New Jersey State Board Esthetics Practice Exam

What is the structure of milia?

1. Soft, puffy areas

2. White, hard sebaceous formations

3. Fluid-filled sacs

4. Dark, spotted lesions

The correct answer is: White, hard sebaceous formations

Milia are small, white, hard cysts that typically form when keratin becomes trapped beneath the surface of the skin. They are composed of a protein called keratin, which can be found in skin, hair, and nails. Milia often appear on the face, especially around the eyes and cheeks, though they can occur on other parts of the body as well. Unlike other skin structures, such as cysts that may contain fluid or softer areas that can be swollen and puffy, milia are characterized by their firm, dome-like appearance. They are not fluid-filled and do not have a dark, spotted look, making their typical look distinct from other types of skin lesions such as blackheads or age spots. Understanding the structure and characteristics of milia can aid in the correct identification and treatment within esthetic practices.