What is a pustule on the lip

Pimples on the lip are extremely unpleasant for most people. On the one hand, a pimple on the lip is noticeable, on the other hand, pimples on the lip are very often associated with severe pain because many nerves supply the lip region. Pimples in general are caused by blocked sebaceous glands. If the sebum can no longer come off, it offers an ideal place for bacteria to multiply on it. These bacteria then cause the pus pimple.

Causes of pus pimples on the lip

Pimples on the lip are also caused like any other pimple by excessive sebum production, which leads to the blockage of the sebaceous glands. However, the lip and mouth region is particularly at risk of developing pus pimples there. This region comes into contact with bacteria much more often than the rest of the skin.

Time and again, food, glasses, cutlery or unwashed hands are brought to the mouth. This promotes infection and explains why pimples are often found around the mouth or even on the lips. The production of sebum itself depends on various life circumstances.

Stress can stimulate sebum production and pimples can develop. Increased exposure to sunlight also increases sebum production, which means that pimples are more frequent in summer. The wrong diet, especially fatty or sugary foods, can also cause pimples to develop.

There is also a hormonal influence on the development of pus pimples. In women, for example, there is a drop in oestrogen levels about a week before menstruation, so that the production of androgens predominates. Androgens are male hormones that stimulate the production of sebum, which makes it easier for pimples to form.

The diagnosis of a pus pimple

The diagnosis of pus pimples is made simply by looking in the mirror. Usually, this reveals a reddish elevation of the skin, which is a sign of inflammation. The pus pimple is also filled with yellow-white pus.

If the affected person touches the pimple, pain may occur. In addition, the affected area, where the pus is, feels bulging. It should be noted that a pus pimple on the lip does not sit directly on the lip, since lips do not contain sebaceous glands and therefore pimples cannot develop there.