These epidermal cysts are small, firm white papules. Milia are whitish, pearl-like masses of sebum and dead cells under the skin with no visible open often mistakenly called whiteheads (whiteheads look similar but are soft). Hardened and closed over, milia are more common in dry skin types and may form after skin trauma, such as a laser resurfacing or chronic exposure to UV radiation.

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They resemble small sesame seeds and are almost always perfectly round. They are usually found around the eyes, cheeks, and forehead; also caused by blocked follicles openings from thick moisturizers. Depending on the state, milia can be treated in the spa.

Milia must be lanced, or opened, to be extracted.