Milia are small, white bumps that can appear on the skin, often mistaken for whiteheads or acne. These harmless cysts form when dead skin cells or keratin get trapped beneath the skin’s surface. While milia are most common in newborns, they can also affect children, adolescents, and adults. Though they’re not a serious health concern, many people find them unsightly and seek ways to eliminate them.

What Are Milia?

Milia are tiny, white, or yellowish bumps that usually appear in clusters on the face—particularly around the eyes, cheeks, and chin. Unlike acne, milia are not caused by bacteria or clogged pores but are rather small cysts filled with keratin, a protein found in the skin.

While milia are common in newborns and usually disappear on their own, adults may experience persistent milia that are more challenging to eliminate. Luckily, several methods can help speed up the healing process and reduce the risk of more bumps forming.

1. Don’t Pick, Poke, or Try to Remove Them Yourself

It can be tempting to pick at milia, but this is one of the worst things you can do. Trying to pop or remove milia at home can lead to scarring, infections, and even worse skin irritation. Milia are not like pimples that can be extracted by squeezing. Instead, they require specific removal techniques, often involving a dermatologist’s help.

For babies under six months, it’s best to leave the bumps alone, as milia tend to resolve on their own. If you’re concerned about your child’s skin, consult a pediatrician.

2. Cleanse the Area Gently

Using a gentle cleanser to wash your face daily is essential for keeping your skin clean and healthy, especially when dealing with milia. Opt for a paraben-free, mild soap that won’t strip your skin of its natural oils. Harsh cleansers can dry out your skin, leading to irritation and potentially more milia.

After washing, be sure to pat your skin dry with a clean towel rather than letting it air dry, which can cause further drying and chafing.

3. Steam Open Your Pores

Steaming can help to open up your pores and release trapped irritants that might be causing milia. After cleansing your face, try a simple steaming technique:

• Run a hot shower and sit in the steamy bathroom for about 5-8 minutes.
• The steam will gently open your pores, making it easier to release dead skin cells and other irritants.
• Afterward, pat your face dry and rinse with lukewarm water to remove any lingering debris.

This method can be a soothing addition to your skincare routine, especially if you have dry or sensitive skin.

4. Gently Exfoliate the Area

Exfoliation can help remove the dead skin cells that contribute to milia formation. Look for gentle exfoliating cleansers that contain ingredients like salicylic acid, glycolic acid, or citric acid. These ingredients help to keep keratin production in check and prevent it from building up under the skin.

Start by exfoliating once a week to see how your skin reacts. Over-exfoliating can irritate your skin, which may make the problem worse, so be sure to monitor how your skin feels.

5. Try a Facial Peel

Facial peels with exfoliating ingredients may also help remove milia, but they should be used cautiously. Using a peel that’s too harsh for your skin could cause irritation and lead to more milia. If you already use facial peels in your skincare routine, make sure they contain salicylic acid or glycolic acid, as these are effective for clearing milia.

If you’re new to facial peels, it’s best to introduce them slowly or consult a dermatologist to ensure they won’t worsen the issue.

6. Use a Retinoid Cream

Retinoid creams, derived from vitamin A, are often recommended for treating milia. Retinoids increase cell turnover, which helps to prevent dead skin cells from clogging the pores and forming milia. Products containing retinol, a milder version of retinoid, can also be effective.

When using retinoid or retinol products, it’s essential to apply them once a day, preferably at night, after cleansing your skin. Be aware that retinoids can make your skin more sensitive to sunlight, so always use sunscreen during the day.

7. Opt for a Light Facial Sunscreen

Daily sunscreen use is crucial to prevent skin damage, especially if you’re using exfoliants or retinoids. Sun damage can aggravate your skin and worsen conditions like milia. Look for a non-comedogenic sunscreen that won’t clog your pores and contains an SPF of 30 or higher.

Choose sunscreens that are specifically formulated for the face and avoid products with heavy oils, which can trap keratin under the skin and lead to more milia.

When to See a Dermatologist

While milia often resolve on their own, especially in newborns, adults with persistent or bothersome milia may need to consult a dermatologist. A dermatologist can manually remove milia by making a tiny incision and extracting the cyst with a sterile tool. This process is quick, relatively painless, and prevents further damage to the skin.

If you’ve tried various methods and your milia aren’t going away, a professional dermatologist can provide more targeted treatments and advice.

Conclusion: Say Goodbye to Milia with These Simple Tips

Milia can be a frustrating skin condition, but with the right approach, you can clear them up and prevent new ones from forming. From gentle cleansing and exfoliation to using retinoid creams and facial peels, there are several ways to tackle milia effectively. Remember, patience is key—milia often take time to resolve, and aggressive treatments may do more harm than good.

For persistent cases, don’t hesitate to seek the help of a dermatologist to ensure the best outcome for your skin. With these tips in mind, you’re well on your way to smoother, clearer skin.