No, it is generally not recommended to pick at milia.
Trying to remove milia yourself can lead to several problems. Milia are small, hard, cyst-like bumps trapped beneath the skin's surface, unlike pimples that contain pus. Because of this, they don't "pop" in the same way, and attempting to squeeze or pick them can:
- Cause inflammation and redness: The surrounding skin can become irritated and inflamed from the pressure and manipulation.
- Lead to bruising: Forcing the milia can damage the delicate blood vessels under the skin, resulting in bruising.
- Introduce infection: Picking at the skin breaks the protective barrier, allowing bacteria to enter and potentially cause an infection.
- Result in scarring: Aggressive attempts to remove milia can damage the skin and lead to permanent scarring.
Instead of picking at milia, it is best to consult a dermatologist or trained aesthetician. They have the proper sterile tools and techniques to safely and effectively remove milia without causing damage to the skin. Professional removal methods often include:
- Sterile needle extraction: A small, sterile needle is used to create a tiny opening in the skin, allowing the milia to be gently extracted.
- Chemical peels: Certain chemical peels can help exfoliate the skin and encourage the milia to surface and eventually disappear.
- Laser ablation: A laser can be used to carefully vaporize the milia.
In summary, while the temptation to pick at milia may be strong, resist the urge! Professional removal is the safest and most effective way to get rid of these pesky bumps.
