Have you ever noticed tiny, white, pearl-like bumps on your skin that just won’t go away no matter how much you exfoliate? Those stubborn little spots are likely milia—small cysts that form when keratin gets trapped beneath the skin’s surface. Unlike acne, milia don’t have an opening, so they can’t simply be squeezed out.
I’ve struggled with milia myself—particularly around my eyes—and no amount of scrubbing made them budge. After years of trial and error (and a few failed DIY extraction attempts—more on that later!), I finally learned what actually works. If you’ve been frustrated by these pesky bumps, you’re not alone. Let’s dive into what causes milia and how you can prevent and treat them for clearer, smoother skin.
What Are Milia?
Milia are small, dome-shaped cysts that typically appear around the eyes, cheeks, nose, and forehead. They’re often confused with whiteheads, but unlike acne, milia are not caused by clogged pores or bacteria. Instead, they form when dead skin cells and keratin (a protein found in skin) become trapped beneath the surface.
There are two main types:
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Primary Milia: Common in both adults and infants, these occur when keratin gets trapped in hair follicles or sweat ducts.
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Secondary Milia: These develop after skin trauma, such as burns, excessive sun exposure, or long-term use of heavy skincare products.
What Causes Milia?
Several factors contribute to milia formation:
1. Heavy Skincare Products
Thick creams, oil-based moisturisers, and pore-clogging ingredients (like lanolin or mineral oil) can block skin cells from shedding properly, leading to trapped keratin. I learned this the hard way when a rich eye cream gave me a cluster of milia within weeks!
2. Lack of Exfoliation
Dead skin cells can build up over time, especially if you’re not exfoliating regularly. However, over-exfoliating can also irritate the skin and trigger milia. I once went overboard with physical scrubs, thinking it would help—big mistake. My skin rebelled with even more tiny bumps.
3. Sun Damage
Prolonged UV exposure thickens the skin, making it harder for dead cells to shed naturally. This can lead to milia, especially around the delicate eye area.
4. Skin Trauma or Procedures
Burns, laser treatments, or aggressive facials can sometimes cause milia as the skin heals.
5. Genetics & Skin Type
Some people are simply more prone to milia due to their skin’s natural tendency to retain keratin.
How to Prevent & Treat Milia
While milia often resolve on their own, they can linger for months. Here’s how to keep them at bay:
✅ Gentle Exfoliation
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Use chemical exfoliants like AHAs (glycolic acid) or BHAs (salicylic acid) to promote cell turnover.
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Salicylic acid (BHA) can help prevent milia by keeping pores clear of dead skin cells—try our Blemish Relief Serum for daily gentle exfoliation. While it won’t dissolve existing milia (those stubborn cysts need stronger treatments!), I’ve noticed fewer new bumps since incorporating it into my routine.
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Avoid harsh scrubs, which can cause micro-tears and worsen milia.
✅ Lightweight, Non-Comedogenic Products
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Opt for oil-free moisturisers and serums labeled non-comedogenic.
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Avoid heavy creams around the eyes if you’re prone to milia.
✅ Retinoids for Prevention
Retinol or prescription retinoids help increase cell turnover, preventing dead skin buildup.
✅ Sun Protection
Wear broad-spectrum SPF 30+ daily to prevent sun-induced skin thickening.
❌ Don’t Pick or Squeeze
Unlike pimples, milia are deep-rooted and won’t pop. Trying to extract them at home can cause scarring or infection.
💡 Professional Removal
If milia persist, a dermatologist can safely extract them using a sterile needle or perform a minor procedure like electrocautery or cryotherapy.
Final Thoughts
Milia might be stubborn, but with the right skincare habits, you can minimise their appearance. Focus on gentle exfoliation, lightweight hydration, and sun protection to keep your skin smooth and bump-free.
#Skincare #Milia #ClearSkin #Dermatology #BeautyTips
