Milia: Causes, Prevention, and Treatment Options
Milia are small, white, keratin-filled cysts that can appear under the skin, particularly around the eyes, nose, and cheeks. These tiny bumps, often mistaken for whiteheads, typically range from 1 to 2 millimeters in size. Unlike acne, milia do not present visible pores and are firm yet painless to touch.
Understanding Milia
According to Heather Rypien, RN, BSN, CANS, an aesthetics nurse specialist, milia arise when dead skin cells become trapped beneath the skin’s surface. “They’re essentially dead skin cells that fail to exfoliate properly, leading to tiny cyst formations,” she explains. This disruption in the skin’s natural shedding process can occur due to several factors.
Causes of Milia
- Heavy Creams and Makeup: Using thick skincare products can hinder natural exfoliation.
- Sun Damage: UV exposure can thicken the skin, increasing the likelihood of trapped dead skin.
- Skin Trauma: Procedures like laser treatments that alter the skin can sometimes trigger milia.
- Genetics and Age: Milia can be influenced by genetic factors, and aging skin naturally slows down the cell turnover process.
Dr. Roger Kapoor, a board-certified dermatologist, states, “The area around the eyes is particularly susceptible to milia due to its delicate nature and fewer oil glands.” As skin ages, it tends to exfoliate less efficiently, further increasing the risk of developing these cysts.
Who is Affected?
While milia can affect individuals of all ages, newborns often experience them due to underdeveloped sweat glands. Typically, these cysts resolve naturally within a few weeks. In contrast, adults may find milia more persistent and challenging to eliminate.
Preventing Milia
To reduce the likelihood of milia developing, consider the following preventive measures:
- Gently exfoliate the skin regularly.
- Avoid heavy creams, especially around the eye area.
- Ensure thorough makeup removal.
- Use sunscreen consistently to protect against UV damage.
Rypien advises looking for skincare products with active ingredients such as retinol, glycolic acid, and salicylic acid, which support cell turnover and maintain smooth skin.
Treatment Options for Milia
At-Home Remedies
While milia are generally harmless, they will not disappear on their own without intervention. Dr. Kapoor suggests the following at-home techniques:
- Apply a warm compress twice daily for 5-10 minutes to soften the cysts.
- Incorporate retinol or exfoliating acids gradually to encourage turnover of dead skin cells.
Dr. Kiran Mian, a board-certified dermatologist, recommends starting with over-the-counter retinoids to facilitate the removal process, particularly for those new to such products.
Professional Treatments
If at-home methods do not yield results, or if milia become widespread, professional intervention may be necessary. A dermatologist can safely extract milia using specialized tools, ensuring minimal discomfort and avoiding damage to the delicate skin around the eyes.
When to Consult a Dermatologist
Persistent milia that multiply or affect self-esteem warrant a consultation with a dermatologist, advises Rypien. While they pose no health risks, untreated milia can grow larger and become more difficult to remove over time.
In summary, while milia are common skin conditions with various underlying factors, understanding them can lead to effective prevention and treatment strategies.