What are the small white bumps on the edge of the areola, what causes them, and how should they be managed?

Small white bumps near the areola may be caused by hormonal changes, normal skin aging, milia, sebaceous cysts, folliculitis, or other reasons. Treatment may include medications such as adapalene gel, isotretinoin soft capsules, azithromycin capsules, minocycline hydrochloride capsules, and fusidic acid cream, used under medical guidance. It is recommended to seek timely medical attention, identify the underlying cause, and receive appropriate treatment under the supervision of a qualified physician. Specific analysis is as follows:

1. Hormonal Changes: During special periods such as puberty, pregnancy, or lactation, fluctuations in hormone levels may lead to hyperplasia of sebaceous glands around the areola, resulting in small white bumps. This is a normal physiological phenomenon and generally does not require excessive concern.

2. Normal Skin Aging: With increasing age, natural skin aging may cause the skin around the areola to become rougher, leading to the appearance of small white bumps. This is a common and natural occurrence that typically does not require special treatment.

3. Milia: These may be related to infrequent bathing or inadequate skin cleansing. Such habits can lead to sebum blockage, forming firm, yellowish-white papules locally. It is recommended that patients use medications such as adapalene gel, isotretinoin soft capsules, or tazarotene cream as directed by a physician.

4. Sebaceous Cysts: These are usually caused by factors such as a greasy diet or irregular sleep patterns. These behaviors may lead to overproduction of sebum, causing it to become trapped in the sebaceous gland ducts and form cysts. These cysts typically appear as white bumps and may also be tender to touch. Patients are advised to take medications such as azithromycin capsules, minocycline hydrochloride capsules, or roxithromycin capsules under a doctor's supervision to improve symptoms.

5. Folliculitis: This may be associated with skin damage or scratching. Bacterial infection of hair follicles can trigger inflammation, leading to red papules or pustules around the areola. After pus drains from the pustules, small white bumps may remain. Patients should follow medical advice and use topical treatments such as fusidic acid cream, compound polymyxin B ointment, or cephalexin capsules.

In daily life, patients are advised to maintain good local hygiene, avoid staying up late, refrain from scratching or rubbing the affected area, and wear loose, breathable clothing, all of which can support recovery.