Milia vs Acne: How to Tell the Difference

Not all white bumps on your face are acne — some are milia

Milia are small white bumps that appear most commonly on the nose, around the eyes, and sometimes on the chin and cheeks. They typically show up in clusters and can look a bit like tiny whiteheads. You can develop milia at any age, though it's especially common in newborns—which is why it's sometimes called "baby acne." The good news: milia is far less troublesome than true acne.

What's the difference between milia and acne?

Milia forms when dead skin cells or keratin (a protein found in skin and hair) become trapped beneath the skin's surface, creating a small bump. The exact reason this happens isn't fully understood, but milia behaves very differently from acne. Acne is driven by hormones and bacteria, and it can become inflamed. Milia, by contrast, is not inflammatory and won't cause scarring.

Excessive sun exposure can trigger milia because UV damage makes skin rough and dry. When dead skin cells struggle to shed evenly, they get stuck underneath—and that's when milia forms. Since it's painless, doesn't scar, and often disappears on its own, treatment is usually unnecessary.

Professional removal is straightforward

In newborns, baby milia typically clears within a few weeks after birth. But if milia bothers you as an adult—whether for cosmetic reasons or comfort—it can be safely removed. When milia appears near the eyes, a dermatologist or ophthalmologist with cosmetic experience can handle it without risk.

Common removal methods include chemical peels, laser treatment, cryotherapy (freezing), and diathermy (heat therapy). For milia on other parts of the face—cheeks, chin, nose—you can remove it at home with a sterilised needle, lancet, or comedone extractor.

Be careful around the eyes—always see a professional

A comedone extractor is a small pencil-shaped tool with a sharp lancet on one end and a round loop on the other. It's designed to remove both acne lesions and milia. Always disinfect it before use.

While a comedone extractor is convenient and effective for home use, never use it near your eyes. The skin around the eyes is delicate and the risk of injury is real. If you want milia removed from the eye area, always consult a medical specialist. It takes just a few minutes, and it's the only way to ensure your vision and eye health stay protected.

When in doubt, leave it to the professionals—especially near your eyes.