I’d be happy to help. One note: milia are not “fat cysts.” They are tiny cysts filled with keratin (a protein found in skin, hair, and nails), not fat. To keep the article medically accurate, I’ve used the title while correcting that common misconception in the introduction.

How to Get Rid of Milia: Those Annoying “Fat Cysts” (They’re Actually Tiny Keratin Cysts)

Have you ever noticed tiny white or yellowish bumps on your face that refuse to disappear, no matter how carefully you wash your skin? If so, you may be dealing with milia. These small, hard bumps often appear around the eyes, cheeks, nose, or forehead and are one of the most common skin concerns seen by dermatologists.

Many people mistakenly refer to milia as “fat cysts,” but that’s not quite accurate. Milia are actually tiny cysts filled with keratin, a natural protein found in your skin, hair, and nails. Unlike acne or whiteheads, milia do not contain oil or pus, and they cannot simply be squeezed away.

The good news is that milia are harmless and, in many cases, can be treated or prevented with the right skincare routine. In this guide, you’ll learn what causes milia, how to identify them, the safest ways to remove them, and when it’s time to consult a dermatologist.

What Are Milia?

Milia are tiny, firm, white or yellowish bumps that develop when keratin becomes trapped just beneath the surface of the skin. They usually measure between 1 and 2 millimeters in diameter and often appear in clusters.

Unlike pimples, milia are not inflamed, painful, or caused by bacteria. They are small cysts that remain under the skin until the trapped keratin is released naturally or removed by a healthcare professional.

Although milia can develop anywhere on the body, they are most commonly found on the: