Unlike a pimple, milia don’t have an opening on the skin’s surface so they can’t be squeezed or popped. Scarring and skin damage can occur if you try, especially around the delicate eye area, so it’s best to leave this to the professionals. In many cases, milia will clear up upon their own after a few weeks or months. However, if the condition continues, we recommend visiting one of our qualified dermal technicians who can assist with extraction.

Milia also are associated with other kinds of skin damage — from an injury, medication or illness. These less common forms are called secondary milia. Milia are tiny bumps that occur under the outer skin layer of the eyelid, around the eyes and nose, and on the chin or cheeks. Adults who find persistent milia bothersome or unsightly often seek treatment to make milia go away. Janeczek M, Hoss E, Ochoa S. Forceps for milia extraction. Cutis. 2022;109(5):E28-E29. doi:10.12788/cutis.0535 Soleymani T, Lanoue J, Rahman Z. A practical approach to chemical peels: A review of fundamentals and step-by-step algorithmic protocol for treatment. J Clin Aesthet Dermatol. 2018;11(8):21-28.

Milia are very small superficial cysts that form just underneath the skin, most commonly around the eyes." —Dr. Sandra Lee Milia are not contagious or harmful in any way, there is no known genetic link with milia and the condition is not thought to be hereditary, but some people may feel self-conscious about them, especially if they are on a visible area of the skin such as the face. At present doctor consultations are not available to book online however just call one of our friendly advisors and they will be happy to help. This vegan and cruelty-free scrub is designed for those with keratosis pilaris — a condition that leads to keratin buildup and results in small, rough bumps on the skin. Keratosis pilaris bumps are not too different from milia, so the double action of this rigorous scrub can help with both.

Paula Begoun's salicylic-acid based toner is ideal for exfoliating without causing irritation. 3. Exfoliate, or use active ingredients like retinol You may already be familiar with retinol as an anti-aging ingredient, but this vitamin A derivative is also excellent in skincare for banishing milia. While it doesn’t exfoliate the skin directly, it still speeds up the process of dead skin cell shedding. Retinol encourages skin cell turnover, which can help with fine lines and texture issues around the eyes. Kurokawa I, Kakuno A, Tsubura A. Milia may originate from the outermost layers of the hair bulge of the outer root sheath: A case report. Oncol Lett. 2016;12(6):5190-5192. doi:10.3892/ol.2016.5335 Your milia removal consultation will be with a doctor who will assess your condition and determine the most appropriate form of treatment. During your consultation they will be able to answer any questions you may have about your milia removal and give you personalised advice. If they decide your skin condition can be treated, they will be able to carry out the procedure in-clinic. All of our clinics are monitored by the Care Quality Commission and the equivalent in Scotland (HIS) and Wales (HIW), for your safety and peace of mind. Three simple steps to start your journeySun damage can be a contributing factor for milia because it makes skin rough and leathery, so it's more difficult for dead cells to rise to the skin's surface and shed normally. According to Dermatology Advisor, there are different types of milia, including neonatal milia, the type that shows up on infants' skin. The most common type in adults is primary milia; there are two other types that are less common, one that occurs in clusters on your skin and another that's caused by trauma to the skin. This article was medically reviewed by Adebola Dele-Michael, MD, FAAD. Dr. Adebola Dele-Michael is a Board Certified Dermatologist and the Owner of Radiant Skin Dermatology and Laser, PLLC in Manhattan, New York. With over 12 years of experience, she specializes in general and cosmetic dermatology, specifically, using lasers and energy devices in treating skin of color.She is an assistant professor of Dermatology at The Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai in Manhattan, NYC. Dr. Dele-Michael holds a BS in Biochemistry from Stony Brook University and an MD from The University of Rochester School of Medicine and Dentistry. She completed her Dermatology Residency at Wayne State University School of Medicine, where she was also chief resident. Costa IMC, Damasceno PS, Costa MC, Gomes KGP. Review in peeling complications. J Cosmet Dermatol. 2017;16(3):319-326. doi:10.1111/jocd.12329 If milia continue to concern you, see a GP, particularly if you notice any redness or swelling. The doctor may recommend a suitable cream.