“What Causes Milia and How to Get Rid of It?”

Ever noticed tiny white or yellowish bumps on your skin—especially under your eyes or on your cheeks—that look like whiteheads but don’t pop?

Chances are, you’re dealing with **milia**.

They’re harmless, but they can be annoying. Let’s break down what they are, why they form, and what you can do about them.

 **What Are Milia?**

Milia (singular: milium) are **tiny cysts filled with keratin**—a type of protein naturally found in the skin. They form when dead skin cells get trapped under the skin’s surface instead of being shed naturally.

They are **not pimples**, not acne, and not caused by bacteria or oil. That’s why trying to pop them won’t work (and might actually scar your skin).

 **What Causes Milia?**

Milia can show up in people of **any age**, including newborns. In adults, common triggers include:

- **Heavy skincare products** that clog the skin

- **Sun damage**, which thickens the skin and prevents normal shedding

- **Poor exfoliation**, leading to buildup of dead skin cells

- **Skin trauma**, such as burns, rashes, or laser treatments

- **Genetics**, in some cases

**Where Do Milia Appear?**

Milia mostly pop up on:

- Under-eye area

- Cheeks

- Nose

- Forehead

- Eyelids

- Sometimes even on the chest or genital area

They’re usually firm, painless, and don’t cause redness or swelling.

**How to Get Rid of Milia (Safely)**

Here’s what you *can* do:

**1. Don’t Pick or Pop**

Trying to poke or squeeze milia only causes irritation, scarring, or even infection. Leave them alone.

 **2. Use Gentle Exfoliants**

Look for products with **AHAs (like glycolic acid)** or **BHAs (like salicylic acid)**. They help shed dead skin cells and promote smoother skin over time.

 **3. Try Retinoids (If Suitable)**

Topical **retinoids** can help speed up skin cell turnover, helping milia resolve naturally. But avoid them under the eyes unless your dermatologist recommends it.

**4. Go Light on Eye Creams**

Heavy, oily creams can make milia worse—especially around the eyes. Choose non-comedogenic and lightweight products.

**5. Professional Extraction**

If milia won’t go away or you have a lot of them, visit a dermatologist. A sterile needle or a small tool can be used to extract them safely—**no DIY, please**.

**How to Prevent Milia**

- Always **remove makeup** before bed

- **Exfoliate 1–2 times a week** (gently!)

- Use **non-comedogenic skincare**

- Protect skin from **sun damage**

- Avoid overly heavy creams—especially near the eyes

 **When to See a Dermatologist**

If the bumps are persistent, spreading, or bothering you cosmetically, it’s worth getting them checked. Sometimes what looks like milia might be something else—like sebaceous hyperplasia, xanthelasma, or other skin conditions.

**Final Thoughts:**

Milia are common and totally harmless, but they can be stubborn. With the right skincare habits and, if needed, professional help, your skin can feel smoother and clearer again.

**Still seeing those stubborn bumps?**

At *Dr. Rizwan’s Skin, Cosmetic & Laser Clinic*, we offer safe and effective extraction and guidance on skincare products to prevent future breakouts. Book an appointment today and let’s treat your skin the right way.

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