“Milia” are often called “fat cysts” online, but that’s not accurate. They are actually tiny keratin-filled cysts under the skin—not fat.

🧴 What milia are

Milia are:

• Small, white or yellowish bumps (often on eyelids, cheeks, nose)
• Firm and painless
• Not acne and not infections
• Caused by trapped keratin under the skin

🧠 How to get rid of milia safely

1. Don’t squeeze or pop them

• Milia are too deep and firm to pop like pimples
• Squeezing can cause:
  • Scarring
  • Infection
  • More irritation

2. Gentle exfoliation (helps prevent new ones)

• Use mild chemical exfoliants like:
  • Low-strength glycolic acid
  • Lactic acid
  • Salicylic acid (careful near eyes)

👉 Helps skin shed dead cells naturally

3. Retinoids (most effective at-home option)

• Topical retinoids help skin turnover
• May gradually reduce milia over time
• Must be used carefully around sensitive areas like eyelids

4. Warm compress (supportive, not a cure)

• Helps soften skin and open pores slightly
• May help very small milia resolve naturally

5. Avoid heavy or oily creams on affected areas

• Thick skincare or occlusive products can trap keratin
• Especially around eyelids and cheeks

🏥 Fastest professional removal

If milia don’t go away:

• Dermatologists can remove them using a sterile needle or extraction tool
• Quick, safe, and usually no scarring when done properly

⚠️ Important note

Milia are harmless but:

• They don’t pop easily
• They don’t resolve instantly
• “Overnight removal hacks” are usually false or unsafe