How to Cover Up Undereye Bumps

By Valerie Monroe
Valerie Monroe
Photo: Jonathan Skow
Q: What can I do about the tiny, light bumps on the skin under my eyes?

A: It sounds as if you've got small cysts called milia. You may have a genetic propensity for them, or they may have developed after a bad sunburn, says Joel Schlessinger, MD, past president of the American Society of Cosmetic Dermatology & Aesthetic Surgery. A dermatologist can remove them by using either a needle or an electrical current. (I've had the needle extraction: piece of cake.) Try not to use heavy eye creams, which can precipitate them.

Bottom line: Exfoliating daily encourages cell turnover, which can help prevent milia. So you might use a cleanser or moisturizer with alpha or beta hydroxy acids (try La Roche-Posay Biomedic LHA Cleansing Gel, $42), or a prescription retinoid (like Retin-A) or over-the-counter retinol cream (like Skin Medica Retinol Complex, $50) under your eyes.

Beauty 101

From the January 2009 issue of O, The Oprah Magazine



As a reminder, always consult your doctor for medical advice and treatment before starting any program.