Those annoying bumps are technically called milia, which are actually small cysts that have formed under the skin, usually appearing on your eyelids or on your nose or cheeks.
Those tiny white or yellow bumps under the skin are not worrisome, but they might get frustrating. Milia develop under the skin when bits of dead skin cells, made up of proteins called keratin become trapped and create really hard, little white balls.
Milia are essentially harmless and usually don’t need treated. Typically they will go away within a few weeks to months. But you may want to get rid of them sooner for cosmetic reasons. We suggest that you don’t pick at milia, it could make them worse.
No one really knows what causes milia or why some people get more of the bumps than others. Some experts suspect that using harsh or heavy skin products can cause the phenomenon, or possibly a shedding dysfunction.
A dermatologist can help make the diagnosis of milia if you are concerned about the appearance. You then may be directed to one of our aestheticians for removal if they are irritated or bother you cosmetically.
There is some evidence to suggest that topical retinoids like retinol or Retin-A could be beneficial at reducing the number of milia and to make removal easier. You really can’t squeeze them out. We would release it by making a very tiny nick in the skin, apply pressure around it, and force the hard ball out.