Milia are those tiny, pesky white bumps that can appear around your eyes, nose, or cheeks, and they can be as frustrating as they are mysterious. Often confused with whiteheads, milia are actually small cysts formed when keratin (a skin protein) gets trapped beneath the surface of the skin. Unlike acne, milia don’t have a pore or opening that allows them to be easily popped or squeezed, which can make their removal more complicated.
If you’ve ever tried to get rid of milia on your own, you’ve probably realized they don’t respond like regular pimples. But don’t worry—there are plenty of safe and effective ways to get rid of them. In this article, we’ll break down everything you need to know about milia: what causes them, how to treat them, and, most importantly, how to prevent them from coming back.
What is Milia?
Milia (singular: milium) are small, white or yellowish bumps that develop on the skin. These harmless cysts form when dead skin cells and keratin become trapped under the surface of the skin. While they are more common in newborns, milia can affect people of all ages.
Milia typically appear around the eyes, nose, and cheeks but can also form on other parts of the body. They are most commonly mistaken for acne, but unlike acne, milia don’t result from clogged pores and don’t respond to acne treatments.
What Causes Milia?
Milia can develop for a number of reasons, and understanding the causes can help you avoid them in the future. Here are some of the most common causes:
1. Sun Damage
Excessive sun exposure is a leading cause of milia, especially in adults. The UV rays can damage your skin’s natural barrier, leading to keratin buildup and the formation of these tiny cysts. This is one reason why dermatologists recommend wearing sunscreen daily to protect your skin from harmful UV rays.
2. Skin Trauma
Milia can develop after your skin experiences trauma, such as burns, blistering rashes, or other skin injuries. Procedures like laser treatments, chemical peels, or even just sunburns can also contribute to the formation of milia.
3. Use of Heavy Skin Care Products
Oily or thick skin care products, such as certain creams, lotions, or makeup, can clog pores and contribute to the trapping of keratin beneath the skin. This is particularly true if these products contain pore-clogging ingredients or are not suitable for your skin type.
4. Genetics
Some people are more prone to developing milia due to their genetic makeup. If milia runs in your family, you may notice that you get them more frequently than others.
7 Treatments to Get Rid of Milia
While milia can go away on their own, this process can take several weeks or even months. If you’re looking for faster relief, here are seven proven treatments to help you get rid of milia safely and effectively.
1. Use a Gentle Exfoliant
One of the easiest ways to treat milia is by using a gentle exfoliating product. Exfoliation helps to remove dead skin cells from the surface of your skin, preventing the buildup of keratin. Opt for exfoliants that contain alpha-hydroxy acids (AHAs) like glycolic or lactic acid, which help to dissolve the upper layer of dead skin cells without irritating your skin.
For sensitive skin, a mild lactic acid serum is a great option. This helps keep the skin smooth while preventing the formation of new milia.
2. Start Using Retinol
Retinoids, including over-the-counter retinol products, are known for their skin-renewing properties. Retinol helps to speed up cell turnover, which can prevent the formation of milia and also treat existing ones by softening the keratin plugs inside.
Be sure to introduce retinol gradually into your routine, as it can be potent and may cause irritation, especially if you have sensitive skin. Use it at night, and always pair it with sunscreen during the day.
3. Chemical Peels
For more stubborn milia, a chemical peel might be necessary. Chemical peels use strong exfoliating acids to penetrate deeper layers of the skin, helping to remove trapped keratin. A peel containing glycolic acid can help prevent milia by encouraging the shedding of dead skin cells.
If you opt for a chemical peel, it’s best to consult a dermatologist, as over-the-counter peels can be too harsh and may worsen the condition if not used correctly.
4. Avoid Pore-Clogging Products
Prevention is key when it comes to managing milia. One way to prevent them is by avoiding skin care products that are too heavy or contain pore-clogging ingredients. Look for lightweight, non-comedogenic moisturizers, and avoid using oily or thick creams, especially around your eyes.
If you use eyebrow growth serums that contain castor oil or other pore-clogging oils, switch to formulas that use lightweight ingredients like peptides or biotin, which won’t aggravate milia or clog pores.
5. Professional Extraction
If home remedies aren’t working, or if you’re not comfortable treating milia on your own, a dermatologist can safely remove them. The most common procedure involves using a sterile needle or a small blade to open the cyst and extract the keratin inside.
It’s important not to try this at home, as improper extraction techniques can lead to scarring or infections. Always leave extractions to the professionals.
6. Sunscreen with UVA/UVB Protection
Since sun damage is a major cause of milia, using a high-quality sunscreen with broad-spectrum UVA/UVB protection can help prevent them. Choose a lightweight sunscreen that won’t clog your pores, and apply it every morning—even on cloudy days.
Look for formulas that offer SPF 30 or higher and feel weightless on the skin, so you’ll want to reapply throughout the day without feeling greasy.
7. See a Dermatologist for Specialized Treatments
In some cases, over-the-counter treatments may not be enough to get rid of stubborn milia. A dermatologist may recommend more advanced treatments, such as laser therapy, microdermabrasion, or professional-grade peels to address the issue more effectively.
These treatments target the deeper layers of the skin and can help reduce the appearance of milia while improving the overall texture of your skin.
How to Prevent Milia from Coming Back
Once you’ve treated milia, you’ll want to take steps to prevent them from coming back. Here are some simple strategies to keep your skin smooth and milia-free:
- Wear Sunscreen Daily: Protect your skin from UV damage by applying sunscreen every day, even in winter. This prevents the skin damage that can lead to milia.
- Exfoliate Regularly: Gentle exfoliation once or twice a week helps to remove dead skin cells and prevent buildup, reducing the likelihood of milia formation.
- Avoid Thick, Oily Products: Stick to lightweight, non-comedogenic skin care products that won’t clog your pores.
- Don’t Pick or Squeeze: As tempting as it may be, never try to pop or pick at milia. This can lead to scarring or infection, making the situation worse.
Conclusion: Say Goodbye to Milia with the Right Treatments
Milia may be small, but they can be stubborn. Fortunately, with the right treatments and preventive measures, you can keep your skin clear and free of these tiny cysts. Whether you choose gentle exfoliation, retinoids, or professional extraction, the key is to be patient and consistent with your treatment routine.
By taking steps to protect your skin from sun damage and using the right products, you can prevent milia from forming in the future. So, if you’re tired of dealing with those little white bumps, now you know exactly how to get rid of them safely and effectively.
