California Cosmetology Written ExamSkin CareHard

A client has small, hard, pearly-white bumps around the eyes with no visible pore opening. This closed comedone condition is known as:

  1. APapules
  2. BMilia
  3. CBlackheads
  4. DWhiteheads
Show answer & explanation

Correct answer: B. Milia

Milia are small, hard, keratin-filled cysts that appear as pearly-white bumps with no visible follicle opening, commonly found around the eyes. Unlike whiteheads, milia lack a duct connection and typically require lancing by a licensed professional or physician.

Why the other options are wrong

  • A. Papules are small, raised, inflamed acne lesions without a whitish cyst appearance.
  • C. Blackheads are open comedones with a visible dark, oxidized opening.
  • D. Whiteheads are closed comedones but are typically softer and associated with a follicle, unlike hard milia.

Milia

Small, hard, whitish keratin-filled cysts embedded in the skin with no visible follicle opening, often found around the eyes.

  • Type of closed comedone
  • No visible pore opening, unlike whiteheads
  • Often requires lancing by a licensed professional for removal

Memory trick: 'Milia = Millet seeds' trapped under skin, hard and white

More Skin Care questions