Milia are small, harmless, white bumps that appear just under the surface of your skin. They are commonly found on the face, often around the eyes and cheeks, but can occur anywhere. These tiny cysts are filled with keratin, a protein produced by your skin. They are frequently mistaken for whiteheads, a type of acne, but are distinct.
What are Milia?
Milia, also known as milk spots, are small, pearly white bumps that result from keratin becoming trapped beneath the skin's surface. They typically appear in clusters and are usually smaller than 1mm in diameter. While they're most common on the face, especially the cheeks, nose, and around the eyes, they can occur on other body parts as well.
- Appearance: Small, white, slightly raised bumps.
- Location: Most common on the face, particularly around the eyes and cheeks, but can appear anywhere.
- Size: Typically less than 1mm.
- Harmlessness: Milia are benign and pose no health risks.
Causes of Milia
The exact cause isn't fully understood, but the formation of milia is linked to the trapping of keratin beneath the skin's surface. This can happen due to various factors, and is not always preventable. They are commonly found in infants, often disappearing on their own within a few weeks. Adults can also develop milia.
Distinguishing Milia from Whiteheads
It's easy to mistake milia for whiteheads, but they're different. Whiteheads are a type of acne caused by clogged pores, while milia are small cysts filled with keratin. Whiteheads often have a visible pore, whereas milia do not.
Treatment Options
While often resolving on their own, there are treatments available for removing milia, although professional intervention is often recommended for effective removal. Examples include extraction by a dermatologist and in some cases, topical treatments. At-home remedies such as steaming, while sometimes suggested, are not always effective.
