Milia on Black skin

Milia are keratin-filled cysts beneath the surface. On deeper skin tones, they may be white, grey-white, or close to the surrounding skin colour, so texture can be more noticeable than contrast. They are often firm and smooth, while [Skin Bumps](/symptoms/skin-bumps/) and [Whiteheads](/symptoms/whiteheads/) can have different features.

Post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation can follow irritation or a minor skin injury. That does not mean a dark mark will occur after every procedure, but it is a useful risk to discuss before treatment. A changing or inflamed bump may not be milia.

Use a gentle cleanser and avoid squeezing, home extraction, abrasive scrubs, and strong acids around the bump. Tell the clinician about a history of dark marks or raised scars. Depending on the diagnosis, [Topical Retinoids](/treatments/medical-dermatology/topical-retinoids/) or a controlled procedure may be considered; treatment should be chosen for the site and your skin response.

After [Curettage And Cautery](/treatments/surgical-dermatology/curettage-and-cautery/) or another removal method, follow wound-care instructions, do not pick, and protect the area from sunlight. Ask before restarting brightening or exfoliating products, since early irritation can prolong colour change.

Arrange review if the spot grows, bleeds, becomes painful, repeatedly crusts, or leaves a worsening mark. Seek prompt care for spreading redness, warmth, pus, fever, or swelling near the eye. A persistent new dark patch should also be assessed rather than treated with unlabelled bleaching products.

Ask how the diagnosis was made, how your history of pigmentation affects the plan, what aftercare lowers irritation, and what to do if a dark mark develops.