Those small, persistent white bumps on your face—often around the eyes, cheeks, or forehead—can be incredibly frustrating, especially when they linger for months and refuse to budge no matter how much you cleanse or exfoliate. Many people mistake them for acne and try popping or harsh scrubbing, only to end up with irritation, redness, or even scarring that makes the skin look worse. The truth is, these aren’t pimples at all; they’re milia, tiny keratin-filled cysts that form under the skin’s surface, and treating them like acne can do more harm than good.

But here’s the good news: with the right gentle, evidence-based approach, you can help prevent new ones, encourage gradual improvement in skin texture, and restore a smoother, more even appearance. Stick around—by the end, you’ll discover a simple daily plan that dermatologists often recommend for lasting clarity, plus why some popular DIY trends might be holding you back.
The Common Confusion: Why Those White Bumps Aren’t Acne (And Why It Matters)

Milia and acne may look similar at first glance—both can appear as small white spots—but they’re fundamentally different. Acne involves clogged pores filled with oil, bacteria, and inflammation, often leading to redness, swelling, or pus. Milia, on the other hand, are small cysts formed when keratin (a natural skin protein) gets trapped beneath the surface as dead skin cells fail to shed properly.

This distinction matters because acne treatments like harsh scrubs or pore-stripping products can irritate milia-prone skin and potentially worsen the issue. Studies and dermatologist insights show that milia are harmless and non-inflammatory, but forcing them out risks damage, infection, or scarring—something no one wants when aiming for clearer skin.

Research from sources like the Cleveland Clinic highlights that milia affect people of all ages, though they’re especially common in adults dealing with skin changes over time.
Milia Explained: Causes, Types, and Why They Appear Around Eyes and Face