Milia are small, white, dome-shaped bumps that appear on the skin's surface. These tiny cysts contain keratin, a protein found naturally in skin cells, hair, and nail tissue. While they're completely harmless, milia can be a cosmetic concern for many people, particularly when they appear on visible areas like the face.
Understanding what causes these distinctive bumps and knowing how to address them properly can help you manage their appearance effectively. Let's explore everything you need to know about milia, from identification to treatment options.
What Causes Milia Formation?
Milia develop when dead skin cells and keratin become trapped beneath the skin's surface, forming small, pearl-like cysts. Several factors can contribute to their formation:
- Heavy skincare products or cosmetics that clog pores
- Sun damage
- Burns or blistering
- Genetic predisposition
- Long-term steroid use
While milia can affect anyone at any age, they're particularly common in newborns, where they're known as primary milia. In adults, they often develop as secondary milia following skin damage or due to certain skincare habits.
Identifying Milia vs. Other Skin Conditions
Milia have distinct characteristics that set them apart from other skin conditions:
Key Features of Milia
- 1-2 millimeters in size
- Pearly white or yellowish appearance
- Dome-shaped surface
- Firm to the touch
- No inflammation or redness
- Cannot be "popped" like pimples
Common Locations
Milia typically appear in these areas:
- Around the eyes and on eyelids
- Across the cheeks and nose
- On the forehead
- Around the mouth
- On the chest or genitals (less common)
Treatment Options for Milia
While milia often resolve on their own, particularly in infants, adults may need intervention for persistent cases. Professional treatment options include:
Professional Treatments
- Deroofing (careful removal of the cyst's top)
- Chemical peels
- Microdermabrasion
- Laser therapy
- Prescription retinoids
At-Home Care
Some gentle approaches can help manage milia:
- Regular exfoliation with gentle products
- Use of non-comedogenic skincare products
- Proper cleansing routine
- Steam treatments to soften skin
Prevention Strategies
Taking proactive steps can help reduce the likelihood of milia formation:
- Choose oil-free, non-comedogenic products
- Maintain a consistent skincare routine
- Protect skin from sun damage
- Remove makeup thoroughly before bed
- Avoid heavy, pore-clogging creams
Frequently Asked Questions
What causes milia to form on the skin, and who is most likely to get them? Milia form when dead skin cells and keratin become trapped beneath the skin's surface. While they can affect anyone, they're most common in newborns and people who use heavy skincare products or have experienced skin damage.
How can I tell the difference between milia and whiteheads or acne? Milia are harder, more pearl-like, and cannot be squeezed like whiteheads. They're also not inflamed or red like typical acne and are usually smaller and more uniformly white in appearance.
Do milia need any treatment, or will they go away on their own? In newborns, milia typically clear up within a few weeks without treatment. In adults, they may persist and require professional intervention for removal.
What are the safest and most effective ways to remove persistent milia? The safest removal methods are professional treatments performed by dermatologists, including deroofing, chemical peels, or laser therapy. Never attempt to remove milia at home through picking or cutting.
How can I prevent milia from developing, especially on my face? Prevention includes using non-comedogenic products, maintaining good skin hygiene, regular gentle exfoliation, and protecting your skin from sun damage. Avoiding heavy, pore-clogging creams is also important.
