Bumps under the eyes are a common skin concern. The skin in this area is particularly thin and delicate, differing significantly from skin elsewhere on the face. This unique characteristic means these bumps are typically not the same type of “pimples” one might encounter in other areas. Understanding these distinctions is important for proper management.
Common Bumps Under the Eyes
Small, white or yellowish bumps under the eyes are often milia. These tiny cysts form when keratin, a protein found in skin, becomes trapped beneath the surface. Milia are not inflammatory acne, distinguishing them from traditional pimples that involve oil glands and bacteria. They appear in the under-eye area because the skin is thinner and may not shed dead cells as effectively.
Other benign skin growths can also appear around the eyes, though less common than milia. Syringomas are small, skin-colored, pink, or brownish bumps arising from overactive sweat glands. They often appear in clusters, typically around the eyes or on the eyelids. These growths are generally harmless.
Xanthelasma presents as yellowish, flat, or slightly raised plaques, usually located on or near the eyelids, often closer to the inner corner. These growths are deposits of cholesterol (lipids) that accumulate under the skin. While harmless, xanthelasma can sometimes indicate underlying health conditions like high cholesterol levels or other metabolic issues.
Factors Contributing to Their Appearance
Several factors contribute to the formation of these bumps, particularly milia. Consistent use of heavy or occlusive eye creams and moisturizers can trap dead skin cells, preventing natural shedding. Similarly, certain makeup products, such as concealers or foundations, if not thoroughly removed or if pore-clogging (comedogenic), can also contribute.
Sun damage is another factor, as prolonged UV exposure can thicken the skin. This thickening makes it more challenging for dead skin cells to shed naturally, increasing the likelihood of keratin becoming trapped. Physical trauma, such as blistering, burns, or harsh exfoliation in the under-eye region, can also lead to secondary milia.
Individual genetic predispositions play a role, with some people more prone to developing these bumps. Additionally, the natural aging process slows the skin’s exfoliation rate, which can increase milia incidence in older adults.
Management and Prevention Strategies
Managing existing bumps and preventing new ones involves a gentle, consistent skincare approach. Gently cleanse the eye area daily to remove makeup, dirt, and impurities. When choosing products for the under-eye region, opt for lightweight, non-comedogenic formulations that will not clog pores or trap dead skin cells.
Certain ingredients support healthy skin cell turnover. Gentle retinoids, such as retinol, increase skin cell renewal, aiding in preventing keratin buildup. Alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs) like glycolic or lactic acid, or beta hydroxy acids (BHAs) like salicylic acid, provide mild chemical exfoliation. These should be used with extreme caution and in low concentrations around the delicate eye area.
Sun protection is also an important preventive measure. Wearing sunglasses and applying broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher to the eye area helps prevent sun-induced skin thickening and damage. It is important to avoid picking, squeezing, or attempting to extract the bumps at home, as this can lead to skin damage, infection, or scarring.
When to Seek Professional Advice
Consulting a healthcare professional, such as a dermatologist, is advisable in several situations. If there is uncertainty about the type of bump present, a medical professional can provide an accurate diagnosis, which is the first step toward appropriate management. It is also important to seek professional advice if the bumps are persistent, increase in size or number, or begin to spread.
Medical consultation is recommended if bumps cause discomfort, such as pain, itching, or inflammation. For individuals bothered by the cosmetic appearance of these bumps, a dermatologist can offer safe and effective removal options, such as professional extraction of milia or specific treatments for syringomas or xanthelasma.
In cases of xanthelasma, professional evaluation is especially important as these growths can sometimes signal underlying health issues, such such as elevated cholesterol levels or other metabolic disorders, that may require medical attention. A doctor can perform tests to determine if there are any associated systemic conditions. Prompt medical care is also advised for any new skin growth that changes in appearance, bleeds, or does not resolve.