What skin condition is characterized by small, white cysts often seen on the face?

The condition characterized by small, white cysts often seen on the face is milia. Milia are tiny, keratin-filled cysts that usually appear on the cheeks, around the eyes, and on the forehead. They occur when keratin becomes trapped beneath the skin’s surface and can appear as small, white bumps that resemble whiteheads but are not inflamed or painful.

Unlike acne, which is characterized by inflamed lesions, or psoriasis, which involves red, scaly patches, milia are non-inflammatory and do not cause discomfort. Dermatitis refers to a broader category of skin inflammation that may present with redness, itching, and swelling, which does not describe the specific presentation of small, white cysts. Understanding this distinction helps in identifying milia accurately as a common skin condition.