How to prevent milia from forming

What causes milia to form?

Milia are tiny, harmless cysts containing keratin, a protein in skin. They form when dead skin becomes trapped beneath the surface, often around the eyelids and cheeks. Milia are not acne, even though they can resemble whiteheads. Some develop without an obvious injury; others appear as damaged skin heals after burns, blistering rashes or other trauma. Prevention measures mainly address those avoidable triggers, rather than every possible cause.123

What should you do each day?

1. 1Wash your face with warm water and gentle soap.
2. 2Pat your skin dry gently rather than rubbing it.
3. 3Use sunscreen when outdoors and avoid excessive sun exposure.

Gentle cleansing is enough for the washing step; the cleanser does not need to submit a performance review.1

Can creams or medicines contribute?

Heavy creams and ointments can trigger secondary milia. Keep thick facial products to temporary use rather than prolonged use. Steroid creams are another possible contributor: use them only for the duration your prescriber specifies. If bumps appear during prescribed treatment, discuss them with your prescriber rather than extending the course yourself.1

Should you exfoliate or use a retinoid?

Adults can try an exfoliating product as part of home care. Exfoliation is an option for adults, not a membership requirement for having a skincare routine. There is no established milia prevention schedule that makes a particular frequency compulsory.13

Topical retinoids, medicines applied to the skin, may help when existing milia are widespread. That makes them a treatment option to discuss, not a necessary preventive step for everyone. A dermatologist can help distinguish milia from other bumps before you start treatment, particularly when several bumps appear together or keep returning.2

What if you already have milia?

Do not squeeze, scrape or puncture milia at home: this can cause scarring or infection. Scratching or bursting them can also encourage new milia. Professional removal involves opening the cyst with a sterile instrument and removing its contents. That is different from treating the bump like a pimple.14

Existing milia often clear without treatment within a few months, although some persist longer. A prevention routine will not necessarily remove a cyst that has already formed. Milia generally need no treatment unless their appearance bothers you. If removal matters to you, a clinician can discuss extraction or other procedures rather than leaving you to experiment at home.24

Arrange a medical review if the bumps worsen or have not improved after a few months. A clinician can check the diagnosis and discuss treatment if their appearance bothers you.14

Can you prevent milia in a baby?

Newborn milia are linked to immature skin structures, and there is no known prevention. They usually disappear within the first few weeks without treatment or lasting effects. Do not use adult lotions, oils or exfoliating treatments on a baby's milia. Seek advice from a doctor or child health nurse if a coloured rash or crusting develops around the bumps.1345