What should you know about milia in adults?

Milia form when keratin, a protein found in the outer skin, becomes enclosed beneath the surface. They often look like tiny white, pearly, or skin-coloured beads and are usually smooth rather than inflamed. They are different from acne whiteheads, so squeezing rarely helps and may injure the surrounding skin.

Adults may notice milia around the eyes, cheeks, forehead, or other areas after skin irritation, injury, or heavy product use, although they can also appear without an obvious trigger. A clinician can distinguish milia from other skin bumps by examining their colour, texture, and position.

Use a gentle cleanser, avoid picking, and choose non-comedogenic moisturisers and sunscreen. Do not pierce a bump at home, especially near the eyes; unsterile tools can cause infection or scarring.

If the appearance bothers you, a dermatologist may release the cyst with a sterile technique. Depending on the pattern and skin type, they may discuss topical retinoids or a procedure such as curettage and cautery. Treatment should be matched to the diagnosis and the area being treated.

Arrange an assessment if a bump becomes painful, red, warm, swollen, crusted, bleeds, changes quickly, or affects vision. Seek advice when many new bumps appear, the diagnosis is uncertain, or home products have caused irritation. A changing or unusual lesion deserves examination rather than self-treatment.

Ask whether the bumps are milia, whether an underlying skin condition or irritation is contributing, and which removal method suits your skin. You can also ask about expected healing, pigment changes, aftercare, and when to return if a bump comes back.