Overview

Pimples can appear almost anywhere on your body, including your knees. They can be uncomfortable, but you can help your pimples heal at home and prevent more pimples in the future.

Pimples can be caused by any number of irritants. Most commonly, they occur naturally from a buildup of oil or dead skin that clogs one of your pores. Pimples can appear on your face, chest, back, or anywhere where excess oils can manifest.

Common causes include:

  • Sweat. Sweat contains natural body oils and can contribute to extra oil in the area. The buildup of sweat can contribute to more pimples.
  • Tight clothing. Wearing tight clothing such as leggings, spandex, or long underwear can trap oils and sweat close to your skin which can cause irritation and blemishes.
  • Lotions or skin products. Oil-based tanning lotion, moisturizers, or other skin products can contribute to clogged pores which may turn into a pimple on your knee.
  • Stress. Stress can cause changes in your body that result in extra oil or skin reactions that manifest in the way of pimples.
  • Shaving. Shaving your legs and knee area can cause irritation of the hair follicles which can result in pimples in the area on and around your knees.

Pimples are extremely common. They typically appear in areas of your body that produce more oil, such as your face, hairline, back or chest, but they can affect any area of your body. Here are some common ways to help your pimples heal:

  • Use noncomedogenic skin products that won’t clog your pores.
  • Wash up after physical activity or sweating.
  • Don’t pick or pop your pimples.
  • Use products against acne or oil with caution as they may cause skin irritation or dryness.
  • Gently cleanse your skin; rubbing too hard can create irritation.
  • Avoid the sun when possible as it may cause your skin to create additional oils.

Sometimes what appears to be a pimple is actually a cyst. You may have an epidermoid cyst if the bump on your knee doesn’t form a head and continues to grow in size.

Epidermoid cysts are usually slow-growing. They appear as a small bump without a white head. Sometimes a small blackhead marks the cyst’s opening. Cysts commonly contain a white chunky substance that may have a bad smell.

Large or painful cysts usually have to be drained by a medical professional. Doctors may administer a local anesthetic before draining a cyst.

A typical draining procedure includes:

  1. The middle part of the cyst is located.
  2. A doctor or medical professional cuts a small hole in the cyst.
  3. The skin is gently squeezed until the pus inside ruptures.
  4. If there are still contents inside, the contents are removed by sterilization or flushing with a solution.
  5. The hole is then closed with glue or a stitch depending on the size of the cyst.

If you have a pimple on your knee, make sure to gently clean the area and avoid tight clothing. If your pimple doesn’t improve after time or continues to grow, you may have a cyst. Remember, pimples are normal, but be sure to monitor your pimple for further infection or irritation. If you suspect another condition, be sure to contact your doctor.