Milia are small, hard white bumps that can appear on the eyelids, under the eyes, and other parts of the face. Although harmless, they can be frustrating and affect your confidence. These tiny bumps, commonly called milia bumps, form when keratin becomes trapped under the skin.
At Knott Street Dermatology, we specialize in milia supportive therapy and other dermatological solutions to help you achieve healthy, glowing skin. In this blog, we’ll explore what causes milia, how to treat them effectively, and how to prevent them from recurring.
What Are Milia and Why Do They Form?
Milia are small, pearl-like white bumps around the eyes, often mistaken for whiteheads or other skin conditions. Unlike acne, milia are not caused by clogged pores but rather by keratin—a protein found in skin tissue—that gets trapped beneath the skin’s surface.
Common Types of Milia:
- Primary Milia: Form naturally and are common in infants and adults.
- Secondary Milia: Appear after skin damage, like burns or blisters.
Factors That Contribute to Milia:
- Overuse of thick creams or oil-based skincare products.
- Sun damage causing skin thickening.
- Lack of regular exfoliation leading to dead skin buildup.
- Skin trauma or injuries.
How to Get Rid of Milia Under the Eyes
Treating milia on eyelids or under the eyes requires care and expertise, especially since the skin in this area is delicate. Here are the most effective ways to manage and remove milia:
1. Professional Extraction at Knott Street Dermatology
For stubborn milia spots, professional extraction is the safest and most effective option. Our dermatologists use sterile tools to gently remove the bumps around your eyes without causing damage.
2. Topical Treatments
- Retinoid creams can promote skin cell turnover, helping to dissolve tiny bumps under the eyes.
- A dermatologist may recommend gentle exfoliating agents to prevent the formation of new white dots around the eyes.
3. Milia Supportive Therapy
At Knott Street Dermatology, we offer personalized supportive therapy, including chemical peels and microdermabrasion, tailored to your skin type to address white bumps on the face and milia spots effectively.
4. Laser Treatments
For persistent cases, laser therapy can be used to remove hard white bumps on the face safely and precisely.
5. Home Remedies
While home remedies can provide temporary relief, they are not always safe for sensitive areas. Avoid aggressive scrubbing or squeezing tiny bumps under the eyes, as it can lead to scarring or infection.
Preventing Milia Around Eyes
Prevention is key to avoiding the recurrence of milia. Follow these tips to maintain healthy skin:
1. Choose Non-Comedogenic Products
Opt for skincare products labeled “non-comedogenic” to prevent pore blockages that can lead to white dots around the eyes.
2. Exfoliate Regularly
Gentle exfoliation can help remove dead skin cells and reduce the chances of forming little white lumps on the face.
3. Sun Protection
Protect your skin from sun damage by using a broad-spectrum sunscreen, which can prevent the thickening of skin that often leads to milia.
4. Hydrate Without Overloading
Use lightweight moisturizers to keep your skin hydrated without causing white bumps on your face that are not milia.
5. Consult a Dermatologist Regularly
Routine visits to Knott Street Dermatology can help you manage existing milia spots and prevent future ones.
When to See a Dermatologist
If you notice persistent bumps under your eyes or small bumps around the eyes that don’t go away, it’s time to consult a professional. Delicate areas like the eyelids require expert care to avoid complications like scarring.
At Knott Street Dermatology, we specialize in treating various skin conditions, including milia. Our experts ensure safe, effective removal and provide personalized aftercare to prevent recurrence.
Why Choose Knott Street Dermatology?
At Knott Street Dermatology, we prioritize your skin health and confidence. Our team of experienced dermatologists offers:
- Customized treatment plans for milia and other skin concerns.
- Advanced procedures like chemical peels, laser therapy, and supportive skincare solutions.
- Expert advice on preventing conditions like white spots around the eyes or little bumps under the eyes.
Milia can be a stubborn and frustrating skin condition, but with the right care and expertise, they can be managed effectively. Whether you’re dealing with red bumps under your eyes or hard white bumps on your face, Knott Street Dermatology is here to help.
Don’t let tiny bumps under your eyes or white spots around your eyes affect your confidence. Schedule an appointment with us today and take the first step toward healthier, clearer skin.

