NIC Barber Written (Theory) ExamFacial and Skin Care ServicesEasy
A barber is performing a skin analysis and observes small, pearly white bumps under the skin, typically around the eyes, that do not appear inflamed or red. These are characteristic of which common skin condition?
- APustules
- BPapules
- CMilia
- DBlackheads
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: C. Milia
Milia are small, harmless, pearly white or yellowish cysts that occur when keratin becomes trapped beneath the skin surface, often around the eyes. They are distinct from acne lesions.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. Pustules are inflamed, pus-filled lesions associated with acne.
- B. Papules are small, red, inflamed bumps, also typically associated with acne.
- D. Blackheads (open comedones) are dark, open pores filled with oxidized sebum and dead skin cells, not pearly white bumps.
Milia
Small, white, or yellowish cysts that appear on the skin, typically around the eyes, caused by trapped keratin.
- Often mistaken for whiteheads but are not acne lesions.
- Form when skin flakes or keratin become trapped under the skin surface.
- Usually harmless and can be extracted professionally with appropriate tools.
Memory trick: Pearly White Bumps? Must Be Milia.