also pose challenges while eating, especially when chewing the food. Food particles will certainly come in contact with them and hurt them. This is the more reason why these pimples will be painful and irritating.

Pimples around Mouth, near Lip, on Corner of Lip

The other common locations of pimples include around mouth, around lips, near lips, by lip and on the corner of lips. These pimples may be of various sizes, painful or swollen, depending on what causes them. You can deal with such pimples using some of the ways which are outlined later in this article.

Small and Big Pimple on Lip

The sizes of lip pimples vary from small ones to big ones. These sizes depend on the exact location of the pimple and its specific cause. If the small pimples are clustered together, it is possible that they could be cold sores. But if the small pimple exists as a single spot, it is likely that it is a pimple.

If you have a big pimple, then it might have been caused by infected ingrown hair. Hormonal imbalance is also a common cause of huge pimples. Sometimes, small pimples on lip may enlarge and become huge if irritated by touching or licking them repeatedly.

White Pimple on Lip or Whitehead Pimple on Lip

Do you have a white pimple on your lip? White pimples on lip are a common problem. You just need to confirm that the white pimples are not cold sores as they may look similar. White pimples on inside of lip are more common than those on lip. It is also possible to have a white pimple above lip. White pimples are also very common on eyelid, under eye, on nose, on face, in mouth, on gum, on tongue and under tongue. They are caused by “accumulation of subcutaneous secretion of the sebaceous glands” [Noskinproblem]. They may also be caused by sweat and dead skin that congests the pores.

White Pimple on Lip Won’t Go Away

If you have a white pimple that won’t go away, it might be a cyst. Another possibility is that you might be having genital herpes, especially if the pimple is painful and huge. This means if the genital herpes causing the persistent white pimple is not treated first, the pimple may not disappear easily. You just need to see your doctor for further advice, diagnosis and treatment.

Lip Pimple Causes

You may wonder: How did I get a pimple on my lip? Sebaceous glands found inside the pores on the skin produce sebum. At times, the dead skin on our body get collected together and is crusted by the sticky sebum in the pores and follicles. This causes clogging in the pore and follicles. The accumulated sebum and dead skin blocking the pore encourages the growth of bacteria like propionibacterium acenes which is believed to cause acne. Generally, it is the bacteria that feeds on the sebum and secrete substances that lead to formation of pimples. However, it is important to look at the individual causes of pimples on lip:

Hormonal changes

Hormonal changes that occur during various stages of growth may cause pimple on the lip. The hormonal imbalance is more pronounced during puberty and this explains why pimple development is widespread among adolescents.

Hormonal changes may also occur during various states of mind like stress and during processes like menstruation. It follows that people who are stressed up or women who are undergoing menstruation are likely to develop lip pimples.

Pregnancy is another state that comes with lots of hormonal changes. Pregnant women are therefore more likely to develop pimples on their lips.

Oily skin

We know that the oil produced by the body keeps the skin healthy. However, too much oil on the skin is not very good. People with oily lip skin are likely to develop pimples on their lips because the oil contributes to the clogging in the pores.

Poor diet

“Experts know that poor nutrition may make acne-prone teens even more susceptible to breakouts” [WebMD]. If your diet has high sugars and carbohydrates, it will raise your body sugars. This leads to production of more insulin which in turn increases the production of oil on your skin. The excess oil contribute to the clogging of follicles which cause pimples.

Greasy foods

Greasy foods have the same effect as excess skin oils. If the oil from the greasy food is not washed away from the lips after eating, it will increase the chances of blockage and clogging in the pores.

Toothpaste

There are many ingredients in toothpaste including baking soda, hydrogen peroxide, fluoride, sodium lauryl sulfate, alcohol, essential oils and methanol. Some of these ingredients, especially fluoride, may react with your skin and cause the development of pimples on your lips.

Poor hygiene

Poor hygiene does not often cause pimple on lips. However, if you repeatedly don’t clean greasy and oily foods from your lips, you may develop pimples on your lip.

Lipstick, lip gloss or lip balm

Cheap lipstick, lip gloss or lip balm may contain certain harmful chemicals which may contribute to the development of lip pimples. Such chemicals usually penetrate the skin of your lip and cause bacterial infections resulting in pimples on your lip.

Expired face makeup

If you happen to use expired makeups on your lips, it may cause pimples on the lips. Expired cosmetics may have undergone processes that change the original composition of ingredients. The resulting composition may be harmful to your lips. It may penetrate the skin around your lips and cause bacterial infections which may lead to the development of lip pimples.

Symptom of herpes

Development of pimples on lips may be a symptom of herpes. Herpes is a sexually transmitted disease. Pimples that develop as a result of having contracted herpes are usually big and painful. They have the appearance of ulcer.

Allergic reactions

Certain allergic reactions, especially food allergies, are also known to cause lip pimples. Consuming food that your body is allergic to may cause toxic reactions. The immune system is made to fight the food that cause allergic reactions, leading to inflammation in the skin including pimples and many other conditions.

Certain Medication

Certain medications such as corticosteroids, lithium and androgenic steroids can also cause pimples on lips. Cough medicines and sedatives contain bromides and iodides which are also known to cause pimples.

Anti-aging Hormones

DEHE supplements are ant-aging supplements that may cause pimples to occur on your lips. Oily skin is one of the side effects of these drags. As we already know, oily skin encourages the development of pimples.

Smoking

Smoking is another possible cause of pimples on your lip. “Researchers at the San Gallicano Dermatological Institute in Rome, Italy, suggest smoking cigarettes causes acne breakouts, specifically non-inflamed blackheads and blocked pores.” [Verywell.com]

Painful Pimple on Lip

If you have painful pimple on your lip, above your lip or on the edge of your lip line, it is likely to be cystic acne. It is usually painful and tricky to get rid of, as it becomes even worse if you try to get rid of it.

Painful lip pimples are ugly, hurt and make it difficult to eat. You definitely want to get rid of them immediately if possible.

In case you happen to have a painful pimple on your lip, do not keep touching it. It will only become more painful. If you try to get rid of it or pop it, it may leave a mark (scar) that will take long to disappear. Also, do not use any lip makeup like lipstick, lip balm or even lip gloss. These will only worsen the condition of the pimple.

To soothe it, give it a warm compress. This will relieve the pain and redness and speed up its healing. If it won’t go away in about a week, see your doctor to just make sure it is nothing worse.

A painful lip pimple on lip might also indicate that you have contracted genital herpes. Painful pimples on lip that are huge and have ulcer-like appearance are usually a symptom of genital herpes. In this case, you need to treat the underlying problem (herpes) as you deal with the pimple. Otherwise, it won’t go away and in case it does, others will for sure develop.

Swollen Lip from Pimple

It is very common to have a swollen lip due to irritation from a nearby pimple. Swollen lip pimples make your mouth and lips look badly deformed and unsightly. The pimple is usually irritated by biting it or attempting to pop it.

A cystic acne in the area surrounding the lips could also be the cause of your swollen lip pimple. Cystic acne may occasionally be very big and irritate the area around it. It important to note that cystic pimples do not only develop on lips or areas around lips. They also common in other areas like the chin, face, upper arms and shoulders.

To relive a swollen lip pimple, gently apply a cold compress on it. Repeat this until you get relieved from the pain and discomfort caused by the swollen lip. A cold compress eases the inflammation and help speed up the healing of the swollen lip.

How to Get Rid of Pimple on Lip Fast, overnight (Home Remedies)

There are many remedies that can be used to get rid of pimples on lip. Considering that lips are soft tissues with a very sensitive skin, the remedies chosen to eliminate lip pimples should be those that do not irritate it. Furthermore, owing to its location near or virtually in the mouth, the remedy selected should not be poisonous, just in case it is swallowed by mistake. Numerous home remedies are discussed here so that you can use the one that is readily available to you, or the one that best suits your situation. All these remedies take into account the above-mentioned risk factors.

Apply cold compress to the pimple. A cold compress is an effective way of getting rid of the pimple. It is a very appropriate method of clearing a lip pimple, considering that it is chemical-free. This method can be used when the pimple is directly on the lip or even when it is in the inside of the lip. The cold compress contracts the blood vessels. The narrowed blood vessels then squeeze some of the oil and bacteria out of the pores. This relieves the pain and redness the in the pimple and speeds the healing process for the pimple. Ice placed in an ice bag could be used as a cold compress.
Apply warm compress to the pimple: This is equally an appropriate and effective way of getting rid of a pimple on lip. A worm compress will open up your pores, allowing bacterial and clogged dead skin to flow out of the pores. This speeds the healing of the pimple and prevents others from developing. Instead of applying warm compress to the pimple, you can expose the pimple to steam by placing your face above and close to a container with hot water. The same effect can also be achieved if you take a hot shower, directing the warm water to the pimple. Be cautious not to burn yourself. For best results, expose the pimple to the steam for 20 to 30 minutes per day.

Apply a lemon Juice to the Pimple: the acidic lemon juice kills the bacteria in the pimple and dries it up. This helps to heal the pimple faster. Soak the lemon juice in a piece of cotton wool and apply it on the pimple before going to bed. You can also gently squeeze a piece of cut lemon into the pimple.
Lemon juice can be used to get rid of lip pimples
Apply almond to the lip pimple: Make paste out on an almond using milk. Apply the paste to the pimple. Almond is one of the best home remedies that cures pimples on the lip fast.
Massage coffee powder into the pimple: Wet a small portion of coffee powder with a drop of water. Gently massage the wet coffee powder onto the pimple to cure it without the formation of any scar on the healed pimple.
Apply papaya fruit to the pimple: A papaya is yet another effective remedy to lip pimples. Cover the lip pimple with a small piece of ripe papaya for 30 minutes per day. This will cure the pimple in less than a week.
Massage an orange peel to the pimple: Massage a fresh orange peel into the pimple on lip. An orange has acids that help kill the bacteria in the pimple. The pimple will get cured soon.
Apply fresh turmeric to the lip pimple: Besides the many medicinal applications that you may know, turmeric can also be a wonderful remedy to lip pimples. In fact, it is the best home remedy to a pimple on lip, given that it treats the pimple and prevent any other infections on the lip.
Turmeric is an effective remedy for lip pimples
Massage fresh aloe vera into the pimple in lip: Aloe vera is a well-known and wildly used medicinal herb. Massage a freshly cut aloe vera right into the pimple on your lip. Ensure that the thick liquid from aloe vera covers your pimple completely for about 30 minutes. Repeat for a few days and your pimple will get healed quickly.
Apply coconut oil on the pimple: Heat a teaspoonful of coconut oil in a pot until it is warm. Apply the warm coconut oily on the pimple. The warm oil will open the pores and kill the bacteria in the pores. The pimple will slowly disappear.
Apply olive oil on the lip pimple: Olive oil could be used instead of coconut oil to get the same results. Follow the same procedure outlined under coconut oil application.
Apply Neem Paste: Crash neem leaves with a drop of water. Gently massage the resulting paste onto the pimple. This is a very effective remedy that usually gets rid of pimple in two to three days.
Wash the pimple with water: Just water! Yes! Water is magic! Just wash your lips with clean water and let them dry naturally. Using a towel or some other piece of cloth to dry your lips would irritate the pimple. This remedy is handy in case your skin is too sensitive such that most of the other remedies discussed may hurt it.
Other remedies: Use eucalyptus, basil or castor oils. They are usually applied directly to the lips at regular intervals. These remedies also work well to get rid of the pimple fast.

Pimple on Lip Treatment and Cure (Medication for Lip Pimple)

There are many kinds of pimple medicine that are very effective. They range from topical creams to oral antibiotics. Some of the common and most effective treatments for pimple on lip include:

Benzoyl peroxide. Benzoyl peroxide is an OTC and it is readily available in shops. It effectively treats pimples quickly by killing bacteria in and around the pimple. However, if the pimple is right on the lip or inside the lip, it is advisable that you avoid using benzoyl peroxide. Choose other methods that are chemical-free.
Retinoid cream: Retinoid cream helps unblock pores and follicles. Besides curing existing pimples, this cream help prevent formation of new ones. Furthermore, the creams also help reduce wrinkles.
Topical antibiotics: Topical antibiotics kill bacteria that may cause pimples. The common topical antibiotics that are often prescribed by doctors include erythromycin, metronidazole, and clindamycin.
Oral antibiotics: Oral antibiotics are more appropriate when treating a lip pimple. It may be difficult to use topical creams when the pimple is right on the lip or in the inner lip. In such cases, oral antibiotics are preferred. Oral antibiotics kill bacterial in the pores and follicles, thereby healing and preventing formation of new pimples.
Hormonal treatment: In case the cause of your lip pimple is hormonal changes or imbalance, it may be necessary for you to seek hormonal treatment. You need to see a doctor to administer this treatment.
Consult the doctor: If you try various methods but the pimple persists, you may need to see the doctor for further diagnosis and prescription of appropriate medication for your case. There are many alternative medications for pimples and some tend to work well with particular individuals.

How to Prevent Pimple on Lip

It is said that prevention is better than cure. There are various measures that can be adopted to prevent the formation of pimples on lip. These measures include:

Stop using lip cosmetics: Most lip balms, lip glosses and lipsticks contain chemicals which may be responsible for the development of lip pimples. The wax from lip balm may block your pores. The dead skin and bacteria trapped in the pores may cause pimples to develop on your lips. The fragrances in the products may stimulate the production of excess sebum which encourages blockage of pores leading to formation of lip pimples.
Clean your mouth after eating: This will ensure that there is no greasy foods left on the lips. As we have already seen, presence of excess oil on the skin encourages blockage of pores, resulting in the formation of pimples.
Brush or scrub your lips often: This removes all the dirt and dead skin from your lips, reducing chances of them being clogged in the pores hence preventing the formation of lip pimples.
Use toothpaste without flavor chemicals: You cannot avoid brushing your teeth. Instead, use toothpaste that does not contain flavor chemical to prevent the formation of lip pimples.
Drink a more water: Adequate water in your body helps wash out waste products from your system. Among the waste products washed out is the bacteria which might be in your skin pores. This will help prevent formation of pimples on lip.
Stress management: We have already discussed that stress is one of the reasons why there may be hormonal changes that may lead to the formation of pimples on lip. Proper stress management will therefore help reduce chances of development of lip pimples.

How to Pop a Pimple on Your Lip

It would be better to avoid popping a pimple and let it heal on its own. However, in practice, very few people will patient enough to wait for the unsightly pimple on their lips to heal on its own. If you have to pop the pimple, at least wait until it is ready for popping. The pimple is ready for popping when its head turns yellow or white. To pop the pimple:

How to pop pimple on lip — Popping a pimple on lip

Carefully prick the surface of the pimple with sterile needle. You can disinfect the needle with alcohol.
Wrap pieces of tissue paper or cotton wool in each of your index finger. Gently squeeze the pimple inwards from either side using the wrapped index fingers.
Increase the pressure gently until you see pus coming out slowly as shown in the image beside.
Continue squeezing until all the pus comes out. Stop squeezing when blood starts coming out as this means that all the pus has been forced out of the pimple.

It is recommended that you do not wash the pimple immediately after popping it as this may cause severe irritation. However, the pimple can be cleaned afterwards.