From the Research
Milia form when dead skin cells become trapped beneath the skin's surface, creating small, white cysts. These tiny keratin-filled bumps typically develop when skin cells that would normally slough off get trapped in small pockets near the skin's surface. Several factors contribute to milia formation, including sun damage, long-term use of steroid creams, skin injury (such as burns, blisters, or dermabrasion), and certain skin conditions like bullous pemphigoid 1. Milia can also form when heavy, occlusive skincare products clog pores, preventing normal skin cell turnover. Some people are genetically predisposed to developing milia, particularly around the eyes and cheeks, as seen in cases of congenital milia 2. While milia are harmless and often resolve on their own within a few weeks or months, persistent cases can be treated by a dermatologist through extraction, topical retinoids, chemical peels, or microdermabrasion 3. To prevent milia, maintain regular gentle exfoliation, avoid heavy creams in prone areas, use non-comedogenic products, and protect your skin from excessive sun exposure. Key factors to consider in milia formation include:
- Dead skin cells trapped beneath the skin's surface
- Sun damage and skin injury
- Genetic predisposition
- Use of heavy, occlusive skincare products
- Certain skin conditions like bullous pemphigoid Treatment options for persistent milia include:
- Extraction
- Topical retinoids
- Chemical peels
- Microdermabrasion Preventive measures for milia include:
- Regular gentle exfoliation
- Avoiding heavy creams in prone areas
- Using non-comedogenic products
- Protecting the skin from excessive sun exposure