Although milia are small, they can be immensely frustrating. These tiny, white bumps look like minor but long-lasting pimples that never reach the surface. What causes these minuscule bumps? Are they a type of acne? How long will it take for them to disappear? Although milia may resolve on their own, the process can take a very long time. So if you want to learn how to get rid of milia and prevent them from recurring, use the information and tips below to discover why milia appear and how you can safely remove them.
How to Get Rid of Milia
Why do milia form?
Milia are tiny, white, deep-seeded bumps that form when the skin struggles to naturally exfoliate. They are formed of cells, which become trapped in tiny pockets below the surface of the skin.
Milia form for a variety of reasons, including overuse of heavy skin care products, hair products, and makeup. Cumulative sun exposure can harden the skin and cause milia, and certain skin diseases like Porphyria Cutanea Tarda (PCT), which also causes blistering, can cause milia. Many babies develop milia, but the bumps typically go away as the skin matures and exfoliates. Finally, sometimes milia form due to genetics.
How can you remove milia?
Although similar to pimples in appearance, milia cannot be popped; they must be freed or excised.
The surface of the milia may wear away on its own, exposing the trapped cells and freeing the milia. If it doesn’t (or if this process is taking too long), focus on gentle exfoliation. Microdermabrasion, chemical peels, and the Clarisonic Skincare Brush (an oscillating brush system that deeply cleanses the skin) are all effective ways to exfoliate the skin. Exfoliate regularly, but don’t go overboard in an attempt to rub off the top layer of skin above the milia.
If these techniques don’t work, contact an aesthetician. This skin care specialist can quickly and easily remove the milia using a sterile needle and a comedone extractor. Attempting this removal process on your own is not recommended due to the possibility of infection or scarring. It is especially dangerous if the milia are located near your eyes. An ellman machine is also very beneficial in melting and removing the milia.
How can you prevent milia?
To prevent milia from forming in the future, exfoliate your skin regularly but gently. Epionce lytic treatment is a wonderful product to use at home to diminish the development of milia. In addition, choose oil-free and pure mineral skin care products and makeup like jane iredale. Finally, limit your sun exposure and wear oil-free sunscreen any time you are in the sun.
If you’re wondering how to get rid of milia and exfoliation has not worked (or you wish to expedite the process), contact DermaHealth Laser & Skin Care Clinic in Springfield, Missouri. Our experienced aestheticians can easily and quickly remove milia. To get started, simply give us a call at 417-447-7777 or schedule a free consultation online. We look forward to hearing from you!
