@cassolotl mine didn't close all the way either, some sebum and deadskin in the hole, a tiiiiny bit of skin on the backside. They didn't get infected though. Maybe you're reacting to the build-up or things that get inside, even if the skin is closed it's still very thin and the hole makes a good environment for bacteria and stuff. In this case you can maybe wash the lobes regularly (like specifically put soap on the lobes and massage it), push the hole out a bit (from the back) so you can kinda clean it, and spray disinfectant ? And maybe a bit of oil to help prevent bacterial growth and help the skin ? Do you have any other skin condition ?