What are those white cysts that appear around the eyes (and why we shouldn’t try to get them out)

It is common that, in certain people, white nodules appear on the skin of the face, more specifically around the eyes and that can be confused with pimples. However, they are very different from pimples and must be treated with care.

O incredible.club explains to you what these white dots really are and why it’s not a good idea to try to remove them at home. Remember: when in doubt, you should always consult a specialist.

Perhaps the name does not seem familiar to you, but the white nodules we are talking about are actually epithelial cysts, and when they appear in groups, they are called milia (or milium). These small lesions occur in people of any ethnicity or age, although they are especially common in newborns.

The formations arise when keratin (a protein), gets trapped under the skin (dermis). They are white or yellowish and are one to two millimeters in diameter. They occur in up to 50% of newborns and appear most often on the face, cheeks, nose and chin, but can also occur on the upper torso and extremities. Generally, they do not cause pain, but there are those that can present redness and irritation, caused by the rubbing of rough tissues.

In the case of babies, the cause is unknown. White spots can even be born with them. In adults, however, they are usually associated with some previous damage to the skin. For example:

sores with blisters

burns

long term sun damage

Prolonged use of steroid creams

Procedures such as dermabrasion or laser skin rejuvenation

Loss of the skin’s natural ability to exfoliate (due to aging)

In most cases, the spots are not serious and will disappear on their own in a matter of months. As tempting as it may seem, trying to get them out on your own is a bad idea. If you try to pop them by pressing them, the most you’ll get is a red, irritated face with possible scarring and infection.

Although there is no specific treatment to eliminate these nodules, there are some precautions that can help, both to prevent and to promote their disappearance more quickly:

Clean the affected area daily with mild soap

Use steam to open pores

Exfoliate your skin two or three times a week

Avoid excessive exposure to the sun and use sunscreen

Avoid thick creams or oil-based products

Opt for topical retinoids (vitamin A-derived creams or gels)

Although medical treatment is not necessary, there are those who prefer to eliminate them for aesthetic reasons. In these cases, a dermatologist can help with a simple procedure that doesn’t require anesthesia.

Have you ever had nodules like this? How was your experience?