Acne in the ear can appear in some people. Although not as often as pimples on the face or neck, you still need to know the causes and how to overcome them.
Acne in the ear usually appears the outer ear, namely the auricle and ear canal. This condition can occur to anyone, including teenagers and adults.
Causes of Acne in the Ear
Acne in the ear can be caused by increased oil production or a buildup of dead skin cells or bacteria in the pores of the outer ear skin.
In addition, the following factors can also trigger the appearance of zits on the ears:
- Hormonal imbalances, such as puberty or before menstruation.
- Use of cosmetic products or hair care products that hit the ears and trigger an inflammatory reaction.
- Bacterial infections in the ear that usually occur due to injuries or habits often touch or scratch the ear with dirty fingers.
The habit of using earphones or headphones that are rarely cleaned can also trigger acne on the ear.
How to Overcome Acne in the Ear
Actually, acne on the ear can improve and disappear by itself. However, this condition sometimes causes discomfort and pain. To overcome this, the doctor can provide the following drug options:
1. Topical Vitamin A
Topical Vitamin A is a topical medication that contains vitamin A and is often used to treat mild to moderate acne. One option is tretinoin. However, this drug is not recommended for use by pregnant women.
2. Benzoyl peroxide
Benzoyl peroxide is a drug that is often used and effective to treat acne, because it can kill bacteria and reduce oil levels in the skin. Benzoyl peroxide is available in the form of gels, lotions, creams, and soaps.
3. Antibiotics
If acne in the ear is caused by a bacterial infection and the condition is quite severe, your doctor may provide treatment with antibiotics, such as minocycline, doxycycline, and tetracycline.
4. Systemic medicine
One systemic drug that is often used to treat acne is isotretinoin. This medicine contains vitamin A and will usually be given if the acne is severe enough. However, this drug should not be taken while pregnant because it can cause disability in the fetus.
In addition to using the drugs above, avoid squeezing pimples on the ear because it causes irritation to the skin and ears, leaving scars, worsening the condition of acne, causing acne to become infected with bacteria.
Although some of the drugs mentioned above can be obtained freely without a doctor's prescription, but you are still advised to consult a doctor when experiencing acne on the ears, so that the treatment is safer and in accordance with your condition.
