I. Symptoms

• Inflamed Papules or Pustules: Papules inside the nose may present as inflamed papules (raised spots less than 1 centimeter wide) or pustules filled with white or yellow pus. The base of the pustule may also be red.

• Whiteheads or Blackheads: Pimples in the nose may be comedones, which are small, flesh-colored, white, or dark bumps with a rough texture. Open comedones are usually called blackheads, while closed comedones are called whiteheads.

• Symptoms of Infection: Certain infections, such as nasal vestibulitis, can cause thick, yellow crusts, severe pain, swelling, and redness in the nasal vestibule (the area inside the nostril leading into the nasal cavity) and the tip of the nose. The infection may lead to small papules, bumps, or abscesses in the nose.

II. Causes of Pimples Inside the Nose

• Acne: Acne is a common skin condition caused by clogged pores. When the pores inside the nasal cavity become clogged with sebum and dead skin cells, inflamed papules form. Sometimes, the base of these lesions may be red or filled with pus.

• Nasal Vestibulitis: Nasal vestibulitis is a common infection of the inner opening of the upper part of the nostril. It occurs when bacteria enter the nasal cavity due to minor trauma, such as plucking nose hairs, blowing the nose, picking the nose, nasal steroid treatment, or nostril piercing. People with diabetes or weakened immune systems may also be at a higher risk of infection, such as nasal vestibulitis. A review of studies found that the most common bacterial infection associated with nasal vestibulitis is MSSA, an infection caused by methicillin-sensitive Staphylococcus aureus. If the infection is treated, the risk of complications from nasal vestibulitis is very low. To avoid complications, it is important to seek medical attention immediately for antibiotic or topical (applied to the skin) treatment. Complications may include hospitalization or intracranial infection (a serious infection of the central nervous system).

• Folliculitis: Inflammations, such as folliculitis or pseudofolliculitis, can cause lesions similar to pimples in the nose. Folliculitis refers to the infection or inflammation of hair follicles, resulting in the formation of pustules or red papules. Bacterial infection is the most common cause of folliculitis, but fungi or viruses can also cause this condition. Pseudofolliculitis mainly affects the beard area but can affect any skin area, including the nose. It occurs when the skin becomes inflamed or irritated due to hair removal methods, such as plucking or trimming nose hairs. Picking the nose, blowing the nose too hard, or rubbing the nose can also increase the risk of inflammation.

• Furunculosis: Nasal vestibule furuncle furunculosis, also known as furunculosis, is a local bacterial infection of the hair follicles in the nasal vestibule that occurs deeper in the skin than folliculitis. Staphylococcus aureus can cause the infection. Furunculosis can affect both adults and children. Symptoms include pain, swelling in the nostril, and redness of the nose. Sometimes, a boil, called a nasal furuncle, may form in the nostril. Furunculosis may also be a secondary infection of an upper respiratory tract infection or occur due to frequent nose picking.

III. Diagnosis Methods

IV. Treatment Measures

• Applying a warm cloth to the nose several times a day for up to 15 minutes each time.

• Gently washing the area around the nose with a mild soap and warm water. Try to keep the area clean and dry.

• Tapping the pimple with essential oils that have antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties, such as tea tree, rosemary, or thyme. Studies have shown that these types of oils may help eliminate pimples and other types of acne. To avoid skin irritation, dilute the essential oil with a carrier oil, such as olive oil or coconut oil, before applying it to the skin.

• Using acne treatments such as topical retinoids, benzoyl peroxide, or salicylic acid.

• Avoid squeezing the pimple, as this may spread bacteria.

V. Prevention Methods

• Manage your stress levels by doing activities you enjoy or trying relaxation techniques such as meditation or breathing. Studies have found a link between acne outbreaks and higher stress levels, so focus on managing daily stressors through conscious lifestyle habits and practices.

• Avoid picking your nose.

• Avoid blowing your nose too hard or too frequently.

• Wash your hands and try not to touch your face and nose to prevent the spread of bacteria.

VI. Related Complications