Milia Explained: What They Are, What Causes Them, and How to Remove Them

Milia are small, white or yellowish bumps that commonly appear on the skin, often mistaken for whiteheads. Unlike acne, milia do not form from clogged pores but rather from trapped keratin beneath the skin’s surface. They can be stubborn and difficult to remove without professional treatment, making it important to understand their causes and the best ways to treat them effectively.

What Are Milia?

Milia are tiny cysts filled with keratin, a protein found in the skin, hair, and nails. They typically appear in clusters on areas such as the cheeks, under the eyes, forehead, and nose. Although they are harmless, they can be persistent and difficult to remove without proper extraction.

Types of Milia

There are different types of milia, but the most common include:

• Primary Milia – These form when keratin gets trapped under the skin and are commonly seen in newborns and adults.
• Secondary Milia – These develop after skin trauma, burns, or blistering, where the skin heals improperly, trapping keratin.
• Neonatal Milia – A common type found in newborns, often resolving on its own within a few weeks.

What Causes Milia?

Milia develop when dead skin cells do not shed properly and instead get trapped under the skin’s surface. Some common causes include:

• Overuse of Heavy Skincare Products – Thick creams and occlusive ingredients can prevent proper skin cell turnover.
• Sun Damage – Prolonged sun exposure can thicken the skin, making it harder for dead skin cells to shed.
• Skin Trauma – Burns, rashes, or blistering can lead to secondary milia.
• Lack of Exfoliation – When dead skin builds up, it increases the likelihood of keratin becoming trapped.
• Genetics – Some people are more prone to milia due to their skin type or genetic factors.

How to Remove Milia

While some milia may go away on their own, many require professional extraction to ensure they are safely removed without damaging the skin.

Professional Milia Removal

At Fixation Skincare & Laser Clinic, we offer safe and effective milia removal treatments to help clear your skin. Our trained professionals use sterile techniques to extract milia without causing scarring or irritation.

The process involves:

1. Consultation – Assessing your skin to determine the best treatment approach.
2. Sterile Extraction – A tiny incision is made, and the trapped keratin is safely removed.
3. Aftercare Advice – Ensuring your skin heals properly and reducing the risk of new milia forming.

Can You Remove Milia at Home?

It’s not recommended to try removing milia at home. Unlike pimples, they do not have an opening to be squeezed, and attempting to remove them can lead to infection, scarring, and irritation.

How to Prevent Milia from Forming

While milia can occur naturally, a good skincare routine can help reduce the likelihood of them developing.

✔ Exfoliate Regularly – Using gentle exfoliants, such as AHA or BHA products, can help prevent dead skin buildup.
✔ Choose Lightweight Skincare – Avoid thick, heavy creams if you are prone to milia. Opt for non-comedogenicproducts.
✔ Wear SPF Daily – Protecting your skin from sun damage helps prevent the thickening of the skin that can lead to milia.
✔ Avoid Overuse of Occlusive Skincare – Ingredients like petroleum jelly can trap dead skin cells, increasing the risk of milia.
✔ Book Regular Facials – Professional skincare treatments, such as deep cleansing facials and extractions, help keep your skin clear.

Book Your Milia Removal at Fixation Skincare & Laser Clinic

If you’re struggling with stubborn milia, don’t pick or squeeze them—let the professionals handle it safely and effectively. At Fixation Skincare, we offer expert milia extraction services to leave your skin looking smooth and clear.

📍 Book a consultation today and let’s get your skin back to its best.