Milia
Milia — tiny, firm white or yellowish bumps that form when keratin becomes trapped just beneath the surface of the skin. They are harmless, painless, and most often appear around the eyes, cheeks, and nose in both infants and adults.
Key points
- They are small keratin-filled cysts, not clogged pores or acne, so they do not have an opening to the surface.
- In adults they can follow skin injury, sun damage, or the use of heavy occlusive products.
- Unlike whiteheads, milia cannot simply be squeezed out and usually need professional extraction if removal is desired.
- Gentle exfoliation with ingredients like retinoids or mild acids may help reduce their appearance over time.
Frequently asked
Should I try to pop milia at home?
No, milia lack an opening to the surface and attempting to squeeze them can cause scarring or infection, so professional removal is safer if they bother you.
Are milia the same as whiteheads?
No, whiteheads are clogged pores linked to oil and bacteria, while milia are keratin-filled cysts trapped under the skin's surface.
Related topics
This is a foundational entry in the SYNC Skin Encyclopedia and is expanded over time. Educational information only — not medical advice.
