Milia are common, white or yellowish bumps that appear on the face. While typically not red, they can appear reddish under certain circumstances. This redness is usually a secondary reaction, not an inherent characteristic.
What Milia Typically Looks Like
Milia are small, dome-shaped cysts that form beneath the skin. They are typically 1-2 millimeters across and pearly-white, off-white, or yellowish. These bumps are filled with keratin, a protein found in skin, hair, and nails. Milia commonly appear around the eyes, nose, cheeks, forehead, and sometimes on other areas of the body. They are usually asymptomatic, causing no pain or itching.
When Milia Can Appear Red
Milia are not inherently red, but they can appear reddish due to various factors. Inflammation from irritation or trauma is a common reason. This irritation can stem from picking or squeezing milia, harsh scrubbing, or friction. When irritated, the surrounding skin can become red, though the milium’s center typically remains white.
Secondary milia, forming after skin damage (e.g., burns, rashes, sun exposure), can also become irritated and appear red. Rarely, milia can become infected if the skin barrier is compromised, causing redness, pain, or pus. A less common type, milia en plaque, involves a cluster of milia on a raised, inflamed skin patch, which is naturally red.
Other Conditions That Might Look Red
Since milia are not typically red, other red skin bumps might be confused with them. Acne often presents as small red bumps, sometimes with a white or black center. Unlike milia, acne is caused by clogged pores, excess oil production, and bacterial infection, leading to inflammation.
Folliculitis, an inflammation of hair follicles, can also cause red bumps that may resemble milia. These can be itchy and sometimes contain pus. Contact dermatitis, an allergic reaction to a substance, can cause red, itchy, and sometimes bumpy rashes. Conditions like eczema can also lead to inflamed, red, and scaly patches of skin.
When to Consult a Doctor
Consult a healthcare provider if red skin bumps are painful, itchy, or spread. Seek medical attention if bumps increase in size, show infection signs (pus, warmth), or if you are uncertain about the diagnosis. Self-diagnosis can be difficult, and attempting to remove milia at home can lead to scarring or further infection. A dermatologist can accurately assess the condition and recommend appropriate treatment options.