Milia are tiny, firm, white or yellowish bumps that often appear around the eyes, cheeks, nose, or forehead. They are sometimes called “milk spots,” but they are not fat cysts—they are small keratin-filled cysts that form when dead skin cells become trapped beneath the skin’s surface.
How to get rid of milia safely
- Don’t squeeze or pop them
- Unlike pimples, milia do not have an opening to release contents. Picking can cause irritation, scarring, or infection.
- Use gentle exfoliation
- Products containing retinoids (such as adapalene or prescription retinoids) or mild chemical exfoliants like salicylic acid or glycolic acid may help prevent new milia and encourage skin turnover.
- Avoid harsh scrubs, especially around the eyes.
- Keep your skincare routine simple
- Use a gentle cleanser and a non-comedogenic moisturizer.
- Heavy creams or oily products around the eyes may contribute to clogged pores in some people.
- Protect your skin from sun damage
- Daily sunscreen helps maintain healthy skin turnover and may reduce the risk of some types of milia.
- Professional removal
- A dermatologist or trained skincare professional can remove milia using sterile techniques such as a small incision and extraction.
- Other options, depending on the case, may include chemical peels, laser treatments, or cryotherapy.
When to see a dermatologist
Consider getting medical advice if:
- The bumps are spreading or changing.
- They appear suddenly in large numbers.
- You are unsure whether they are milia or another skin condition.
- They are bothering you cosmetically and you want safe removal.
Milia often disappear on their own over time, especially in babies, but adult milia may persist and require treatment for removal.
