What could cause a lump under the skin above my lip?

Reviewed by Yoshinori Abe, MD

Internal Medicine

A lump above your lip can develop for several reasons, ranging from harmless to more serious. Common causes include:

Benign growths such as cysts, lipomas, or fibromas
Infections like pimples, abscesses, cold sores (herpes simplex), or impetigo
Allergic reactions causing swelling or hives
Trauma resulting in a bruise or hematoma
Cancerous growths, though less common, including skin cancer or salivary gland tumors

Because the causes vary so widely—from a minor blemish to something requiring prompt medical care—it's difficult to know what's behind your lump without a proper evaluation. Waiting and guessing can delay treatment for infections or more serious conditions, while unnecessary worry over a harmless cyst can be avoided with clarity. Take a free, instant, online symptom check to better understand possible causes and confidently plan your next steps.

Reviewed for medical accuracy: 07/15/2026

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Explanation

Lumps above the lip can have different characteristics depending on their cause. For instance, benign growths like cysts tend to be soft and movable, while cancerous lumps are often firm and fixed in place. The location, size, and any associated symptoms like pain or redness can also provide important clues about the underlying cause. Common causes of swelling above the lip include:

Sebaceous cysts - These are small, fluid-filled lumps that develop when oil-producing glands become blocked. They're usually painless and feel soft to touch.
Mucous cysts - These fluid-filled sacs can form when salivary glands become blocked, creating a bluish, dome-shaped bump.

Infections due to viruses or bacteria (which can enter under the skin from minor trauma or shaving) can lead to bumps above the lips. Similarly, allergies (including to ingredients in cosmetics) can cause swelling around the lips. If you're experiencing a persistent lump or concerning symptoms, our free AI symptom checker can help you understand what might be causing it and whether you should see a healthcare provider.

(References)

Gelidan AG, Arab K. Rare upper lip pleomorphic adenoma presents as cutaneous skin lesion: Case report. Int J Surg Case Rep. 2021 Aug;85:106142. doi: 10.1016/j.ijscr.2021.106142. Epub 2021 Jun 29. PMID: 34265588; PMCID: PMC8281655.
Stojanovic S, Jovanovic M, Vuckovic N. Unusual growth of upper lip squamous cell carcinoma: a case report. Iran Red Crescent Med J. 2015 Mar 31;17(3):e13478. doi: 10.5812/ircmj.13478. PMID: 26019891; PMCID: PMC4441773.
Lee YS, Sim HS, Lee SK. Actinomycosis of the upper lip. Ann Dermatol. 2011 Sep;23 Suppl 1(Suppl 1):S131-4. doi: 10.5021/ad.2011.23.S1.S131. Epub 2011 Sep 30. PMID: 22028560; PMCID: PMC3199410.

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