They’re both small, white bumps — but the cause and treatment are very different.
It’s easy to confuse whiteheads and milia since they both appear as tiny, white bumps on the skin. However, they’re distinct skin issues that require different treatment approaches.
Let’s break down the difference so you can get your skin back on track!
What Are Whiteheads?
Whiteheads are a form of closed comedones, a type of acne. They form when pores become clogged with oil, dead skin cells, and sometimes bacteria. The closed pore traps the buildup beneath the surface, creating a white, raised bump.
Cause: Excess oil production, clogged pores, and bacteria.
Common Areas: Mostly on the face, particularly the forehead, chin, and nose.
Treatment:
- Use salicylic acid to exfoliate pores.
- Retinoids can help prevent clogging.
- Topical benzoyl peroxide can reduce bacteria.
What Are Milia?
Milia are small, hard, white cysts that form when keratin (a protein found in skin) gets trapped beneath the surface. They’re not acne — they’re a form of cyst that can occur when skin cells are trapped inside the skin.
Cause: Often caused by heavy skincare products, sun damage, or skin trauma (like harsh exfoliation).
Common Areas: Typically found around the eyes, cheeks, and sometimes on the forehead or nose.
Treatment:
- Avoid heavy or comedogenic products.
- Gently exfoliate to prevent keratin buildup.
- Professional extraction by a dermatologist
How to Tell the Difference
- Whiteheads are soft to the touch and usually pop up as part of acne.
- Milia are harder, almost like tiny pearls, and don’t cause inflammation or pain. They often appear as clusters and are more stubborn.
What NOT to Do
- Don’t try to pop milia — this can lead to scarring.
- Don’t over-exfoliate — you might aggravate both whiteheads and milia.
How to Prevent Both
- Follow a consistent cleansing and exfoliation routine.
- Avoid using too many heavy, pore-clogging products.
- Make sure your skin is adequately hydrated without overloading it.
If you’re dealing with persistent whiteheads or milia, don’t fret — both are treatable, and sometimes, you just need the right products and a little patience.