White spots under the eyes are common. While typically benign, they can be a cosmetic concern. Understanding their nature and causes helps determine if professional attention or at-home care is needed.
Common Types of White Spots
Milia are small, firm, white or yellowish bumps. These tiny cysts form when keratin gets trapped beneath the skin. They often cluster under the eyes, appearing pearly or opaque.
Xanthelasma manifests as flat or slightly raised yellowish-white plaques. These deposits commonly appear on or around the eyelids, often symmetrically. Their color is due to cholesterol buildup within skin cells.
Syringomas are small, flesh-colored or yellowish bumps that frequently emerge in groups around the lower eyelids. These benign growths originate from sweat gland ducts. They are generally soft and can sometimes have a translucent quality.
Sebaceous hyperplasia presents as small, soft, yellowish bumps with a central indentation, resembling a donut shape. These growths result from enlarged oil-producing glands. They are typically found on the forehead, cheeks, and under the eyes.
Causes and Contributing Factors
Milia frequently develop from superficial skin trauma, such as sun exposure, harsh skincare products, or burns. Heavy, occlusive creams that trap skin cells may also contribute. Milia can appear spontaneously without clear cause, sometimes linked to genetics.
Xanthelasma associates with elevated cholesterol levels (hyperlipidemia). Individuals with high LDL cholesterol are more prone to these deposits. However, xanthelasma can also occur with normal cholesterol, indicating other contributing factors.
Syringomas are primarily linked to genetic predisposition; they often run in families. These growths typically become noticeable during adolescence or early adulthood, suggesting a developmental origin within sweat ducts. Environmental factors play a less significant role.
Sebaceous hyperplasia is often age-related, becoming more prevalent with age. Chronic sun exposure can exacerbate their appearance and growth. Genetic factors also play a role, as some individuals are predisposed to enlarged sebaceous glands.
When to Consult a Professional
Consult a healthcare professional if white spots under your eyes grow, change color, or bleed. Any discomfort, such as itching or pain, also warrants medical evaluation. A professional diagnosis is important if uncertain about the spot type, as different conditions require specific approaches.
Xanthelasma, in particular, should always prompt a doctor’s visit due to its connection to underlying health conditions. These yellowish plaques can indicate elevated cholesterol or other lipid disorders that may require medical management. A healthcare provider can accurately diagnose and recommend appropriate tests or treatments.
Treatment and Prevention Approaches
Professional treatments for white spots vary by type. For milia, a dermatologist can perform a simple extraction using a sterile needle or blade to remove trapped keratin. Other options, such as laser therapy, cryotherapy (freezing), electrocautery (heat), or surgical excision, are available for xanthelasma, syringomas, and sebaceous hyperplasia. These procedures are typically quick and performed in an outpatient setting.
At-home care and prevention strategies can help manage and reduce these spots. Gentle exfoliation, using products with retinoids or alpha hydroxy acids, can prevent milia by promoting cell turnover. Non-comedogenic skincare and makeup products help avoid clogging pores and oil glands.
Consistent use of broad-spectrum sunscreen prevents sun-induced skin damage that can contribute to spot formations. Maintaining a healthy diet, particularly one low in saturated and trans fats, can benefit those prone to xanthelasma, though dietary changes alone may not resolve existing deposits. Avoid picking or extracting spots yourself, as this can lead to irritation, infection, or scarring.