What do pimples behind the ear mean?
A pimple will form in your ear if the oil is unable to escape or bacteria grows in a clogged pore. A buildup in bacteria can be caused by a few things, such as sticking your finger in your ear or using earbuds or headphones that aren't cleaned often. Other causes of acne include stress and a hormonal imbalance.

Acne lumps behind the ear
Sebum is an oily substance secreted by units at the base of hair follicles. The sebum mixes with dead skin cells and can form a layer called a comedone. A pimple might then become infected and inflamed if certain bacteria enter the comedone.
In most cases, lumps or nodules behind the ears are harmless. They may signal a need for medication, as in the case of an infection, but they are rarely a sign of a dangerous or life threatening problem.Lumps can vary in size but are generally small- to medium-sized bumps, which may occur anywhere on the back of the ear and can be either hard or soft. In some cases, these lumps might be painful or tender, while other bumps cause little to no pain.

Causes of Ear Pimples
Pimples generally form as a result of clogging of pores with dead skin cells and sebum.
Specifically, the following factors can trigger pimple formation in the ears:
- Excessive stress
- Hormonal changes associated with puberty
- Inflamed hair follicles
- Use of oily gels or pomades
- Increased sebum production
- Occlusion
- Bacterial infection
- Use of tight headbands or hats
- Sharing earbuds
- Allergy
- Piercings
- Keloid bump
- Swimmer’s ear (otitis externa)
Pimples occur when the skin pores get clogged by dead cells and are infected by microbes.
Other factors that may contribute to this condition include:
- Poor hygiene habits
- Excessively dry or humid weather conditions
- Friction due to spectacles
- Ingrown hair
- Ear piercing
- Comedogenic cosmetics
- Diet (sugary foods, especially, which can aggravate acne)
Pimples are a common skin problem that can form on any part of the body, including the ear.
A pimple forms due to the accumulation of dead skin cells, oil, and debris in the pores. This blockage increases oil production and gives way to bacterial growth, therefore causing pain and inflammation. This process can also occur inside the ear, giving rise to a pimple.
Pimples in the ear are comparatively more discomforting and painful than those on other body parts due to a lack of fat in the ear. Moreover, the ear is a delicate, sensitive body organ that contains several sensory nerve endings.
Prevention Tips
- Do not pop the pimple as this will aggravate the infection.
- Follow good hygiene.
- Scrub your skin once a week to prevent ingrown hair.
- Drink plenty of water.
- Quit smoking.
- Follow a well-balanced diet.
- Reduce your intake of sugar and processed foods.

These prevention tips can help promote overall skin health. The remedies discussed in the article may offer relief, but none of them are backed by concrete scientific research.
Reference:
- stylecraze.com/articles/simple-ways-to-take-care-of-pimples-behind-ears
- healthline.com/health/causes-lumps-behind-ears#1
- medicalnewstoday.com/articles/324866