What are milia?

Milia are small, keratin-filled cysts that often appear as tiny white bumps on the skin, primarily around the eyes, cheeks, and forehead. They form when keratin, a protein found in skin cells, becomes trapped beneath the surface of the skin. While they can sometimes be confused with small deposits of sebum because of their appearance, they are actually distinct in their composition. Milia are not caused by blocked pores filled with dirt or oil, nor are they categorized as comedones, which include blackheads and whiteheads. Understanding the nature of milia is crucial for proper skin care treatment and management, as they typically do not require medical treatment but can be removed by professionals if desired.