Navigating Milia And Skin Bumps

5 min readAug 29, 2024

By Shahara Lum

Dealing with skin bumps can be annoying and even embarrassing for some people. One common type of skin bump is milia, which are small, white cysts that often show up on the face and may be confused with whiteheads or acne. Knowing more about milia, including why they develop and how to manage them effectively, can help you maintain smoother and clearer skin.

What’s milia?

Milia are tiny, pearly white bumps that usually show up on the skin, particularly around the eye area, cheeks, and nose. These bumps develop when keratin, a natural skin protein, gets trapped beneath the skin’s surface. Unlike acne, milia are not caused by bacteria or clogged pores; rather, they are small cysts filled with keratin. They can develop at any stage of life and are frequently seen in both babies and adults. [2]

Is there a way to remove them?

Milia is most commonly removed through cryotherapy using liquid nitrogen. Other removal options include using heat, laser treatment, or extraction with a needle. All of these are done by professionals such as Dermatologists and Estheticians. These bumps typically appear in clusters on the nose, cheeks, and chin but can also occur in other areas. While milia often resolve on their own in babies, extraction or removal may be necessary for adults. Proper skin care can help speed up the disappearance of milia and prevent new ones from forming. [3]

Types of Milia

There are several types of milia, each with distinct characteristics:

1. Primary Milia: This type is the most common and appears spontaneously, often in infants (neonatal milia) but also in adults. They usually resolve on their own without treatment.

2. Secondary Milia: These develop due to skin trauma, such as burns, blistering, or long-term sun damage. Secondary milia may persist longer and require intervention to resolve.

3. Juvenile Milia: These are often associated with genetic disorders and can be more persistent than primary milia.

4. Milia en Plaque: A rare form where milia occur on an inflamed, raised patch of skin, often associated with autoimmune or genetic conditions.

What causes milia?

Milia occur when dead skin cells fail to shed properly and become trapped under the skin’s surface. Several factors can contribute to the development of milia:

• Sun Damage: Prolonged sun exposure can thicken the skin, making it harder for dead skin cells to be shed.

• Skin Trauma: Burns, blisters, and other forms of skin injury can lead to the formation of milia as the skin heals.

• Heavy Skincare Products: Using thick creams, ointments, or oil-based products can clog the skin and contribute to milia formation.

• Genetic Factors: Some individuals may be more prone to developing milia due to genetic predisposition.

• Aging: As the skin ages, its natural exfoliation process slows down, increasing the likelihood of milia.

How to prevent Milia

While milia can sometimes be unavoidable, certain practices can help minimize their occurrence:

1. Gentle Exfoliation: Regular, gentle exfoliation can help prevent dead skin cells from becoming trapped. Using products containing alpha-hydroxy acids (AHAs) or beta-hydroxy acids (BHAs) can promote cell turnover.

2. Sun Protection: Applying a broad-spectrum sunscreen daily can protect the skin from sun damage, reducing the risk of milia.

3. Avoid Heavy Skincare Products: Opt for lightweight, non-comedogenic skincare products to prevent clogging the skin.

4. Proper Skin Care Routine: Maintaining a consistent skincare routine that includes cleansing, exfoliating, and moisturizing can keep the skin healthy and less prone to milia.

Best ways to treat milia

If you already have milia, there are several treatment options available. It’s essential to approach milia removal with care to avoid scarring or infection.

Home Remedies

1. Steam Treatment: Gently steaming your face can open up the pores and make it easier to remove milia. After steaming, use a clean cloth to wipe away loosened dead skin cells.

2. Exfoliating Products: Incorporating exfoliating products into your skincare routine can help slough off dead skin cells and prevent new milia from forming.

3. Over-the-Counter Treatments: Products containing retinoids or AHAs can help promote cell turnover and reduce milia.

Professional treatments

If milia is persistent or bothersome, seeking professional treatment is often the best approach:

1. Manual Extraction: A dermatologist can safely extract milia using a sterile needle or blade. This procedure should only be performed by a professional to avoid infection or scarring.

2. Chemical Peels: Chemical peels can help remove the top layer of dead skin cells, reducing the appearance of milia and preventing new ones from forming.

3. Laser Therapy: In some cases, laser therapy can be used to target and remove milia without damaging the surrounding skin.

4. Microdermabrasion: This non-invasive procedure exfoliates the skin, promoting cell turnover and reducing milia.

Other Common Skin Bumps

While milia are a concern, other types of skin bumps can also cause distress. Here are a few common types and how to manage them:

Acne

Acne is a widespread skin condition that occurs when hair follicles become clogged with oil and dead skin cells. Managing acne involves:

• Cleansing: Use a gentle cleanser to remove excess oil and dirt.

• Topical Treatments: Products containing benzoyl peroxide, salicylic acid, or retinoids can help clear acne.

• Professional Help: Dermatologists can provide stronger treatments, such as prescription medications or chemical peels.

Keratosis Pilaris

Keratosis pilaris appears as small, rough bumps, often on the arms and thighs. While it is harmless, it can be managed with:

• Exfoliation: Regular exfoliation with a gentle scrub or chemical exfoliant.

• Moisturizing: Using a thick, hydrating lotion to soften the skin.

Lipomas

Lipomas are soft, fatty lumps that grow under the skin. They are usually harmless but can be surgically removed if they cause discomfort or cosmetic concerns.

Skin Tags

Skin tags are small, benign growths that often appear in areas where the skin folds. They can also be removed by a dermatologist.

It can be prevented!

Navigating skin bumps, such as milia, can be difficult, but with the correct care, you can effectively manage and prevent these frequent skin issues. Just make sure you seek advice from a dermatologist to ensure proper care and treatment!

Works Cited

[1] https://www.healthline.com/health/skin-disorders/how-to-get-rid-of-milia

[2] https://www.webmd.com/skin-problems-and-treatments/what-to-know-about-milia

[3] https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/milia

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