Not sure what this is...

[Zinn3]

I have extremely dry hands, possibly from washing them too much lately.  But my real problem is this tiny white pimple that has appeared twice, two weeks apart in the same spot, RIGHT under the bottom lip near the corner of my mouth.  Both times (including this morning) I popped this tiny pimple, quite easily.  There is a red rash now around the area, as there was before I popped it.  Also a little red rash patch on the other side of mouth, but nothing coming from it.  Not sure what to make of this at all.  Originally thought oral herpes, but since the pimple does not tingle before it appears or because it is not on the lip, I am not sure.  A little nervous, but just looking for any hint of an answer!!

Thanks!

[Bhupinder Kaur, MD]

Hello,
From the symptoms they sound like irritated hair follicles and folliculitis. Please keep the area clean and apply some topical antiseptics. Also wear loose-fitting cotton clothing and use an antibacterial soap or mild soap like dove. Avoid any kind of cosmetics. Topical antibiotics such as mupirocin or neomycin containing ointment are also useful. In case the symptoms persist then oral antibiotics may be needed. Please consult a dermatologist in that case. If there is any itching, tingling or scabbing of the bumps, then the possibility of cold sores has to be explored.

I sincerely hope that helps. Take care and please do keep me posted on how you are doing.

[Zinn3]

Forgot to mention, I have been treating this area like a cold sore -- purchased tea tree oil and have occasionally iced the area over the past week.  It seemed like it was clearing up, then after a very very stressful new years day, another pimple appeared.  I popped it, and now it just very red rash.  

Thanks,
Zinn