What is Milia Under Eye: Causes, Treatment, and Removal
Fact check by: Aarish Maqsood
Author: Muneeb Maqsood
Key Takeaways
- Milia under the eyes are minuscule bumps that are filled with keratin. They are typically small white or yellowish bumps under the skin and are not harmful, firm, or painful.
- Milia are more likely to develop around the eyes as this area has thinner skin. The sensitive area is more likely to trap dead skin cells, keratin, makeup, or over-heavy skincare products.
- Some individuals develop milia as a result of the use of heavy eye creams, Vaseline, and slugging. While these aren't necessarily a bad thing, under-eye bumps can get worse if they are too thick or occlusive.
- Milia are not whiteheads or acne. However, they do not have an open pore and will not pop like a pimple, so squeezing can lead to irritation, scarring or infection.
- Professional treatment is the safest way to remove. While mild milia may be improved upon with gentle skin care, the use of light skin products and gentle exfoliation, stubborn milia under the eyes should be removed by a dermatologist or eye specialist.
What Is Milia Under the Eye?
Milia under the eye are small white or yellowish bumps that result from keratin trapped under the skin. Keratin is a natural protein that is in your skin.
They are typically small, hard, and painless. Commonly, they occur as a result under the eyes, on the eyelids, or around the cheeks.
Under-eye milia are not acne. They are not filled with pus, and typically cannot be squeezed open like whiteheads.
What Does Under-Eye Milia Look Like?
Typically, under-eye milia appear as:
- Small white or yellow bumps with bumps around them.
- Small hard lumps of skin
- Smooth, round bumps
- Bumps that persist for weeks or months.
- Grows in groups around the eye or cheekbone
These are usually painless and not red unless there is skin irritation.
Why Does Milia Form Under the Eyes?
The skin around the eyes is thinner and softer than the rest of the facial area. This increases the likelihood that the product will trap dead skin, product buildup, or keratin.
Common causes include:
Trapped Dead Skin Cells:
The first is trapped dead skin cells.
Milia are the result of a lack of proper shedding of dead skin cells. They do not reach the surface of the skin but remain trapped beneath the skin and form tiny cysts.
Heavy Eye Creams
In some individuals, under-eye milia is caused by thick eye creams, greasy balms and heavy moisturizers. This is particularly the case if heavy products are applied every day, and are found in the vicinity of the eyes.
Vaseline or "Slugging", near the eyes
While not directly pore-clogging like acne-causing products, Vaseline is extremely occlusive. For some people who tend to get milia, applying lots of product near the eyes could cause milia to accumulate and increase the chances of bumps.
Sun Damage
Excessive sun exposure may cause the skin to become thickened and impair normal skin turnover. This can make it more likely that milia can occur around the eyes.
Skin irritation or trauma
Milia under the eyes can develop following any irritation or damage to the skin, including:
- Burns
- Rashes
- Blisters
- Harsh exfoliation
- Laser treatments
- Chemical peels
This type is sometimes referred to as secondary milia.
Makeup Buildup
Concealer, eye make-up or inadequate makeup can cause buildup around the eyes. This could lead to a clogged skin feeling and milia-prone areas over time.
Is Under-Eye Milia Dangerous?
Milia of the under-eye area are typically benign. They do not spread, they are not contagious, and they are not typically indicative of a serious skin condition.
But, as they look so close to the eyes, care should be taken in treatment. Avoid squeezing, scratching around the eye area, and using sharp tools.
Milia Under Eye vs Whiteheads
Let's examine how these two types of acne compare.
Milia and whiteheads may appear similar, but they're not the same.
Whiteheads are a form of acne that is caused by blocked pores, oil, and bacteria. Milia are little cysts beneath the skin filled with keratin.
For this reason, acne treatment might not really remove milia rapidly.
Under-eye Milia is a common condition that can be treated in a variety of ways.
How to Treat Milia Under the Eye
Treatment varies based on the duration, location, and size of the bumps.
Leave Them Alone
Many milia resolve spontaneously, particularly if they are new milia. If the bumps are not painful or spreading, it may be preferable to wait and observe.
Use a Gentle Cleanser instead.
Cleanse your face with a mild face wash to remove sweat, sun cream and make-up. Don't scrub around the eyes as it may irritate thin skin.
Use Lightweight Eye Products
If you are using thick eye cream, you may want to try using a lightweight, non-comedogenic eye cream. Apply only a little around the eyes.
Do not apply multiple under-eye eyeliners.
Exfoliate Carefully
While the under-eye area is sensitive, gentle exfoliation could help prevent dead skin buildup. Avoid the use of strong acids near the lash line.
In the event that any of the ingredients, such as glycolic acid, lactic acid or salicylic acid, are used, avoid contact with the eyes and exercise caution when using.
Retinol With Caution
Retinol can irritate the under-eye area, although it is believed to help with skin turnover. If it is needed, use a low-strength product if your skin can tolerate it.
Avoid using strong retinoids near the eyes unless recommended by a dermatologist.
See a Dermatologist
Professional removal is the safest method of under-eye milia removal. They can be removed with sterile instruments or other safe methods by a dermatologist.
Professional options may consist of:
- Sterile extraction
- De-roofing
- Cryotherapy
- Chemical peels
- Laser treatment
Milia that are near the eyelid or lash line should be professionally removed.
Can You Remove Under-Eye Milia at Home?
Never attempt to extract under-eye milia yourself, using a needle, extractor, or sharp objects. The skin around the eyes is very thin, and DIY removal can lead to:
- Infection
- Bleeding
- Scarring
- Dark marks
- Eye injury
How to Prevent Milia Under the Eyes
Prevention of new milia is possible with home care; removal should be performed by trained professionals.
While not all cases are preventable, these habits can help reduce the risk:
- Remove your makeup before going to bed
- Choose eye products that are light.
- Try not to apply too much Vaseline around the eyes
- Wear sunscreen daily
- Do not over-exfoliate
- Do not touch or rub under the eyes
- Don't over-complicate your skin care routine.
When Should You See a Dermatologist?
If you experience any of the following, consult a dermatologist:
- Milia stay for several months
- Bumps are very close to the eyelid
- The area turns red and/or painful
- Bumps spread quickly
- Not sure if it's milia
- You want a safe removal
Milia spots under the eye are not always "milia". Syringomas or xanthelasma may have a similar appearance, and a professional examination is helpful.
Final Thoughts
Milia under the eye are small, harmless cysts that are made up of keratin and may develop due to dead skin, excessive product buildup, or irritation.
They are not acne and should not be popped. If it's mild, a mild skin care regimen and lighter products can be beneficial. Dermatologist removal of milia is the safest option for stubborn milia or milia in the eye area.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs): Milia Under Eye
What causes milia under the eyes?
In most cases, under-eye milia is due to the entrapment of keratin or dead skin cells beneath the skin. Sun damage, skin irritation, heavy eye cream, and makeup buildup can also play a factor.
Can Vaseline cause under-eye milia?
Some individuals might develop under-eye milia due to the high occlusivity of Vaseline. Avoid thick application near the eyes if prone to milia.
Can eye cream cause milia?
Yes, some individuals may get milia from the use of thick or greasy eye cream products. If bumps are observed following rich creams, use a light eye product.
Can I pop milia under my eye?
No. Don't squeeze under-eye milia. The skin is fragile and may scar, get infected or irritated when squeezed.
How long does under-eye milia last?
The milia will disappear in weeks or may persist for months. Professionally remove persistent milia.
Does retinol help under-eye milia?
Retinol might help by helping the skin cells to turnover; however, it needs to be used with caution around the eyes. Retinoids with a strong effect should only be used under professional advice.
Is under-eye milia permanent?
No, milia isn't necessarily permanent. Some clear on their own and the persistent ones can be eliminated by a dermatologist.
What is the safest way to remove milia under the eyes?
Dermatologist removal is the safest, particularly if milia are located near the eyelid or lash line.
Can eye cream cause milia under the eyes?
Indeed, in some individuals, the use of thick or greasy eye ointments can contribute to milia. If you do see little white bumps after using an eye cream, opt for a lighter formula and apply less.
Why does every eye cream give me milia?
Your skin under your eyes may be sensitive to rich creams, oils or occlusive ingredients. Use a lighter gel eye product or put on a very small amount, just on the orbital bone.
Can Vaseline cause milia under the eyes?
Vaseline itself doesn't clog pores, however, it is extremely occlusive. For people who tend to develop milia under their eyes, applying a thick layer of vaseline can cause buildup and increase the chances of forming milia.
Should I stop slugging if I get under-eye milia?
Yes, if you see new milia, stop slugging around your eyes. Thick occlusive layers are too much for the thin under-eye area.
Can retinol help under-eye milia?
Retinol could be helpful, as it helps facilitate the turnover of skin cells; however, avoid using it close to the eye area. Opt for an eye-safe retinol cream or consult a dermatologist before using it near the eye.
Is glycolic acid good for under-eye milia?
The glycolic acid in it can aid in skin shedding; it can also irritate the under eye area. Avoid using strong acids near the lash line or eyelids.
Can I remove under-eye milia myself?
No. Avoid using a needle, extractor, or fingernails close to the eyes. Scars, infection, or eye injury can result from DIY removal.
Who should remove milia under the eyes?
The safest choice is your dermatologist. If the milia is near the eyelid or the tear duct, the services of an eye specialist may be required.
Why do milia keep coming back under my eyes?
They may return due to excessive skin care products, excess make-up, slow speed of skin shedding, sun damage or irritation by harsh products.
Can makeup cause under-eye milia?
Use of too much concealer or inadequate makeup removal can cause accumulation around the eyes. Gently remove all makeup at night and line the eyes with light makeup.
Should I use moisturizer under my eyes if I get milia?
Yes, but select one that is not heavy. Steer clear of heavy facial cream being used too close to the lash line.
How can I prevent under-eye milia?
Apply light eye products and use the correct method of makeup removal, avoid heavy occlusives near the eye, wear sunscreen, and refrain from harsh exfoliation around the eye.
SEO Expert, AEO & GEO Specialist
Muneeb Maqsood is an SEO Expert, AEO & GEO Specialist with over 5 years of experience focused on delivering measurable business growth. He helps brands improve search visibility, attract qualified leads, and most importantly, convert organic traffic into paying customers through strategic, intent-driven optimization.
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