What is a Milium? Causes & treatments for Milia (Photos)

What is a Milium?

A Milium is a tiny, pearly white keratin-filled cystlike mass or nodule that appears just under the surface of the skin in the area known as the epidermis. Because of their pale, white or yellowish coloring, milia are also called milk spots, oil seeds, cysts and whiteheads, but a milium is not typically associated with acne to the degree whiteheads are.

What Causes Milia to Form?

Milia are commonly seen on newborn infants but can appear in both sexes on people of all ages. A milium is caused by the clogged secretion of a sebaceous gland. Milia are sometimes found on the roof of the mouth but are most seen on the oily areas around the eyes, eyelids, nose and cheeks. In Nashville heavy exposure to sun is often to blame for milia.

• Skin Care Products -- Milia can be cause by using the wrong skin care products. Heavy face creams or thick makeup can sometimes clog the sweat glands and hair follicles. If you are prone to get milia, use noncomedogenic cosmetics (products that do not block pores).
• Sun Damage -- Milia are also associated with sun damage. The yellowish bumps seen on the face after excessive exposure to sunlight as known as colloid milia.
• Topical Medications -- Milia are infrequently found after use of topical medication such as hydroquinone, 5-fluorouracil cream, and corticosteroid creams.
• Other Damage to Skin -- Sometimes other damage to the skin: skin injury, poson ivy, blistering and even spa treatments such as skin resurfacing procedures or dermabrasion can result in milia.

What Can Be Done to Treat Milia?

On babies and children milia frequently disappear within two to four weeks, but in adults, they often have to be removed by a dermatologist or other doctor. Sometimes the application of a prescription retinoid will get rid of milia. It is important not to pick at or squeeze a milium as that may cause further damage. A milium can grow into a cyst. While milia are harmless, if there are numerous milia present, it may be symptomatic of other problems.

Related:

• What is acne? Common causes of acne
• The unblemished truth about adult acne and Rodan and Fields Unblemish
• The Top Five Ways to Prevent Acne

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