Milia on the Eye

Milia removal is usually done upon request, but if they are located in areas prone to injury or causing significant discomfort—such as milia on the eye—a doctor may recommend treatment.

What Are Milia?

Milia are single or multiple white bumps on the face that form in the ducts of the sebaceous glands. They are most commonly found under the eyes, on the eyelids, temples, cheeks, and chin. Milia develop due to the accumulation of keratin, sebum, and dead skin cells. Because they appear as small, white or yellowish, round or oval pimples resembling millet seeds, they are often referred to as “milk spots” or “millet spots” on the face.

Milia, sometimes referred to as fat deposits, can form at different depths in the skin and vary in composition and location. As a result, they differ in color, size, and density. Based on these characteristics, a doctor selects the most appropriate removal method.

The primary classification of these formations is based on their depth within the skin:

1. Epidermal Milia are located in the upper layer of the epidermis. They form due to excessive pore blockage and consist primarily of keratin, making them highly dense.
2. Dermal Milia are found in the deeper dermal layer. They are less dense and, due to their high collagen content, often have a yellowish tint.

White bumps on the face can be classified as:

• primary Milia – congenital or acquired due to excessive sebum production;
• secondary Milia – develop as a result of mechanical or chemical skin damage.

In children, milia may disappear on their own as the sebaceous glands undergo natural changes. However, if milia appear under the eyes, on the cheeks, or temples in adulthood, they should be removed, and preventive measures should be taken to avoid recurrence.

Causes of Milia

In newborns, milia appear due to a hereditary predisposition. At this age, white bumps are most commonly seen on the chin, around the nose, or near the eyes. In adults, milia are primarily caused by excessive sebum production and clogged sebaceous glands. Other contributing factors include:

• hormonal imbalances related to puberty, pregnancy, endocrine disorders, etc;
• improper skincare, such as inadequate cleansing or using poor-quality or unsuitable cosmetic products;
• overuse of peels and chemical exfoliation at home;
• mechanical skin trauma;
• dermatological conditions like hyperkeratosis, seborrhea, or acne;
• poor diet, including excessive consumption of fatty, spicy, sugary, or smoked foods;
• gastrointestinal and liver diseases;
• excessive UV exposure.

Treating milia may require a comprehensive approach—not only removal but also addressing the underlying causes to prevent recurrence.

Which Doctor Should You See for White Bumps?

If you develop white bumps on your skin, you should schedule an appointment with a dermatologist. In most cases, a visual examination is sufficient for diagnosis, and the doctor will suggest the best treatment option.

In some situations, consultation with other specialists—such as an endocrinologist, gastroenterologist, or cosmetologist—may be necessary. These doctors help identify the underlying cause of milia and recommend corrective measures to prevent recurrence.

How to Get Rid of Milia?

Congenital milia on the face often disappear with age in children. They may also resolve on their own during adolescence once hormonal balance stabilizes. In adults, however, milia tend to be persistent, so their removal is a personal choice. While milia do not pose a health risk, they can become infected if injured, leading to inflammation and discomfort. In such cases, seeking medical treatment is recommended. Additionally, milia on the eye should be removed if they cause irritation or excessive tearing.

At the LeoDerm clinic, dermatologists will offer the optimal solution for removing milia from the face.

Needle Puncture or Curettage (Mechanical Cleaning)

This method is a classic and one of the most effective ways to quickly remove milia. The procedure involves a doctor using a sterile needle to make a small puncture on the surface, after which the contents of the clogged gland are extracted using curettage (a special instrument). Mechanical cleaning may be slightly uncomfortable but usually takes only a few minutes. At the LeoDerm clinic, the procedure is performed by an experienced specialist, ensuring no risk of residual scarring.

Radio Wave Therapy

Radio wave therapy is a non-contact method for removing milia. Radio waves are used to “dry out” and extract the contents from the gland. A specialized device emits high-frequency radio waves that affect the skin without causing damage. Radio wave therapy is used to treat both single and multiple formations, offering minimal risks of complications and low trauma. That’s why it is suitable for delicate areas with sensitive skin, such as effectively removing milia under the eyes and on the eyelids.

Improving skin condition and reducing the risk of milia recurrence can be achieved through professional cosmetic procedures that remove dead cells, excess oil, cleanse the pores, and stimulate regeneration processes. These may include facials and peels with professional products.

All the listed methods for removing milia have their own characteristics and advantages, so the choice depends on the individual indications of the patient, the number and size of the milia, as well as skin sensitivity. It is recommended to consult a qualified dermatologist or cosmetologist to choose the best method and ensure safe and effective treatment. During the rehabilitation period, which lasts 1-3 weeks, it is forbidden to visit baths or saunas, pools, and natural water bodies. The skin should be protected from sun exposure and temperature changes.

Reducing the risk of recurrent milia can be achieved through prevention:

• proper comprehensive skincare;
• a balanced diet, with minimal fatty, sweet, and spicy foods;
• giving up harmful habits;
• quality protection of the skin from UV rays;
• preventive check-ups with a gastroenterologist and endocrinologist.

If milia have appeared on your skin, schedule a consultation with a dermatologist at the LeoDerm clinic in Lviv. Experienced doctors will identify the cause of the breakout, choose the optimal method for removing the formations, and advise on proper skincare for skin prone to such formations.