Pimple-ridden lips are no picnic. Fact is, these pesky mini mountains, also known as papules, spring up when the luscious landscape of your lips gets suffocated by a cocktail of dead skin cells, oils, and bacteria. The bigger, pus-packed ones are pustules, tempting squeeze targets. The atrocities!

But your skin doesn't need another enemy. Squeezing just gives you more healing time, scars and discoloration. Not a trade-off worth making.

Instead, show that pimple some heat, then give it the cold shoulder. The temperature tango actually soothes and accelerates healing. Sounds like magic, right? Not quite. A hot compress, or a soaked and wrung-out washcloth, against the pimple for about a quarter of an hour thrice a day could do wonders. They're like nutritious little hugs for your lip.

Ice, on the other hand, can reign in the swollen rebellion. Cleanliness around your lip pimple is non-negotiable, but steer clear of soaps loaded with fragrances or harsh elements that are far from lip-friendly.

Over-the-counter acne mercenaries like topical salicylic acid or benzoyl peroxide aren't really lip advocates. Their labels warn you not to put them anywhere near your mouth or lips. When in doubt, get on the horn with your healthcare provider.

Aloe vera in lip balms can soothe and moisturize, but its acne-fighting prowess is arguable at best. Toothpaste is better off cleaning your chompers. There’s no guarantee that it draws the line at harmful oral bacteria and also tackles the acne-causing variety.

Castor oil packed with ricinoleic acid, lemon juice, and turmeric contain beneficial antimicrobials and anti-inflammatories but have limited conclusive evidence against acne. The verdict on medical-grade honey, tomatoes and apple cider vinegar is equally elusive and ambiguity-riddled when it comes to acne warfare.

Tea tree oil reeks of antibacterial power. Yet, it's a documented fact that it causes more harm than good when swallowed or applied to the lips. Zinc supplements may warrant a look since lower levels are linked to acne sufferers. Though they may reduce the inflamed papules, overdose can lead to a range of unpleasant side effects. Fish oil heralds anti-inflammatory omega-3 fatty acids but must be consumed responsibly.

Lip pimples, like bad puns, are tough to prevent entirely. But minimalizing triggers such as sweaty sports equipment & overtly lip-prowling musical instruments can help. As does proper diagnosis & treatment. Remember, home remedies and dietary supplements can clash destructively with medical treatment. Best to keep your provider in the loop for future unblemished, pouty smiles.