No, milk does not cause milia.
Milia are small, white bumps that appear on the skin, most commonly on the face. They are often seen in newborn babies and are sometimes mistakenly called "milk spots." However, the name is misleading; milia have nothing to do with milk consumption or allergies.
What are Milia?
Milia are tiny cysts filled with keratin, a protein found in skin, hair, and nails. They occur when dead skin cells become trapped beneath the surface of the skin.
Causes of Milia
- Newborns: In newborns, milia usually occur because their skin is still developing and hasn't fully learned to shed dead skin cells effectively.
- Adults: In adults, milia can be caused by:
- Skin damage from sun exposure
- Blistering injuries
- Certain skin products
- Medical conditions
- Medications
Treatment
Milia in newborns typically resolve on their own within a few weeks or months. In adults, milia may persist longer. Treatment options include:
- Gentle exfoliation: Gently washing the face with a mild cleanser and exfoliating can help to remove dead skin cells and unclog pores.
- Topical retinoids: Retinoids are vitamin A derivatives that can help to increase cell turnover and prevent the buildup of dead skin cells.
- Professional extraction: A dermatologist or esthetician can safely extract milia using a sterile needle.
- Chemical peels: Chemical peels can help to exfoliate the skin and remove dead skin cells.
- Laser ablation: Laser ablation can be used to remove milia by vaporizing the skin cells.
Key Takeaway
Milia are a common skin condition caused by trapped skin cells and have absolutely no connection to milk consumption.
