What are milia?

Milia are typically described as pearly white enclosed cysts that form beneath the skin. They are small, raised bumps that usually appear on the face, particularly around the eyes, cheeks, and forehead. Milia occur when keratin, a protein found in the skin, becomes trapped beneath the surface, leading to the formation of these cyst-like structures. They are commonly associated with newborns, but can also occur in people of all ages due to various factors, including skin damage, sun exposure, or the use of heavy skincare products.

The other options describe different conditions related to skin issues. Inflamed hair follicles, for instance, pertain more to folliculitis or acne, while darkened pores typically refer to the manifestation of blackheads. Small open comedones also relate to acne but are specifically the open variant of blackheads. Understanding the distinct nature of milia as enclosed cysts is essential for proper identification and treatment in esthetics practice.