About this topic
Normally, dead skin sheds over time. Sometimes, it gets trapped. Then, it forms tiny beads just under your skin. These may look like very small hard and white bumps on the top layer of skin. These are known as milia. They are often seen around the cheeks, nose, and on the forehead. ‚
Milia are harmless and tend to heal on their own. They are common in young babies, but can happen at any age. ‚
What are the causes?
- Dead skin cells trapped at the surface of the skin
- Poor hygiene
What can make this more likely to happen?
- Being a newborn
- Use of heavy make-up and creams
- Skin damage caused by sun exposure
- Blistering skin conditions like poison ivy
What are the main signs?
- Hard, white bump on the skin
- Tiny white bumps on the skin around the nose, chin, cheeks, or forehead
How does the doctor diagnose this health problem?
The doctor may easily identify milia by doing an exam of your skin. There is no specific test needed to diagnose milia. ‚
How does the doctor treat this health problem?
There is no specific treatment for milia, especially for newborn babies. They often clear up on their own within a few weeks. ‚
Adults may ask the doctor for help to remove milia. The doctor may use special tools to remove the dead skin trapped under skin. Your doctor may also suggest other treatments. These are used if your milia are all over your face and last a long time. ‚
- Cryotherapy ¢ ˆ ’ Freezes skin lesions to help change the look of your skin
- Laser treatment ¢ ˆ ’ Uses laser to remove the skin that covers milia
- Dermabrasion ¢ ˆ ’ Removes the topmost layer of the affected skin
- Chemical peeling ¢ ˆ ’ Uses a chemical to burn off the skin lesion on your face
What lifestyle changes are needed?
- Do not remove milia on your own.
- Do not pinch, squeeze, or rub the milia.
- Wash your face every day. Use warm water and mild moisturizing soap. Gently pat the skin dry.
- Avoid any type of creams, oils, and lotions. Ask your skin doctor what is best for you.
- Avoid heavy make-up and creams.
- Talk with your doctor about the best kind of products for your skin. The doctor may suggest using a facial scrub or peeling product.
What drugs may be needed?
There are no drugs needed to treat milia. Your doctor may give you special creams to help remove milia. ‚
What can be done to prevent this health problem?
- Avoid oily skin products.
- Avoid sun exposure to prevent skin damage.
- Use light make-up. Thick make-up can trap dead skin cells under your skin.
- Always remove make-up at the end of the day. Use an oil-free make-up remover.
Where can I learn more?
American Academy of Pediatrics ‚
http://www.healthychildren.org/English/tips-tools/Symptom-Checker/Pages/Newborn-Rashes-and-Birthmarks.aspx ‚
KidsHealth ‚
http://kidshealth.org/parent/pregnancy_center/childbirth/newborn_variations.html# ‚
Consumer Information Use and Disclaimer
This information is not specific medical advice and does not replace information you receive from your health care provider. This is only a brief summary of general information. It does NOT include all information about conditions, illnesses, injuries, tests, procedures, treatments, therapies, discharge instructions or life-style choices that may apply to you. You must talk with your health care provider for complete information about your health and treatment options. This information should not be used to decide whether or not to accept your health care providers advice, instructions or recommendations. Only your health care provider has the knowledge and training to provide advice that is right for you. ‚
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Copyright ‚ © 2015 Clinical Drug Information, LLC and Lexi-Comp, Inc. ‚