White spots under the eyes are a common skin occurrence. This article provides general information on their common types and what they might indicate about skin health.
Understanding Common White Spots
Milia are tiny, pearl-like bumps commonly appearing around the eyes, cheeks, and nose. These benign cysts form when keratin, a protein found in skin, hair, and nails, becomes trapped just beneath the skin’s surface. While often seen in newborns, milia can affect adults due to factors like sun damage, heavy skincare products, or certain skin conditions that impair normal exfoliation.
Syringomas are another type of white or yellowish bump that can appear in clusters, frequently around the lower eyelids. These benign tumors originate from the eccrine sweat glands, which are responsible for producing sweat to cool the body. Syringomas are generally harmless, though they are more prevalent in women and can have a genetic predisposition.
Xanthelasma presents as yellowish, flat, soft deposits, often found on or near the inner corners of the eyelids. These growths consist of fatty deposits, specifically cholesterol, accumulating under the skin. While typically harmless, xanthelasma can sometimes indicate elevated cholesterol levels or other underlying health conditions, such as diabetes or thyroid issues.
Sebaceous hyperplasia involves enlarged sebaceous (oil) glands, appearing as small, flesh-colored or yellowish bumps with a subtle central indentation. These bumps arise when oil-producing cells overgrow and trap sebum. They are frequently observed on the face, including the under-eye area, especially in middle-aged or older adults, and are often influenced by sun exposure and genetics.
When to Consult a Doctor
Seeking professional medical advice is advisable when white spots under the eyes cause concern or exhibit changes. If the type of spot is uncertain, a dermatologist can provide an accurate diagnosis, distinguishing between benign conditions and, less commonly, more serious issues.
Consult a healthcare professional if the spots are growing in size, changing in color or shape, or begin to bleed or cause pain. These changes warrant evaluation to rule out potential underlying conditions or complications. For instance, xanthelasma can be a sign of elevated cholesterol or other metabolic disorders, necessitating a blood test to assess lipid levels and overall cardiovascular health.
A doctor’s visit is also recommended if there are signs of infection around the spots, such as redness, swelling, or warmth. Professional diagnosis ensures appropriate treatment and guidance, especially if cosmetic removal is desired or self-treatment is being considered.
Approaches to Treatment
Professional removal options for white spots under the eyes depend on the specific type of blemish. For milia, dermatologists often perform manual extraction using a sterile needle to release trapped keratin. Other methods include cryotherapy, which freezes the spots with liquid nitrogen, or laser therapy, which uses focused light to target and reduce the bumps. Electrocautery, which employs mild electrical pulses to cauterize the skin, is also used for removal.
For conditions like syringomas, treatment options can include laser therapy, surgical excision, or electrosurgery to reduce their appearance. Sebaceous hyperplasia may be treated with laser vaporization or light electrocautery to shrink enlarged glands. In some cases, topical medications containing retinoids or salicylic acid might be used to manage sebaceous hyperplasia by promoting skin exfoliation and reducing sebum buildup.
Addressing underlying health conditions is a component of treatment for certain white spots, such as xanthelasma. Managing high cholesterol through diet, lifestyle adjustments, or medication, like statins, can prevent new deposits from forming, although existing ones may not disappear on their own. While general skincare practices like gentle exfoliation and consistent sunscreen use can support overall skin health and potentially reduce the risk of some spots, attempting to pick or squeeze any white spots is not advised, as this can lead to scarring or infection.