Acne (Acne vulgaris) is a common skin condition that presents as pimples on the body or face. When tiny pores on the skin become clogged with dead skin cells and sebum (oil), pimples appear as lesions on the skin's surface. Pimples are common on the face and parts of the body like the chest and back, but they can also form on the inside of the nose.

A pimple inside the nose can be uncomfortable, but it is usually a harmless and minor occurrence. You can treat it at home, and in some cases, it will go away on its own. Acne commonly occurs in teenagers but can also affect infants and adults.

Symptoms

Inflamed papules or pustules
The pimples inside your nose may appear as inflamed papules (raised spots less than 1 centimeter wide) or pustules, which are pimples filled with white or yellow pus. Pustules may also appear red at the base.

Whiteheads or blackheads
The acne in your nose may be comedones, which are small flesh-colored, white, or dark bumps that are rough in texture. Open comedones are commonly known as blackheads, while closed comedones are known as whiteheads.

Infection symptoms
Certain infections, such as nasal vestibulitis, can cause thick, yellow crusting, severe pain, swelling, and redness of the nasal vestibule and tip of the nose. The infection may result in small pimples, bumps, or boils in the nose.

What Causes A Pimple To Form Inside The Nose?

Acne

Acne is a common skin condition caused by clogged pores. When the pores inside the nose become clogged with sebum and dead skin cells, pimples can form as inflamed lesions. Sometimes, these lesions may appear red at the base or be filled with pus.

Nasal vestibulitis

Nasal vestibulitis is a common infection of the upper inner nostril. It occurs when bacteria enter the nose from minor trauma, such as plucking nose hairs, blowing, picking, nasal steroid therapy, or nose piercings. People who have diabetes or are immunocompromised may also be at higher risk.

The most common bacteria involved is methicillin-susceptible Staphylococcus aureus (MSSA). The risk of complications is low if treated promptly, but untreated cases may require medical intervention.

Folliculitis

Folliculitis occurs when the hair follicle becomes infected or inflamed, causing a pustule or red papule to form. This condition may be triggered by bacteria, fungi, or viruses. Pseudofolliculitis, while usually in the beard area, can also appear in the nose due to irritation from nose hair removal or picking.

Nasal furunculosis

This deeper bacterial infection of the hair follicle can cause painful swelling and redness in the nose. A boil (nasal furuncle) may form. It may result from upper respiratory infections or excessive nose picking and should be treated by a medical professional.

How Is It Diagnosed?

A healthcare provider will examine your nose and discuss your symptoms. If the provider suspects an infection, they may perform swabs or order imaging tests like MRI or CT to rule out serious complications.

Treatments

Most nasal pimples can be treated at home. However, if an infection is present, medical treatment may be necessary.

Home care tips include:

  • Applying warm compresses for 10–15 minutes several times daily

  • Washing the nose area with mild soap and water

  • Applying diluted essential oils like tea tree, rosemary, or thyme

  • Using over-the-counter treatments like benzoyl peroxide or salicylic acid

  • Avoid popping the pimple

For infections, a healthcare provider may prescribe topical or oral antibiotics. Severe infections may require intravenous antibiotics.

How To Prevent A Pimple Inside The Nose

  • Manage stress levels through relaxation, hobbies, or mindfulness

  • Avoid nose picking or plucking nose hairs

  • Blow your nose gently

  • Practice good hygiene by keeping hands clean and avoiding face contact

Related Complications

Though usually harmless, untreated bacterial infections like nasal vestibulitis or furunculosis can lead to:

  • Mid-face cellulitis

  • Nasal abscesses

  • Cavernous sinus thrombosis, a life-threatening condition with symptoms like fever, vision loss, or headache

Seek medical care if symptoms worsen or if you experience severe pain, fever, or vision issues.

A Quick Review

A pimple inside the nose is often a minor issue caused by acne, but it can also stem from infections like nasal vestibulitis or folliculitis. Most cases can be managed at home with proper hygiene and topical treatments. However, for persistent, painful, or infected pimples, see a healthcare provider to avoid complications.