Is a black, painless pimple near the nose a concern?

Hi,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I read your query and can understand your concern.

Based on the photo and the details you mentioned (attachments were removed to protect the patient's identity), the spot near your nose most likely appears to be sebaceous hyperplasia or post-inflammatory pigmentation from a healed pimple.

1. Sebaceous hyperplasia means an overgrowth of oil glands in the skin. It looks like a small bump and is harmless.

2. Post-inflammatory pigmentation refers to dark skin marks left behind after a pimple or irritation heals.

The good sign is that there is no pain, discharge, bleeding, or fast growth, which makes serious conditions less likely. However, since this spot has been present for several months and is on the face, it should be examined closely to be safe.

I recommend getting a dermoscopy done at a nearby skin clinic. Dermoscopy is a painless test where the doctor uses a special magnifying device to view the skin in great detail. This helps confirm whether the lesion is benign (non-cancerous).

From its appearance and history, it currently looks benign and not something to worry about. Still, long-standing skin lesions on the face, especially if irritated, should be monitored, as very rarely they can change over time into SCC (squamous cell carcinoma), a type of skin cancer.

Please do not squeeze, pick, or scratch the area, as this can worsen darkening or cause scars. If it is confirmed to be sebaceous hyperplasia, it can be easily removed with electrocautery, a simple procedure that uses controlled heat to remove the lesion.

For now, you may apply Polyfax ointment (Polymyxin B sulfate and Bacitracin zinc) gently on the area twice daily, unless you have been advised otherwise by your doctor.

I hope this helps.

Please revert in case of further queries.

Thank you.