Here’s a clear guide on how to get rid of milia, those small, stubborn white bumps (often called “fat cysts”) that appear on the skin:
What Are Milia?
- Tiny, hard, white or yellowish bumps on the skin, often around the eyes, cheeks, and nose.
- Caused by trapped keratin under the skin.
- Not harmful or contagious, but can be cosmetically annoying.
1. Gentle Cleansing
- Wash your face twice daily with a mild cleanser.
- Avoid harsh scrubs that can irritate skin.
- Helps remove excess oil and dead skin cells that contribute to milia formation.
2. Exfoliation
- Use gentle chemical exfoliants (like products with salicylic acid, glycolic acid, or lactic acid) 1–2 times a week.
- Helps unclog pores and remove dead skin cells.
- Avoid aggressive physical scrubs which can worsen irritation.
3. Professional Extraction
- Do NOT try to squeeze or pick milia at home — this can cause infection or scarring.
- A dermatologist can remove them safely using:
- A sterile needle or lancet
- Gentle extraction tools
- Laser or minor procedures for persistent clusters
4. Retinoid Creams
- Topical retinoids (like tretinoin) can help speed up skin turnover and prevent milia formation.
- Often prescribed for stubborn cases, especially around eyes or cheeks.
5. Sun Protection
- Apply broad-spectrum sunscreen daily.
- Sun damage can thicken skin and make milia more noticeable.
6. Patience
- Milia often disappear naturally over weeks to months, especially in infants.
- Avoid harsh home remedies or aggressive picking, which can worsen scarring.
⚠️ When to See a Dermatologist
- If milia persist for months, grow, or appear in large clusters
- If you notice redness, swelling, or pain (could indicate infection)
- If you want professional cosmetic removal
If you want, I can also make a visual step-by-step routine for milia removal, showing daily care, exfoliation, and professional treatments in an easy-to-follow chart.
Do you want me to create that?
