Milia, those tiny white or yellowish skin cysts that form underneath the surface of the skin, are a common skin condition that can cause irritation and a cosmetically unappealing appearance. Whether they appear on the eyelids, forehead, nose, or cheeks, milia can be tricky to remove on your own. Below, we will explore the different types of milia, their causes, treatment options, and where to find milia removal near you.
What Are Milia?
Milia are small, pearly white or yellowish skin cysts that form due to the trapping of keratin under the skin's surface. The cysts are caused by blockages in the follicles, which are the tiny holes on the skin where hairs grow out of the skin surface. When the follicle is clogged with dead skin cells and keratin, it can lead to the formation of milia.
Types of Milia
There are several different types of milia, each with its own underlying cause:
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Neonatal Milia: Occurs in as much as 50% of newborns and typically on the face, scalp, or upper torso. Usually clears up on its own within a few weeks and can be confused with baby acne.
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Primary Milia: More common in older kids, teenagers, and adults. Develops when keratin builds up below the skin on the eyelids, forehead, nose, or cheeks. Typically resolves on its own after a few weeks or months.
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Secondary Milia: Develops after injury to the skin, such as a burn, blistering rash like poison ivy, or long-term sun damage. May also appear after using corticosteroid creams for a long time.
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Juvenile Milia: Symptom of genetic disorders such as nevoid basal cell carcinoma syndrome, pachyonychia congenita, Gardner syndrome, or Bazex-Dupré-Christol syndrome.
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Milia En Plaque: Rare form of milia that presents as broad, flat, raised patches and is commonly associated with genetic or autoimmune skin disorders.
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Multiple Eruptive Milia: Rare and serious form of milia that presents as crops of milia on the face, upper arms, and upper abdomen and can be itchy.
Causes of Milia
Milia can be caused by a variety of factors, including:
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Genetic predisposition
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Blistering due to skin conditions (such as pemphigus)
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Sun damage
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Long-term use of steroid creams
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Damage to the skin (such as burns or wounds)
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Certain foods or beverages
Treatment Options for Milia
Milia typically resolves on its own within a few weeks to months, but there are treatment options available if discomfort is present or if milia are persistent. These include:
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At-home Treatments: Employing gentle chemical exfoliants, such as glycolic acid or salicylic acid, can help remove dead skin cells and prevent milia. Facial peels and chemical peels may also be considered.
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Professional Treatments: Dermatologists can perform comedone extraction, curettage and cautery, cryotherapy, or laser therapy to remove milia.
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Topical retinoids: Applying a retinoid cream can help unclog pores and prevent milia formation.
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Oral antibiotics: Prescribed in combination with topical tretinoin for the treatment of milia en plaque.
Where to Find Milia Removal Near Me
Finding milia removal near you can be as simple as researching local dermatologists or aesthetics professionals. When searching, consider factors such as cost, reputation, and the provider's experience with various skincare conditions, including milia.
Conclusion
Milia may be a common skin concern, but with the right treatment approach, it is possible to effectively remove these tiny white bumps and prevent them from appearing again. Whether you choose to treat milia naturally at home or seek professional removal, consulting with a dermatologist is the first step in managing this skin condition effectively.
