What should you know about milia of eyelid?

Milia appear as firm, smooth white or skin-coloured dots just under the surface. Around the eyelid they may sit on the lid skin or near the eye socket, but they should not cause vision changes or significant pain. They are made of trapped keratin, not dirt. Because eyelid lesions can resemble other [Skin Bumps](/symptoms/skin-bumps/), an examination is useful if the diagnosis is uncertain.

Wash gently and keep cosmetics, lash products, and fragranced creams away from the bump. Do not lance, squeeze, scratch, or use an over-the-counter peel near the eye. A clinician may discuss an appropriate procedure if the lesion is persistent or bothersome; [Curettage And Cautery](/treatments/surgical-dermatology/curettage-and-cautery/) should only be considered by a trained professional. Do not put [Topical Retinoids](/treatments/medical-dermatology/topical-retinoids/) on the eyelid unless specifically directed.

Arrange prompt medical review for swelling, warmth, spreading redness, discharge, bleeding, a rapidly changing bump, eye pain, light sensitivity, blurred vision, or difficulty opening the eye. These features need assessment because they are not typical of an uncomplicated milia spot. Seek urgent help for sudden vision loss or severe eye pain.

Ask whether the bump is milia or another eyelid lesion, whether cosmetics could be contributing to irritation, and which removal options are safe at its exact location. Ask what eye symptoms should trigger same-day care.