Milium
Also known as: Milia (plural)
Tiny white bumps on the face filled with keratin. Extremely common in newborns and adults. Harmless.
What to look for
Side-by-side comparison
Normal face
Smooth surface
Milium
Tiny white dome, cannot pop
Milia are tiny (1-2mm), dome-shaped, white or yellowish bumps that appear just beneath the skin surface. They are small cysts filled with keratin (the protein that makes up the outer layer of skin) trapped under a thin layer of epidermis.
In newborns, milia are extremely common (affecting up to 50%) and typically resolve spontaneously within weeks to months. In adults, they commonly appear on the face - especially around the eyes, cheeks, and forehead - and may persist indefinitely without treatment.
Adult milia can be primary (arising spontaneously) or secondary (developing after skin trauma such as burns, blistering diseases, dermabrasion, or chronic sun damage). They are completely benign.
Treatment is not necessary but can be done for cosmetic reasons: a dermatologist can extract milia using a sterile needle or blade to de-roof the cyst and express the contents. Home extraction is not recommended due to infection risk and scarring.
Quick self-check
Does this look like milium? Answer 2 questions.
Are they tiny (1-2mm) white or yellowish bumps, mainly on the face?
Are they hard and cannot be squeezed out like a pimple?
Risk factors
- Newborn period (primary milia)
- Heavy skincare products (occlusives, rich eye creams)
- Sun damage (secondary milia)
- Previous skin procedures or blistering
When to see a dermatologist
- ⚠Only if milia are cosmetically bothersome
- ⚠If white bumps are growing, changing, or appear unusual
- ⚠Widespread milia (may indicate an underlying condition)
Often confused with
Not sure if this is milium? Compare:
Want a more detailed check?
Our full ABCDE checker evaluates 5 clinical criteria in 30 seconds.
Full ABCDE check →Frequently asked questions
Should I pop milia myself?
No. Milia are encased under a layer of skin and cannot be squeezed out like pimples. Attempting to do so risks infection and scarring. A dermatologist can extract them safely with a sterile needle.
Do heavy eye creams cause milia?
Possibly. Occlusive or very rich skincare products can contribute to milia formation in some people. If you are prone to milia, try lighter, non-comedogenic products around the eye area.