You might have noticed tiny, white or yellowish bumps on your skin—particularly around your eyes, nose, or cheeks. These are not pimples, nor are they whiteheads. These small, dome-shaped cysts are called milia (singular: milium), and while they’re harmless, many people wish to remove them for cosmetic reasons.
🔍 What Are Milia?
Milia are small, keratin-filled cysts that form just under the outer layer of the skin. Unlike pimples, they are not caused by clogged pores due to oil or bacteria, but rather by trapped dead skin cells that harden into tiny white bumps.
There are two main types:
- Primary milia: Common in newborns and adults, appearing without an apparent cause.
- Secondary milia: Develop after skin trauma (burns, blisters, harsh skincare), or due to heavy skin products.
🧬 Why Do Milia Appear?
Some common triggers include:
- Excessive sun damage
- Use of heavy creams or oil-based skincare
- Poor exfoliation or clogged sweat ducts
- Skin trauma like burns or laser treatments
- Genetics or skin conditions like rosacea
🧼 How to Treat and Remove Milia Safely
While milia are not harmful and often resolve on their own, they can linger for weeks or months. Here are the safest and most effective ways to get rid of them:
✅ 1. Gentle Exfoliation
Use a mild exfoliant containing alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs) or beta hydroxy acids (BHAs):
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