Can You Remove Milia at Home?
While it may be tempting to squeeze or pick at milia, doing so is generally not recommended.
Because milia sit beneath the skin’s surface, forcing them out with your fingers or a needle can cause:
- Skin damage
- Infection
- Bleeding
- Scarring
- Dark spots after healing
Instead, focus on treatments that encourage natural skin renewal.
Home Treatments That May Help
1. Gentle Exfoliation
Exfoliating one or two times per week helps remove dead skin cells and supports healthy skin turnover.
Choose gentle chemical exfoliants rather than harsh scrubs, particularly around the eyes.
2. Retinoids
Topical retinoids increase skin cell turnover and may help prevent new milia from forming. They should be used according to package directions or a healthcare professional’s advice, as they can cause irritation in some people.
3. Salicylic Acid
Salicylic acid can help exfoliate the skin and may reduce clogged pores. While it may not remove existing milia directly, it can support smoother skin and help prevent similar bumps in some individuals.
4. Glycolic Acid
Products containing glycolic acid gently exfoliate the outer layer of the skin and encourage cell renewal.
5. Sunscreen
Daily use of a broad-spectrum sunscreen helps protect the skin from UV damage, which may contribute to the development of some cases of milia.
Professional Treatments
If milia persist or are bothersome, a dermatologist can remove them safely.
Manual Extraction
After cleaning the skin, a dermatologist uses a sterile needle or blade to create a tiny opening and carefully extract the keratin.
This procedure is quick and generally leaves minimal marks when performed by a trained professional.
Chemical Peels
Chemical peels promote exfoliation and may reduce recurrent milia in some people.
Laser Therapy
Certain lasers can treat stubborn or widespread milia, particularly when other methods have not been effective.
Cryotherapy
In selected cases, freezing techniques may be used, although this is less common for routine milia.
How Long Do Milia Last?
The duration varies depending on the type.
- Newborn milia often disappear within a few weeks.
- Adult milia may last for months or even years if untreated.
- Professionally removed milia usually do not return in the exact same spot, although new ones can develop elsewhere.
Can You Prevent Milia?
While prevention is not always possible, several habits may reduce your risk.
Cleanse Gently
Wash your face twice daily using a gentle cleanser suitable for your skin type.
Exfoliate Regularly
Avoid over-exfoliating, but use appropriate exfoliating products consistently if recommended for your skin.
Avoid Heavy Products
If you’re prone to milia, choose lightweight, non-comedogenic moisturizers and sunscreens whenever possible.
Remove Makeup Before Bed
Leaving makeup on overnight may contribute to clogged skin in some people.
Protect Your Skin from the Sun
Daily sunscreen use supports overall skin health and helps reduce sun-related damage.
