Bumps around the eyes are a common concern. While many are harmless and resolve without extensive intervention, understanding their types can help alleviate anxiety and guide appropriate action.
Common Benign Bumps
Milia are small, white or yellowish cysts that frequently appear around the eyes. They form when keratin becomes trapped beneath the skin’s surface. Milia are not pimples and should not be squeezed, as this can lead to inflammation or scarring. These tiny bumps are common in newborns, but adults can also develop them due to factors like sun damage, long-term corticosteroid use, or certain skin conditions.
Styes are painful, red bumps that typically form along the edge of the eyelid. They are usually caused by a bacterial infection within an oil gland or eyelash follicle. A stye can cause localized swelling, tenderness, and sometimes a feeling of something in the eye, with a pus spot potentially appearing at its center.
Chalazia are swollen bumps on the eyelid that result from a blocked meibomian gland. Unlike styes, chalazia are not painful, though they can become red, swollen, and tender as they grow. A chalazion may start as an internal stye, but it evolves into a non-infectious cyst. If a chalazion becomes large, it can sometimes press on the eyeball and cause blurry vision.
Xanthelasma presents as soft, flat, yellowish patches or bumps on or near the eyelids, most often near the inner corner of the eye. These deposits consist of cholesterol that accumulates under the skin. While generally harmless, xanthelasma can sometimes indicate underlying health conditions such as high cholesterol, thyroid problems, or diabetes.
Syringomas are small, firm, skin-colored or yellowish bumps that often appear in clusters around the eyes, particularly on the lower eyelids. These benign growths originate from the eccrine sweat ducts. The exact cause of syringomas is not fully understood.
Inflammatory and Allergic Skin Reactions
Contact dermatitis around the eyes occurs when the skin comes into contact with an irritant or an allergen, leading to an itchy rash. The skin of the eyelids is particularly susceptible due to its thinness. Common triggers include cosmetics, fragrances, or topical medications. Symptoms can include redness, scaling, swelling, stinging, and itching.
Periorbital dermatitis is an inflammatory skin condition characterized by small red, scaly papules and pustules located around the eyes. It can be triggered or worsened by factors such as the prolonged use of topical corticosteroids, certain cosmetic products, or an impaired skin barrier.
Folliculitis, an inflammation or infection of hair follicles, can also manifest as small bumps around the eyes. This condition often resembles an acne breakout, presenting as small red bumps that may be itchy or tender. It typically occurs when damaged hair follicles allow infection to enter.
When to Consult a Professional
While many bumps around the eyes are benign and may resolve on their own, certain signs warrant medical evaluation. If a bump persists for more than a week or two, continues to grow, or becomes significantly painful, consult a healthcare provider. Increased pain, spreading redness, or the presence of pus or blood leakage also require professional advice.
Any bump that affects vision, causes the entire eyelid to swell shut, or is accompanied by fever or chills warrants prompt medical attention. If bumps frequently recur or if there are changes in their color, shape, or if they bleed, get them checked by an eye care specialist. Self-treating or attempting to squeeze bumps in the delicate eye area can worsen the condition or lead to complications.