Milia Extraction
What Are Milia?
Milia are small, white bumps that can appear on your face, often around the eyes and cheeks. While harmless, they can be a cosmetic concern. They come in two types.
Sebaceous Milia
Formed by a buildup of sebum, an oily substance produced by the skin.
Primary Milia
Develop during fetal development and usually appear on the cheeks and forehead of newborns. They typically disappear on their own within a few weeks.
Milia Removal Options
Milia extraction is the most effective way to remove these bumps. However, it's important to avoid at-home extraction attempts, which can lead to scarring or infection. Here are some safe options.
Professional Extraction
A tiny nick and gentle extraction for each one. Quickest and most effective.
Light Laser or Cautery
Another way to remove them in the office.
Topical Treatments
Tretinoin can reduce new milia, but usually won't clear existing ones.
Milia are closed pores, so they cannot simply be squeezed out; each one needs a tiny nick before it is extracted. Expect some redness for a couple of days up to a week, and possibly minor bruising. Treated milia are gone, though new ones can form elsewhere on the face, and tretinoin can help keep new ones to a minimum over the years.
Important Considerations
- Never attempt at-home extraction: milia extraction requires specialized tools and techniques to minimize the risk of infection and scarring. Leave it to the professionals.
- Maintain a healthy skincare routine: a consistent skincare routine with gentle cleansing and proper moisturization can help prevent future milia development.
