How to get rid of milia on the eyelid

Milia are firm, pearly white or flesh-coloured bumps formed when keratin becomes trapped beneath the skin. They are different from acne whiteheads and commonly cause no pain, discharge or redness. A bump close to the eye can resemble another eyelid lesion, so appearance alone cannot confirm the diagnosis.

Explore [Milia](/conditions/milia/) and compare other [Skin Bumps](/symptoms/skin-bumps/) or [Whiteheads](/symptoms/whiteheads/) when the diagnosis is uncertain.

Do not pierce, scrape or squeeze an eyelid bump. These actions can injure delicate skin, introduce infection or leave a mark, especially near the eye. A dermatologist can assess the lesion and, when appropriate, open and lift out the cyst with a sterile technique. Curettage and cautery may be considered for selected lesions; treatment choice depends on position, size and skin type.

Keep products away from the eye margin unless prescribed. Use gentle cleansing and daily sun protection around, but not inside, the eye. A clinician may discuss [Topical Retinoids](/treatments/medical-dermatology/topical-retinoids/) for some patterns of milia, but these are not suitable for every eyelid.

A consultation about [Curettage And Cautery](/treatments/surgical-dermatology/curettage-and-cautery/) can clarify how removal is performed and what aftercare involves.

Arrange an assessment if the bump grows, bleeds, becomes painful, repeatedly returns, changes colour, affects vision or is associated with marked swelling. Urgent care is appropriate for sudden vision change, severe eye pain, spreading redness or injury to the eye. A persistent bump that is not clearly milia should be examined rather than treated with a home extraction kit.

Ask: Is this definitely milia? Is its location safe for office removal? Which method fits the eyelid skin? What should I avoid before and after treatment? Could another eyelid condition look similar?