What should you know about being prone to milia?

Milia are tiny, firm, pale or white cysts containing keratin beneath the surface of the skin. They commonly appear around the eyelids, cheeks, nose, or forehead and are usually not inflamed. New spots can follow irritation, a blister, a burn, or heavier products, although they can also arise without an obvious trigger. A photo or examination helps distinguish [Milia](/conditions/milia/) from other [Skin Bumps](/symptoms/skin-bumps/) or [Whiteheads](/symptoms/whiteheads/), which form through different processes.

Use gentle cleansing, avoid scrubbing the area, and choose non-heavy products if you notice a connection with occlusive creams. Do not pierce, scrape, or squeeze a spot near the eye; this can cause infection, scarring, or pigment change. If milia persist or bother you, a trained clinician can open and remove them with a sterile technique. Depending on the pattern, a clinician may discuss [Topical Retinoids](/treatments/medical-dermatology/topical-retinoids/) or a procedure such as [Curettage And Cautery](/treatments/surgical-dermatology/curettage-and-cautery/). Treatment choice depends on location, skin sensitivity, and whether the diagnosis is certain.

Book an assessment if a bump grows quickly, bleeds, becomes painful, develops marked redness, or does not look like your previous milia. Seek prompt care for swelling around the eye, spreading redness, or discharge. A sudden widespread eruption after a new product also deserves review, because it may represent irritation or another rash rather than milia.

Ask how the diagnosis was made, whether a product or injury may be contributing, which ingredients to avoid near the eyes, whether removal is appropriate, and how to lower the chance of marks after treatment.