Bumps Around the Eye: What They Are, Why They Happen & How They’re Treated

Small bumps around the eye can look like tiny pearls or white dots beneath the skin. Although common in infants, adults can develop them as well. While usually harmless, their appearance can be frustrating and occasionally confusing if mistaken for acne or irritation.

Symptoms & Appearance

These bumps often:

Look white or yellowish
Feel firm or smooth
Measure about 1–2 mm
Are not itchy or painful
May turn red if rubbed or irritated

Most people seek care for cosmetic reasons rather than discomfort.

Possible Causes — Most Commonly Milia

The most frequent cause of these bumps is milia. Milia form when dead skin cells become trapped beneath the surface, creating small firm cysts. They can appear:

Around the eyes
On the eyelids
On the cheeks or forehead

Occasionally, bumps around the eyes may be pimples, which tend to look red or inflamed and may have a white or black head. Acne treatments, however, typically do not work for milia.

Prevention & Skin Care Tips

Milia can occur at any age, but certain habits make them more likely:

Heavy or occlusive creams
Rich eye products
Thick sunscreen formulations
Make-up that clogs pores (comedogenic)
Sun-damaged skin (more common with age)

Helpful adjustments include:

Choosing non-comedogenic skincare and cosmetics
Using broad-spectrum, mineral-based sunscreen for daily protection
Cleansing gently and avoiding harsh scrubbing

Treatment Options

Among infants, milia usually disappear on their own. In adults, they may persist longer. Professional treatment may involve:

Minor extraction performed by a dermatologist or trained clinician

It is not recommended to squeeze, pop, or cut milia at home due to risk of:

Scarring
Infection
Eye irritation

Workplace & PPE Considerations (Canadian Context)

Certain workplaces and PPE can influence eye-area skin irritation, including:

Protective goggles
Face shields
Masks (heat and humidity)
Cosmetic requirements in customer-facing roles
Sweat + friction from helmets or headgear

Good skincare hygiene, gentle cleansing, and product selection can support comfort and appearance at work.

Disclaimer

This content is for public education only and not a substitute for medical diagnosis or treatment. Anyone with persistent eye-area bumps, irritation, or visual changes should seek advice from a qualified healthcare professional.