How to Treat Pimples on the Lips

Pimples, also called pustules, are a type of acne. They can develop just about anywhere on the body, including along your lip line.

These red bumps with a white center form when clogged hair follicles become inflamed. Pimples can become infected when bacteria get inside.

Popping or squeezing a pimple can make your skin take longer to heal and lead to scarring. Better ways to get rid of a pimple on the lip the right way include:

OTC soaps and creams

There are a number of over-the-counter (OTC) soaps and creams made to treat pimples. Use a mild alcohol-free cleanser twice per day and avoid astringents and exfoliants that can dry out and irritate your skin.

The same applies when it comes to skin creams — the gentler the better. Look for moisturizers made for acne-prone skin.

Hot or cold compress

Applying a cold compress to a lip pimple can help relieve swelling and redness — and make your pimple less noticeable. A cold compress is also an effective way to relieve pain.

Hold a cold compress against your pimple for one minute twice a day to help reduce inflammation. Repeat as needed if your pimple is painful.

A heating compress applied twice a day can help draw out the oil or debris that’s clogging the follicle. If infected, the compress can also help drain the pus, which will reduce pain and redness.

Castor oil

Castor oil offers several health benefits that may help get rid of lip pimples. It’s a natural moisturizer and contains ricinoleic acid, which has anti-inflammatory properties. A 2015 study found that gel containing ricinoleic acid applied to the skin significantly reduced inflammation and pain.

Castor oil is also used in wound healing because of its ability to stimulate the growth of new tissue and prevent the buildup of dead skin cells. In theory, all of these things may be beneficial in the treatment of pustules.

Benzoyl peroxide

Benzoyl peroxide is a popular acne treatment that works by killing the bacteria that cause acne. It’s available without a prescription in different types of products like cleansers, gels, creams, and facial wipes. Using these products as directed — usually twice per day — can help control acne and prevent future breakouts.

Lemon juice

Lemon juice is a popular home remedy for a number of ailments, including acne. Lemons contain antioxidants and ascorbic acid, which is a form of vitamin C.

The antibacterial properties of vitamin C could be good for your skin, but there’s no scientific evidence to support lemon juice as a safe or effective remedy for pimples.

Citrus juice contains acids that can dry out and irritate the skin, and cause eye irritation. If you’d like to give it a try, use your clean finger or a cotton swab to dab some on the skin.