What should you know about tiny milia?

Milia form when keratin becomes trapped beneath the skin surface. They often appear as smooth white or cream bumps on the eyelids, under-eye area, cheeks, or nose. Unlike inflamed spots, they are usually firm and do not have a soft head that can be emptied. They are not the same as ordinary [Whiteheads](/symptoms/whiteheads/), although the two can look similar.

Some milia arise without an obvious trigger; others follow skin irritation, injury, or heavy products. A clinician can distinguish them from other [Skin Bumps](/symptoms/skin-bumps/) by examining their shape, colour, and location.

Use gentle cleansing and avoid picking, needles, abrasive scrubs, and squeezing around the eyes. Choose products that do not sting or clog your skin, and use sun protection when outdoors. If the bumps persist or bother you cosmetically, a dermatology professional can open and remove them with a sterile technique.

Depending on the pattern and your skin, treatment may include [Topical Retinoids](/treatments/medical-dermatology/topical-retinoids/) or a procedure such as [Curettage And Cautery](/treatments/surgical-dermatology/curettage-and-cautery/). Do not apply prescription products close to the eyes without specific instructions.

Arrange an assessment if a bump becomes red, painful, swollen, drains, spreads quickly, or changes colour. Seek prompt eye care for a bump that affects vision or causes marked eyelid swelling. A spot that looks unusual or does not behave like a typical firm pale cyst deserves confirmation rather than home treatment.

Ask whether the bumps are milia, what may have triggered them, which products are suitable for your skin, and whether treatment near the eyes needs special precautions. Ask how to care for the area after removal.