A small, tender bump near your ear might seem like a simple pimple, but ignoring it could be a serious folly. A top dermatologist warns that this could be folliculitis, a common infection of the hair follicles, frequently caused by unhygienic earbuds, which can become more serious if left untreated.
Folliculitis is an infection, not just a clogged pore. A skin expert explains that while acne involves a clogged pore, folliculitis is when bacteria (usually Staphylococcus aureus) get into a hair follicle and cause an infection. This typically results in a small, red, and tender pustule right at the base of a hair. It is often more painful than a standard pimple.
The link to earbuds is direct. The dermatologist clarifies that your earbuds can pick up staph bacteria from your hands or other surfaces. When you put them in, the pressure and friction can create microscopic abrasions in the skin, giving the bacteria an easy entry point into the delicate hair follicles around your ear.
Ignoring folliculitis can lead to complications. The expert warns that an untreated bacterial infection can worsen, leading to a larger, more painful abscess or boil that may require medical drainage. In rare cases, the infection can spread. That’s why it’s a folly to dismiss a persistent, painful pustule as “just a pimple.”
If you suspect folliculitis, proper care is crucial. The dermatologist recommends keeping the area clean and applying a topical antibiotic ointment. If the bump is large, very painful, or doesn’t improve after a few days, it is essential to see a doctor. They may need to drain it or prescribe oral antibiotics to clear the infection.