There are several types of cysts, but the most common are milium cysts. In many cases, these cysts occur in groups. Milia is a medical term for multiple cysts.
Keratin becomes trapped beneath the skin’s surface, causing milia to develop. In skin, hair, and nail cells, keratin is a strong protein.
A person of any ethnicity or age can develop milia. However, new-borns are the most susceptible.
Milia are small, dome-shaped bumps, which are usually white or yellow. As a rule, they aren’t itchy or painful in any way. However, some people may find them uncomfortable. Milia can become inflamed and red when exposed to rough sheets or clothing.
The cysts are commonly found on the cheeks, lips, and around the eyes. There are, however, other parts of the body where they can be found.
The first thing you should know is that you should never try to pop or squeeze a milium.
As opposed to pimples, milia have solid content. They are filled with a mixture of dead skin cells and sebum, as well as pus. It is possible to force fluid out of a pimple by applying pressure to it. (Although you shouldn’t pop pimples either.)
In contrast to a pimple, a milium is a small cyst. Inside the milium, there’s a white lump that’s very hard. Made of keratinized (hardened) dead skin cells that have become trapped just below the surface of your skin.
No matter how hard you try, squeezing milia won’t work.
A grain of sand would be a better description for that bump. Unlike acne blemishes that develop in a pore, milia form under a thin layer of skin, so there is no way for the plug to escape.
Children and adults who have milia are more likely to have had skin damage.
Skin damage can be caused by:
Cryosonic uses the most advanced non-invasive cryosurgical tool called a Cryopen for milia removal. There is no pain associated with this medical procedure. Treatment sessions last for about two minutes. The CryoPen uses a jet of cold air directed at the milia in a matter of seconds with millimetre accuracy.On top of the milia, there will be a white frost. That means it's working because of the freezing temperatures! Most of the time, the frost is gone in a matter of seconds.
No action is required other than to follow the instructions the clinician will give for after milia removal treatment, mainly keep the area clean and don’t put on any make up over the area.
You can help prevent further milia by protecting your skin:
Milia Removal: Causes, Types, and Treatment Options
Milia, also known as “milk spots,” are small, white bumps that often appear on the surface of the skin. These tiny imperfections form due to a keratin plug trapped under the skin, typically near sweat glands. While milia are harmless, they can become a cosmetic concern for many. Here’s everything you need to know about milia formation, types, and professional treatment options to achieve clear skin.
What Causes Milia?
Milia occur when dead skin cells or keratin become trapped beneath a patch of skin. Factors such as sun exposure, incomplete removal of makeup, and improper skincare routines can increase the likelihood of milia formation. Using heavy creams, like mineral oil or thicker moisturizers, can also clog pores and contribute to their development.
Types of Milia
There are five main types of milia, each with distinct characteristics:
Primary Milia – The most common type of milia, affecting all age groups, including newborn babies (referred to as neonatal milia).
Secondary Milia – Form due to skin injury or conditions, such as burns or excessive sun exposure.
Eruptive Milia – Appear suddenly as a cluster of white bumps on larger areas, such as the upper arms or face.
Milia En Plaque – Milia found on inflamed patches of skin, often linked to autoimmune conditions.
Neonatal Milia – Common in newborn babies, usually resolving on their own within a few weeks.
Milia Removal Procedures
For more stubborn or persistent milia spots, professional treatment may be necessary. Below are common treatment options provided by skin clinics to help manage milia safely and effectively.
Chemical Peels – A mild chemical peel with ingredients like glycolic acid is highly effective in exfoliating the skin and clearing surface-level milia.
Retinol Creams – Using a light retinol cream on a regular basis can help prevent new milia from forming by promoting cell turnover and managing oil production.
Laser Ablation – For deeper or resistant milia, laser treatments target the affected area with precision.
Manual Extraction – A tiny incision is made to remove the keratin plug carefully. This method has a quick healing process and is ideal for a smaller number of milia.
Maintaining Healthy Skin
Regular exfoliation, the thorough removal of makeup, and sunscreen protection are essential for maintaining the health of your skin and preventing milia from forming. If milia are a recurring issue, seek professional advice from a skin clinic to explore tailored treatments like mild chemical peels or laser ablation.
Clear, radiant skin is achievable with the right treatment plan and professional care. Whether addressing neonatal milia in newborn babies or persistent secondary milia in adults, there’s a solution suited to the type of milia and the affected area.