Originally Posted by Rook
I would probably lay off the vicks and as it just seems common sense that it would irritate an already irritated area, probably why your mother believes it helps raise pimples. Using a triple antibiotic ointment like neosporin would be much better, would help prevent any infection in the area and help the skin heal not inflame it more. You may likely simply be experiencing an ingrown hair or a hair that has started growing and become trapped under the skin instead of coming through. Usually they will inflame and fester much like a pimple and then the hair will pop through when the surface bursts. I wouldn't recommend forcing it though as you're not certain what the case is. But definitely stop with the vicks and start putting antibiotic on it so you don't get a more painfull infection caused by the inflamation.