White spots on the face near the eyes

Small, firm, white or skin-coloured bumps under the surface can be milia, which are trapped keratin rather than ordinary acne. A flat lighter area may follow irritation, rubbing, eczema or another pigment change. Cosmetics and eye creams can irritate the thin skin and cause redness or scale around a pale area. A clinician needs to see whether the spot is on the eyelid skin, lash line or eye surface.

Do not squeeze, pierce, scrape or apply acids, retinoids, bleaching products or essential oils close to the eye unless prescribed for that exact area. Cleanse gently, keep makeup tools clean, and stop a product that stings or causes swelling. Use sun protection that is suitable for the eye area. A dermatologist or eye professional can choose removal or treatment without injuring the eyelid.

Arrange medical review if a spot persists, multiplies, changes colour or shape, bleeds, crusts or becomes tender. Seek urgent care for eye pain, vision change, marked swelling, light sensitivity, discharge, a blistering rash or a lesion on the eye itself. Do not delay if the eyelid cannot open normally or symptoms began after a chemical exposure.

Ask whether the spot is on the skin or eye surface, whether a product may be responsible, whether removal is safe, and which warning signs should prompt a faster review.