Small white dots under the eyes are common. While these tiny bumps are typically harmless, understanding their nature and causes can provide clarity. This information helps in navigating appropriate care.
Identifying Common White Dots
Milia are small, pearly white or yellowish bumps that feel firm and often appear in clusters. Syringomas are small, smooth, rounded bumps, typically flesh-colored or yellowish, often occurring in groups around the lower eyelids and cheeks. Xanthelasma are distinct yellowish patches or plaques, flat or slightly raised, commonly forming on or near the inner corners of the eyelids. They tend to have a soft or slightly firm texture and can appear symmetrically on both eyes.
Understanding Their Causes
Milia develop when keratin, a skin protein, becomes trapped beneath the skin’s surface. This occurs because dead skin cells do not shed properly, allowing new skin to grow over them and create tiny cysts. Factors like sun exposure, injuries, or long-term use of certain steroid creams can contribute to milia formation.
Syringomas result from an overgrowth of cells within the eccrine sweat glands. Genetic factors, stress, physical activity, and some medical conditions like Down syndrome or diabetes can play a role.
Xanthelasma are cholesterol deposits under the skin. They are frequently associated with elevated levels of low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol or other lipid disorders. Underlying conditions such as diabetes, liver disease, obesity, or a family history of high cholesterol can also contribute to their development.
Managing and Preventing White Dots
For milia, gentle skincare practices can help manage their appearance. Regularly cleansing with warm water and a mild soap, followed by gentle exfoliation using a soft cloth or mild chemical exfoliants like alpha hydroxy acids or retinoids, can encourage the trapped keratin to release. Avoid attempting to squeeze or pick at milia, as this can lead to skin damage, scarring, or infection.
Preventing new milia involves consistent sun protection, such as daily use of sunscreen with at least SPF 30, and selecting non-comedogenic skincare and makeup products. Maintaining a regular skincare routine that supports healthy skin cell turnover can also be beneficial. If milia persist or are cosmetically bothersome, a dermatologist can perform professional extraction procedures using sterile tools.
When Professional Help is Needed
While many white dots under the eyes are benign, there are specific situations where seeking professional medical advice is recommended. If the white dots are persistent, grow in size, become painful, or cause itching, a medical evaluation is advisable. Consulting a healthcare provider is also important if there is any uncertainty about the bumps.
Xanthelasma, in particular, warrants medical assessment by a doctor. These yellowish plaques can sometimes signal underlying health conditions, such as high cholesterol, heart disease, or diabetes, even if they appear harmless. A doctor may recommend blood tests to check lipid levels and assess overall health, guiding further management if necessary.