Many people notice small white bumps appearing on their skin at some point in their lives. These tiny bumps are often called milia. They are very common and usually appear around the eyes, cheeks, nose, or forehead.
Although milia may look similar to whiteheads, they are actually quite different. Milia form when keratin, a protein found in the skin, becomes trapped beneath the surface.
While milia can occur at any age, they are often noticed more frequently as skin changes over time.
What Are Milia?
Milia are small, firm white bumps that develop just beneath the surface of the skin. They are sometimes called milk spots.
Unlike acne, milia are not caused by clogged pores from oil or bacteria. Instead, they form when dead skin cells become trapped under the skin.
Because they are trapped beneath the surface, milia cannot be squeezed out the way a pimple might be.
Where Milia Commonly Appear
Milia often appear in areas where the skin is delicate.
Common locations include:
• Around the eyes
• On the cheeks
• On the nose
• On the forehead
In some cases, they may also appear on the chest or other areas of the body.
Why Milia May Become More Noticeable With Age
As skin ages, its natural renewal process slows down. This means dead skin cells may not shed as quickly as they once did.
When this happens, keratin can become trapped beneath the surface of the skin, leading to the formation of milia.
Changes in skin texture, dryness, and reduced elasticity may also make these small bumps more noticeable.
You can learn more about these changes in our guide to why aging skin loses elasticity.
How Milia Are Treated
In many cases, milia disappear on their own over time. However, some people prefer to remove them for cosmetic reasons.
Dermatologists may remove milia using a sterile needle or specialized tools designed for safe extraction.
Gentle exfoliation may also help improve skin renewal and reduce the likelihood of new milia forming.
Skincare Habits That May Help Prevent Milia
Several simple skincare habits may help reduce the chances of milia forming.
These include:
• Using gentle exfoliating products
• Avoiding very heavy creams around the eyes
• Keeping skin clean and moisturized
• Supporting healthy skin renewal
Maintaining a consistent skincare routine can help keep the skin smoother and healthier overall.
Final Thoughts
Milia are small white bumps that form when keratin becomes trapped beneath the surface of the skin. Although they are harmless, they can sometimes be frustrating or cosmetically bothersome.
Similarly, Some people may also notice rough bumps on areas like the upper arms caused by a condition called keratosis lpilaris, which occurs when keratin,(the same substance that causes milia) builds up and blocks hair follicles.
Fortunately, milia are very common and can often be improved with gentle skincare practices or simple dermatological treatments.