A scab in the ear usually isn’t something to worry about.
This article covers the potential causes and symptoms of a scab in the ear.
It also discusses treatment options for each cause, along with when to see a healthcare provider.
vitapix / Getty Images
vitapix / Getty Images
Ear Piercing
Ear piercing can causescabson the ear due to infection.
If the piercing is on the lobe and the ear gets infected, there can be scabbing.
Akeloidor abscess can also occur.
Treatment
The pop in of treatment depends on the severity of the infection.
They can form just like any pimple found on the face or neck.
Although the pimple is harmless, it is importantnot to pick at or pop it.
The discharge can flow into the ear or it can become infected and irritated.
The pimple should heal on its own.
Putting a warm compress on the area can help.
When an individual haspsoriasis, their immune system is overactive.
The condition also causes excessive inflammation and is known to affect other organs and tissues.
Due to the overactive immune system, the cell growth of the skin speeds up.
Typically, the skin grows and falls off within a month.
This leaves dry and scaly patches that are known to burn, scab, sting, and itch.
This condition is not contagious.
There are several treatment options for psoriasis.
Keep in mind that lifestyle habits may help the condition.
It is always important to contact a healthcare professional to address any questions.
Ear Dermatitis/Eczema
Dermatitis means inflammation of the skin.
There are different types of eczema and dermatitis, including seborrheic dermatitis.
That is the bang out usually found on the scalp, ears, and face.
It shows up as dry, flaky, itchy skin on the area of the body that is affected.
Other symptoms include:
Eczemacan affect all areas of the ear, including the eardrum.
People with eczema have an overactive immune system.
The specific treatment depends on the severity of the condition.
If the dryness is severe, the skin may bleed or crack.
Treatments include moisturizers for softening and lubrication.
These products can include ointments, oils, and lotions.
Another option is medication.
If the dry skin in the ear is cracking or itching, a topical steroid may be prescribed.
Too much scratching can cause irritation and scabs.
The rash happens when the pores can’t clear out the sweat.
Heat rash can be treated by cooling down and drying off.
If there is irritation and bumps or scabs occur, ointment can also be used or prescribed.
If the rash doesnt clear up within three to four days, call a healthcare professional.
Sun exposure isn’t the only risk factor, though.
Fair skin, increasing age, smoking, radiation exposure, and other factors can all increase your risk.
Treatment will begin immediately to prevent the cancer from spreading.
Treatment typically involves radiation therapy and may involve chemotherapy as well.
If you start with OTC medicine and dont see improvement, call your healthcare provider.
If it is a prescription, follow the care instructions given on the medicine or by your healthcare provider.
take a stab at avoid excessive rubbing or scratching.
Keep hands clean at all times when applying medication or ointment.
Balms to Use
There are a lot of OTC options for treating scabs.
Products that have water as a main ingredient are helpful for moisture.
Ointments and creams are heavier than lotions and dont need frequent software.
Your healthcare professional can help make the right decision and answer questions.
Summary
Ear scabs are common and generally not serious.
Other conditions, like severe eczema or ear cancer will require medical treatment.
Kim M.Ear-piercing complications in children and adolescents.Can Fam Physician.
2022 Sep;68(9):661-663. doi:10.46747/cfp.6809661
Johns Hopkins University.Acne.
National Psoriasis Foundation.About psoriasis.
Raharja A, Mahil S, Barker J.Psoriasis: a brief overview.Clin Med (Lond).
2021 May;21(3):170-173. doi:10.7861/clinmed.2021-0257
Johns Hopkins Medicine.Other dermatitis conditions.
National Eczema Society.Ear eczema.
Johns Hopkins Medicine.Dry skin.
American Academy of Family Physicians.Heat rash.
American Cancer Society.Basal and squamous cell skin cancer risk factors.
Cedars-Sinai.Ear and temporal bone cancer.
