Do not squeeze or pick at it
Clean the outer ear gently with mild soap and water
Apply a warm compress for 10 to 15 minutes, 3 to 4 times a day
Keep the ear dry
Avoid using cotton swabs or inserting anything into the ear
Use an over-the-counter acne spot treatment only on the outer ear skin, not inside the ear canal
If it is painful, swollen, or filled with pus, see a doctor
If it does not improve within 1 to 2 weeks, get it checked
Seek urgent care if you have fever, hearing changes, severe pain, or spreading redness