What should you know about milia that won't go away?

Milia are firm, keratin-filled cysts beneath the outer skin layer. Some remain unchanged for a long time, particularly around the eyelids where the skin is thin and easily irritated. A persistent bump can also be another type of [skin bump](/symptoms/skin-bumps/) or a [whitehead](/symptoms/whiteheads/), so appearance alone cannot confirm the cause. Persistence does not by itself mean something serious, but uncertainty or a change in the spot is a good reason to have it checked.

Keep the routine simple: cleanse gently, avoid picking, and stop abrasive scrubs that leave the area red or sore. A dermatologist may recommend monitoring, a topical retinoid, or removal using a sterile procedure. The best option depends on the bump's position, depth, number and your tendency to develop marks. Do not use a needle or blade at home, especially near the eye. Background information is available on [Milia](/conditions/milia/), [Topical Retinoids](/treatments/medical-dermatology/topical-retinoids/), and [Curettage And Cautery](/treatments/surgical-dermatology/curettage-and-cautery/).

Book an assessment if the bump is changing, painful, itchy, bleeding, crusted, or surrounded by persistent redness. Seek prompt help for facial swelling, pus, fever, or vision symptoms. Arrange review sooner if a lesion appeared after an injury or procedure, or if several home attempts have caused broken skin.

Ask how the diagnosis was made, whether observation is reasonable, what treatment fits the location, and what signs would mean the bump needs reassessment.