Milia: Tiny White Bumps Explained and How to Treat Them
What Is Milia?
Milia is a common condition that causes tiny white bumps on your skin. These small cysts form when keratin, a protein in skin cells, gets trapped underneath. You may see these pearly white spots on your face, especially around your eyes, cheeks, lips, eyelids, or nose. However, they can also be found on other parts of the body, such as the torso or genitalia, trunk and limbs.
These bumps are benign and are not painful or itchy, they don’t cause any long-term skin damage and will go away on their own. You may even mistake them for whiteheads but it’s important to note that milia are different from acne.
In Singapore, 40% of newborns get milia, making this condition not just a baby-related issue but one that can affect anyone.
If you suspect that you have milia on your skin, consulting a dermatologist to have your skin examined and recommend the best treatment for you is the best step to take.
What’s the Difference Between Milia and Milium?
Milia and milium are terms often used interchangeably, but they refer to different aspects of the same skin condition. “Milia” is the plural word for the small cysts called milk spots. One cyst is called a “milium.” A milium is also known as a single milk spot or an oil seed.
Milia Symptoms
- Dome-shaped cysts: Milia are dome-shaped, firm cysts, typically 1-2 mm in size. Their distinct shape and lack of inflammation make them different from acne or whiteheads, which can appear swollen or red.
- Small white bumps: Milia, also known as milk spots, appear on your skin as small white bumps. Hard to touch, they’re 1-2 mm in size.
- Bumps on different areas of skin: Milia can appear anywhere but they’re most common on your face, especially around the eyes, nose, and cheeks.
- Milia don’t cause redness or pain: Unlike acne, milia don’t cause redness or pain, they’re not itchy or inflamed either. They are like tiny pearls under your skin and you may see them in clusters or as single bumps.
- Stubborn white spots on various body areas: For adults, milia can be more stubborn. They may stay for months or even years and are most prominent on your forehead, around your eyes, or on your chest.
It’s easy to mistake milia for other skin issues but they’re not whiteheads, pimples, or Epstein pearls though. Unlike these skin issues, milia don’t have an opening on the skin’s surface and you can’t pop them like a spot.
Think you have milia? Don’t fret, HAACH is here to help you fight off milia. Contact us to set an appointment today.
How Do I Know If I Need To See a Dermatologist?
Milia or these little white bumps can be a bother, especially to those who are very conscious of their appearance. If they persist for more than a few months or get worse and you don’t like how milia looks on your skin, talk to your doctor about treatment options.
Some signs will tell you whether it’s time to do something and find treatments that will help get rid of milia for good. One is if the bumps spread around more areas of your body other than the ones where they usually appear or if they get bigger over time. If your baby has recurring milia outbreaks, or if milia don’t go away, you may need to see a dermatologist. Milia can also be irritating or itchy for some and if this progresses to skin inflammation, then it’s time to seek help.
It’s also worth seeing a dermatologist if various home remedies like gentle exfoliation haven’t worked after a month. They can help assess whether the bumps are indeed milia or something else. Milia can also be a sign of an underlying skin condition, so if many bumps appear suddenly on different parts of your body, don’t think twice about getting them checked.
Remember, there’s no shame in seeking help for milia. If they start to affect your daily life and confidence, don’t think twice about seeking the help of a dermatologist. At HAACH, we offer professional and holistic treatments that effectively get rid of and prevent milia from coming back. Schedule an appointment today and start your journey to a more radiant and healthier skin.
Milia Causes
- Long-term steroid use: Long-term use of steroids can interfere with the natural exfoliation process of the skin, which can cause dead skin cells to get trapped and form milia.
- Skin damage: Milia can also show up after skin damage from something like a rash, an injury, or sun exposure.
- Your genes: Genetics is also a factor that can make you more susceptible to milia. So if your family members have milia, there’s a huge chance you’ll get them too.
- Some autoimmune conditions: While not directly, some autoimmune conditions that cause skin inflammation and damage can contribute to the development of milia.
- Skin condition: In other cases, it can also be caused by blistering due to a skin condition, such as epidermolysis bullosa (EB), cicatricial pemphigoid, or porphyria cutanea tarda (PCT).
- Steroid Creams: Long-term use of steroid creams can thin the skin and stop it from shedding naturally, leading to milia. Check with your doctor for safer options.
- Excessive Use of Skincare Products: Using too many heavy products on your skin can clog the pores, increasing the risk of milia. Keep it simple with lightweight, hydrating products.
- Hormonal Changes: Hormonal fluctuations (e.g., pregnancy, menopause) can affect skin and can trigger milia in some people.
You might be at higher risk if you:
- Don’t clean your skin well: Improper skin care can lead to a buildup of dead skin cells and oils, which also contribute to milia formation.
- Use makeup that blocks your pores: When not thoroughly removed, it can block pores and trap keratin and oils within the pores.
- Don’t sleep enough: Impaired skin regeneration due to lack of sleep can hinder the skin’s natural healing process, which causes dead skin cell buildup. Not getting enough sleep also increases stress levels, which can elevate stress hormones worsen existing skin conditions and affect overall skin health.
- Have skin issues like dandruff or rosacea: Dandruff can cause flaky skin and if not managed properly, can clog the pores, increasing the risk of milia. Rosacea also contributes to milia formation as it inflames the skin and disrupts the normal function of the skin barrier.
Milia can affect anyone, no matter their age, race, or sex. Babies often get them because their skin is still learning to shed dead cells.
Some health issues can lead to secondary milia:
- Burns
- Blisters from things like poison ivy
- Skin conditions that cause blisters
- Skin treatments like laser resurfacing
- Long-term sun damage
Milia Causes
Hyperpigmentation comes in many forms, each with its own characteristics and causes. These different types can occur on different parts of the body and can be caused by sun exposure, hormones or skin injuries.
Hyperpigmentation occurs when elevated hormone levels in your body trigger an increase in melanin production.
Primary Milia
Primary milia appears without any apparent reason. You may see these tiny white bumps on your face, especially around the eyes and cheeks. They’re made of keratin, a protein found in skin cells.
These cysts can affect anyone, especially if you have oily skin, then you may be more susceptible to getting primary milia. While harmless, milia can be a bit of a nuisance if you’re concerned about your appearance.
Primary milia usually will clear up on their own within a few weeks or months but. But some may stay longer. Don’t try to pop them yourself as this can cause scarring or infection.
The causes and types of primary milia include:
Neonatal Milia
If you’re a new parent, you may see tiny white bumps on your baby’s nose, chin, or cheeks. These are neonatal milia, which affects about half of all newborns.
These harmless bumps appear because your baby’s skin is still learning to shed dead cells. They’re often mistaken for baby acne but they’re different. Neonatal milia are filled with keratin, not oil or bacteria.
You don’t need to do anything special for your baby’s milia because they’ll usually clear up on their own within a few weeks. Just keep your baby’s face clean with warm water and avoid harsh products to prevent milia from worsening.
Multiple Eruptive Milia
Sometimes you may see many milia appear at once. This is called multiple eruptive milia, which, while uncommon, can happen to both adults and children. These breakouts appear on the face, upper arms, and upper trunk. You may see dozens or even hundreds of tiny white bumps on these areas of your body and while they can be scary, they are not harmful. Multiple eruptive milia can be related to genetic conditions or skin damage. If you see this happening, it’s a good idea to see a doctor. They can check if there’s an underlying cause that needs attention.
Juvenile Milia
Juvenile milia are similar to neonatal milia but appear in older children. You may see these small white bumps on your child’s face, especially around the eyes and cheeks. These cysts are harmless and are not a sign of poor hygiene or any health issues either. Some children are just more prone to getting them than others. Juvenile milia will clear up on their own as your child grows.
Rare genetic disorders that affect the skin can also lead to juvenile milia. These include: Nevoid basal cell carcinoma syndrome (NBCCS) which can lead to basal cell carcinoma (BCC) or a type of skin cancer that begins in the basal cells (microscopic cells in the basal cell layer of the epidermis or the outermost layer of skin). Pachyonychia congenita, is a condition that may cause thick or abnormally shaped nails. Gardner’s syndrome is a rare genetic disorder that may lead to colon cancer over time. Lastly, Bazex-Dupré-Christol syndrome which affects hair growth and the ability to sweat.
Milia En Plaque
Milia en plaque is a rare type where you see many milia grouped together on a raised, red patch of skin. It’s more common in middle-aged women but can affect anyone. You may see these patches behind your ears, on your eyelids, or on your cheeks or jaw. This type of milia can be a few cm wide and feel slightly rough to the touch. There’s a possibility that milia en plaque is related to other skin conditions.
So if you see something like this on your body, it’s best to see a dermatologist. They can check for any underlying issues and advice on management.
Congenital Milia
Congenital milia, like neonatal milia, can affect both babies and kids. Unlike neonatal milia which goes away in weeks, milia congenita may persist longer and need gentle care to avoid irritation.
Secondary Milia
Secondary milia forms after skin damage. They’re also called traumatic milia because of how they form, which is usually from skin injury, burn or certain skin treatments.
These cysts look like primary milia but havehas a different cause. You may see them appear after using heavy skin creams or after a laser treatment. They’re your skin’s way of healing and protecting itself.
Secondary milia can appear anywhere on your body where the skin has been damaged. They’re usually temporary and will clear up as the skin heals. Be patient and gentle with your skin during this time.
Traumatic Milia
Where there has been skin damage, these cysts develop. Rashes and serious burns are two examples. Irritation may cause the cysts to turn white in the middle and red around the margins.
Milia Associated With Porphyria
Rare genetic conditions like Porphyria Cutanea Tarda can cause milia. If you have multiple or recurring cysts, especially in sun-exposed areas, see a dermatologist.
Milia Associated with Drugs Or Products
Some medications or skin care products can cause milia to appear. You may even see these after using steroid creams or heavy moisturisers, even. Even some sunscreens can cause milia in some people. These milia look like other types but are directly related to what you’re putting on your skin. They often appear in the area where you’ve been applying the product.
If you have milia-prone skin, avoid the following ingredients:
- liquid paraffin
- liquid petroleum
- paraffin oil
- paraffinum liquidum
- petrolatum liquid
- petroleum oil
- Lanolin
If you think a product is causing milia, try stopping its use for a while and see if the bumps clear up. Always patch-test new products before using them on your face.
Milia Treatments Offered By HAACH
HAACH offers several effective treatments for milia. These target the small, white bumps while promoting overall skin health and radiance.
The Blue Sapphire Diamond Glow Facial doesn’t only help keep your skin glowing but also gets rid of milia. This treatment exfoliates and nourishes your skin, leaving you with smoother and more glowing skin with fewer imperfections. Using a diamond-tipped exfoliation, gets rid of dead skin cells that can cause milia. The anti-inflammatory properties of the blue sapphire can help calm your skin after exfoliation. We finish this luxurious treatment with a nourishing mask that adds a healthy amount of moisture to your skin, giving you plumpy skin. If you want a treatment that addresses multiple skin concerns at once, then Blue Sapphire Diamond Glow Facial is for you.
Milia Miracle is a treatment that targets those stubborn white bumps by gently extracting trapped keratin that accumulated on your skin without harming it. Our team utilises sterile tools that lessen the risk of scarring or irritation compared to at-home attempts. This is a great treatment if your milia persists and won’t go away with regular skincare. Why choose Milia Miracle? It’s because in just one session, you’ll achieve a smoother complexion. It can also be combined with other treatments, which makes it even more effective in keeping your skin milia-free. We recommend you pair Milia Miracle with a gentle chemical peel to get optimal results and prevent future formation of these white bumps.
The Hydrogen Peel is a deep cleansing for your skin that is most recommended for those with oily skin or clogged pores. We use hydrogen that penetrates deep into your skin and clears out impurities that may cause milia. It breaks down the bonds between dead skin cells and oil in your pores, resulting in a clearer and even more toned skin after treatment. With its gentle and mild properties, Hydrogen Peel is a great choice for those with sensitive skin types.
Have milia in hard to reach areas like you back our shoulders? Then Diamond Back Peel is the treatment that can help get rid of these. This is originally designed for the back as its name says but this is also effective in targeting milia on the face and preventing them from coming back. This treatment is great for removing dead skin cells that may cause milia through diamond-tipped tools that precisely exfoliate tricky areas. Regular use of this treatment is recommended to keep your skin clear of debris and prevent future milia. Diamond Back Peel is also an option to explore if you have oily skin and sweat excessively.
Microdermabrasion (MDA) is a minimally invasive cosmetic technique used to treat milia and other skin issues by exfoliating the epidermis. This treatment involves a series of acid peels or microdermabrasion procedures at the dermatologist’s office. A handheld vacuum machine that gently removes the outermost layer of skin is used throughout the process. MDA has few adverse effects and is generally regarded as safe.
Other Milia Treatments on the Market
Manual extraction involves a dermatologist using sterile tools to remove milia by opening the cyst and removing the keratin. This is the safest way to remove milia and is best for stubborn or multiple milia.
You might try cryotherapy, where liquid nitrogen freezes the milia. This is a common removal method where your doctor gently applies the nitrogen to the areas where milia appears, this causes milia to fall off and leave your skin bump-free. This procedure is quick, minimally invasive, and typically results in bump-free skin within a few days
Milia en plaque may improve with minocycline (a tetracycline antibiotic). This oral antibiotic will likely be prescribed by your doctor for at least 3 months and typically takes 6 to 8 weeks to start working or clearing milia on your skin.
This is also known as a tissues-saving technique that uses a sterile needle to remove the ‘roof’ of your cyst and pick out its content. Your dermatologist will then carefully open the top of each milium (the singular form of milia) and remove the keratin that has accumulated inside.
Creams that contain vitamin A are great in exfoliating your skin. There are a few over-the-counter gel options, including adapalene gel. Your doctor may also prescribe tretinoin cream or minocycline. Apply them nightly to encourage cell turnover and prevent milia formation. Note that these creams may cause dryness and redness at first as your skin adjusts to it. Don’t forget to do a patch test to find out whether your skin is allergic to some of its properties.
Chemical peels reveal new and healthier skin after peeling off the top layer of the skin. Peels can range from mild to strong ones but you may need several sessions to see the results.
This treatment uses a small laser that targets the milia to remove them. It may be a bit costly but it’s precise and you might need multiple treatments depending on how stubborn the milia on your skin is.
With Diathermy, extreme heat is used to destroy the cysts. While it may be a quick solution to get rid of milia, it may cause slight scarring. Don’t worry, the doctor will numb the area first to lessen the heat you may feel on your skin throughout the treatment.
This technique involves surgically scraping and cauterising the cysts. It’s most effective for clustered or larger milia and it may leave tiny scars.
AHAs, such as glycolic acid and lactic acid, are popular ingredients in exfoliants that help treat milia by promoting skin renewal and removing dead skin cells. Incorporating AHAs into your skincare routine can reduce the likelihood of keratin build-up under the skin.
Milia Diagnosis
It’s easy to spot milia because of their appearance. They’re small white bumps on your skin that are most prominent on your face. A dermatologist or skin specialist can identify these tiny cysts during a quick physical examination.
Milia has quite distinctive bumps so it’s uncommon to mistake them for another skin condition. However, it can resemble other conditions like syringomas (small, harmless sweat gland tumours, often appearing near eyes) or sebaceous hyperplasia (enlarged oil glands causing yellowish bumps on the skin). A dermatologist can differentiate between these and recommend effective treatment.
In rare cases, if your dermatologist has any doubt, they may suggest a skin biopsy. The process involves:
- Taking a small sample of skin
- Examining it under a microscope
- Confirming the diagnosis
Your doctor will only recommend skin biopsies if they need to rule out other skin conditions.
For persistent or widespread milia, consult a board-certified dermatologist. Their expertise ensures accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment options tailored to your needs. Our dermatologists at HAACH will give you a clear diagnosis and recommend a treatment that’s personalised as much as holistic and budget-friendly. While milia are harmless, skin changes of any kind still need to be checked to avoid getting more harmful skin conditions. Book an appointment with HAACH today and let’s make a move towards a healthier skin!
Milia Treatment Risks
- Skin irritation: One of the most common risks of milia treatments is leaving your skin irritated. This makes your skin itchy and slightly swollen or become red after treatment.
- Temporary discolouration: Discolouration or pigmentation may occur on the treated area, making them darker or lighter than your natural complexion. This discoloration may last for days or weeks for those with darker skin tone.
- Dryness or flaking: The treatment affects the outer layer of your skin, which makes it feel tight and even peel as a part of the whole process while your skin heals. This can be managed by keeping your face properly moisturised.
- Mild bruising: Some treatments may cause small bruises, especially if you have sensitive skin. This typically fades on its own within a week.
- Infection: There’s a small risk of bacterial infection if you don’t maintain proper hygiene. This may cause inflammation and redness on the treated area but this can be prevented by avoiding touching the area and keeping it clean.
- Uneven skin texture: Some procedures can leave your skin with a bumpy or uneven feel for a while. With proper after care and the use of gentle products, this will resolve after a few days as well.
It’s important to follow aftercare instructions carefully to minimise these risks. If you have sensitive skin, you might be more prone to irritation. Always patch test home treatments first.
Professional treatments like extraction or laser therapy can be more effective but may have additional risks:
- Pain or discomfort during the procedure: During treatments, some individuals may experience different levels of pain, depending on their level of pain tolerance and also the type of treatment used. While anaesthesia may be applied to lessen the pain, it may still cause discomfort.
- Slight bleeding or scabbing at the treatment site: Extractions during treatment can cause slight bleeding or scrubbing but this is not something to be worried about as it heals days or a week as the skin recovers from the treatment.
Most side effects are mild and short-lived, so there’s no need to worry too much. If you’re concerned about treatment risks, consult a dermatologist for personalised advice.
There’s no risk-free treatment and here at HAACH, we are very transparent on all the possible risks that our treatments may involve. By using high-grade equipment, our team reduces the possibility of scarring and any discomfort due to treatment. Our products are crafted to bring holistic and natural results to your skin and bring out its best condition. Checked off some of the risks we mentioned above? Book an appointment with HAACH today.
Milia Complications
- Skin damage: If you try to remove milia at home, it’s possible that you might accidentally damage your skin, which can lead to scarring, infection, and discolouration.
- Persistent appearance: Without proper treatment, milia can last for months or even years. The bump’s persistent appearance can leave you frustrated and makes applying makeup evenly more difficult as they may also be hard to conceal when untreated. Worrying about their visibility and whether they can lead to a more serious skin condition is also inevitable.
- Rare systemic issues: Milia can also be linked to a more serious condition. In rare cases, milia can be a sign of genetic disorders or autoimmune conditions. They may also be caused by certain medications with properties that trigger the appearance of milia.
At HAACH, we assure you that we follow strict hygiene protocols by sterilising our tools and equipment and maintaining a clean and sanitised environment. Every treatment is tailored specially for every patient’s unique needs and condition. HAACH is also home to professionals that ensure your condition is meticulously assessed and your medical history is checked first before recommending any treatment to avoid any allergic reactions. Contact HAACH today and book your appointment.
Milia Treatment Complications
- Scarring: If the treatment used is aggressive, like chemical peels or improper extraction, it’s typical for the skin to have small scars.
- Skin discolouration: You might notice darker or lighter patches where milia were removed, which can last for months or even years in some cases.
- Infection: Infections may happen if the tools or equipment used are not properly sterilised and the place where the treatment was performed is unsanitary. If the aftercare is not followed, it can also develop an infection.
- Allergic reactions: Some people may have allergic responses to creams or chemical peel ingredients used for milia removal. This may cause redness or inflammation on the treatment site that may last for weeks or longer if not immediately treated.
- Skin sensitivity: Your skin might become more sensitive to sunlight or skincare products after certain treatments. Since some treatments peel the outer layer of the skin, it may be more sensitive to sunburns and other allergies, so make sure you do patch tests and stay away from extreme heat as your skin heals post-treatment.
Most of these complications are rare when treatments are done by skilled professionals. Always discuss potential risks with your doctor or dermatologist before starting any milia treatment. Contact us at HAACH and we’ll be happy to discuss the possible treatment complications with you and give advice on how to manage them in case they occur.
Cost Of Treating Milia In Singapore
Milia removal in Singapore ranges from SGD 50 – SGD 750. Price depends on various factors, such as the number of milia seeds and treatment method.
There are clinics that offer promotional packages that make each treatment more budget-friendly. For instance, a trial session can be availed for SGD 100, with follow up sessions at SGD 150 per month. These can be a good deal if you need ongoing treatment.
Be wary of very low prices from non-medical providers. While they may seem cheap, it’s safer to choose a dermatologist or aesthetic doctor for milia removal.
Factors that affect the price:
- Number of milia seeds
- Treatment type
- Clinic location
- Doctor’s experience
Don’t let costs hinder you from getting the best treatments for removing milia. Contact HAACH to book a consultation today and we’ll be happy to discuss our wide array of treatment plans for you to explore.
Are There Subsidies For Treating Milia In Singapore?
Unfortunately no, there are no government subsidies for milia treatment in Singapore. You’ll have to pay out of pocket for most milia removal treatments at private clinics.
But the good news is many aesthetic clinics offer instalment plans to help fit your budget to their services. For instance, HAACH lets you split the cost into 3 interest free payments. This makes it easier to budget for the treatment.
Check if your personal insurance covers any cosmetic treatments. Although unlikely, some plans may cover partial medical aesthetic procedures.
Why Choose HAACH For Milia Treatment?
- Glowing ratings: Don’t just take our word for it – our happy clients say it all! We have a 4.5-star average Google rating from 465 reviews across our 4 Singapore outlets. This rating says a lot on how we handle our patients and carry on every treatment. See it for yourself!
- Award-Winning Excellence: HAACH has won multiple awards for its outstanding services. We are awarded the Enterprise 50 Award, which HAACH has received for 3 consecutive years since 2020. We also won Elle’s It List 2018 and has also been recognized by Harper’s Bazaar Spa Award 2019. With all these awards, we are even more inspired to continue giving you nothing but exceptional care and excellence.
- Highly skilled professionals: Our experienced beauty therapists combine Western techniques like microdermabrasion with Eastern methods like Gua Sha. This unique approach ensures your milia treatment is tailored to your skin type.
- Personalised treatment options: We’re very dedicated to ensuring our patients get the best treatment plans for their unique conditions. Our treatments are tailored to address specific concerns. We only utilise gentle and high-grade products as well as advanced technology to match your desired results.
Ready to get rid of milia and have flawless skin? Book your appointment with HAACH now. Our team can’t wait to help you achieve the smooth, clear skin you’ve always wanted.
Preventing Milia
- Apply sunscreen: Sun damage can make your skin leathery and trap dead cells – the perfect recipe for milia to form. Apply broad-spectrum SPF daily Use a broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher every day, even when you’re indoors near windows. This keeps your skin supple and allows it to shed naturally.
- Moisturise wisely: Choose a light, non-greasy moisturiser. It keeps your skin hydrated and flexible so dead cells can fall off more easily.
- Avoid heavy creams, oils, and products with occlusive ingredients: Thick creams and ointments can clog pores and hinder natural exfoliation. Additionally, avoid products that contain petroleum jelly, lanolin, or mineral oil, as these can block pores and contribute to milia formation as well. Opt for lighter, non-comedogenic products instead.
- Keep it clean: Wash your face twice daily to remove dirt, sweat, and makeup. This prevents pore blockages and allows your skin to shed dead cells effectively.
- Exfoliate gently: Use a mild exfoliant once or twice a week. This removes dead skin cells without irritating your skin. Don’t overdo it, harsh scrubbing can worsen milia.
- Mind your meds: If you’re using steroid creams, follow your doctor’s instructions carefully. Long term steroid use can cause milia.
- Review your skincare: Check your products for comedogenic ingredients (a substance that clogs the pores). Swap out any that might be clogging your pores. Look for ‘non-comedogenic’ on labels when choosing new products.
Milia Before and After
Consult our friendly team to view our patients’ before-and-after testimonials.
Book Appointment
FAQs
What is the fastest way to cure milia?
There’s no instant cure for milia. Gentle exfoliation, retinoids, or professional extraction by a dermatologist can help. Be patient, as it may take weeks to see results.
Can milia get infected?
Yes, it’s possible for milia to get infected if they get poked, scratched, or popped.
Why might a person suddenly get milia?
The cause of sudden milia may not be clear. Primary milia can develop spontaneously. Alternatively, a person may develop milia after a trauma to the skin or as a result of certain medications or other skin conditions.
What is the difference between milia and whiteheads?
Milia are small, white bumps caused by trapped keratin, while whiteheads are clogged pores filled with oil and dead skin cells.
What happens if a person does not pop a milium?
Not popping milia can help prevent the risk of scarring and infection. Milia can sometimes resolve without treatment. However, there are treatment options for milia that do not go away.
How do you get rid of milia fast naturally?
Home remedies for removing milia include exfoliating, steaming the skin, and using topical retinoids.
Can you get militia in your private area?
Yes, it’s possible for milia to appear on the groyne and genital area.
How common are milia?
Milia are quite common. They often appear in newborns but can affect people of all ages. Many adults develop milia at some point in their life, especially around the eyes or cheeks.
Are milia contagious?
No, milia are not contagious. You can’t spread them to other parts of your body or to other people. They’re simply small, harmless cysts that form under the skin.
How do milia affect my body?
Milia don’t typically cause any physical symptoms. They’re harmless and painless. Some people may feel self-conscious about their appearance, but they don’t affect your overall health.
Is milia caused by fat?
No, milia aren’t caused by fat. They form when keratin, a protein in your skin, gets trapped beneath the surface. This can happen due to various factors, not related to body fat.
What is the best product to remove milia?
There’s no single ‘best’ product for milia. Gentle exfoliants, retinoids, or chemical peels may help. Always consult a dermatologist before trying new treatments, especially for milia near your eyes.
How do you get rid of milia on your face?
To remove facial milia:
- Gently exfoliate
- Use retinoid creams
- Try chemical peels
- Keep skin clean and moisturised
- Consider professional extraction by a dermatologist
How to remove milia at home?
- Cleanse your face twice daily
- Use a gentle exfoliant
- Apply retinoid creams (if advised by a doctor)
- Keep skin moisturised
- Avoid heavy, oily products
Don’t try to pop or extract milia yourself as this may cause bruising and even scarring on your skin.
How long do milia last?
Milia can last from a few weeks to several months. In babies, they often clear up within a few weeks. In adults, they may persist longer but usually resolve on their own eventually.
Can I pop milia?
No, you shouldn’t try to pop milia. Unlike spots, they’re not filled with pus and have no opening on the skin’s surface. Attempting to pop them can lead to scarring or infection.
What triggers milia?
Milia can be triggered by:
- Sun damage
- Heavy, oily skincare products
- Skin injuries or burns
- Certain skin conditions
- Genetic factors
Will milia go away on its own?
Yes, milia often go away on their own, especially in infants. In adults, they may take longer to disappear naturally. Patience is key, but treatments can help speed up the process.
How are milia removed?
A dermatologist can remove milia through:
- Deroofing (making a tiny incision)
- Extraction
- Cryotherapy
- Chemical peels
- Laser treatments
These procedures are quick and usually leave no scarring.
What foods cause milia?
No specific foods directly cause milia. However, a balanced diet rich in vitamins A and C may help maintain healthy skin. Stay hydrated and limit sugary, processed foods for overall skin health.
Is milia caused by poor hygiene?
No, milia isn’t caused by poor hygiene. It’s a natural occurrence when keratin gets trapped under the skin. Good skincare habits may help prevent some milia, but cleanliness alone won’t stop them forming.
Will my milia come back?
Milia can recur, even after treatment. Maintaining a good skincare routine and avoiding heavy, oily products can help reduce the chances of new milia forming.
Is neonatal milia the same as baby acne?
No, neonatal milia and baby acne are different. Milia are tiny white bumps, while baby acne appears as small red spots. Milia usually clear up faster and don’t require treatment.
Medical References
Berk, David R., and Susan J. Bayliss. “Milia: A Review and Classification.” Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology, vol. 59, no. 6, Sept. 2008, pp. 1050–63, doi:10.1016/j.jaad.2008.07.034.
English 
Chinese