Milia can occur at any age and are particularly common in newborns. However, they can also develop in adults, especially around the eye area where the skin is delicate and thin. They are usually harmless and not associated with any underlying medical condition.
2. Milia 101: Why These Little Cysts Form Around the Eyes
Milia form when dead skin cells become trapped in small pockets near the skin’s surface instead of exfoliating naturally. This trapped keratin becomes a tiny cyst. The formation of milia is not fully understood, but it is believed to be related to skin damage, such as from sun exposure, or the use of heavy skincare products that can clog the skin’s surface.
The eye area is particularly prone to milia because the skin is thinner and more sensitive to environmental damage and product buildup. People who use thick creams or heavy makeup around the eyes without proper cleansing may be more susceptible to developing milia.