Guide to Milia Seeds: Causes, Treatments, and Removal Solution

Milia: Understanding the Causes, Diagnosis, Differential Diagnosis and Treatment Options

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What is Milia?

Also commonly known as milia seeds, milia are small, white or yellowish bumps that commonly appear on the face. These tiny cysts form when dead skin cells become trapped in small pockets near the surface of the skin. While milia are harmless and generally painless, they can be a source of cosmetic concern.

Causes of Milia

Excessive Dead Skin Cells: The primary cause of milia is the accumulation of dead skin cells on the skin's surface, preventing them from naturally sloughing off.
Injury or Damage to the Skin: Trauma to the skin, such as burns or sun damage, can lead to milia formation.
Use of Heavy Skincare Products: Certain skincare products, especially those containing heavy or comedogenic ingredients, may contribute to the development of milia.

Types of Milia

Neonatal Milia

Affects infants and causes white cysts to form on a baby’s skin, most often on or around their nose. This type of milia is present at birth.

Primary Milia

Small cysts common on your eyelids, forehead, cheeks, or genitals, affecting both children and adults.

Secondary Milia (Traumatic Milia)

Small cysts that occur after damage to your skin, either from burns, rashes, blisters, or sunlight exposure.

Juvenile Milia

Cysts that are a symptom of an inherited condition, present at birth or show up later in life.

Milia en Plaque

A rare type that often affects women between 40 and 60, with milia clumping together on a raised patch of skin.

Differential Diagnosis

Milia can sometimes be confused with other skin conditions. The differential diagnosis may include:

Symptoms

Symptoms of milia include white to yellow bumps (cysts) on your skin, usually appearing in groups or clusters. These bumps are asymptomatic and don’t cause pain or discomfort. Depending on the type of milia, some can be itchy or form on a raised patch of skin.

Treatment Options

Topical Retinoids

Prescription retinoid creams containing ingredients like tretinoin can help accelerate skin cell turnover, reducing the appearance of milia.

Microdermabrasion

This non-invasive procedure exfoliates the top layer of skin, promoting the removal of dead cells and assisting in milia reduction. A popular treatment you can consider is the Hydrafacial, which combines dermabrasion with acids for exfoliation.

Professional Extraction

A qualified aesthetic professional can manually extract milia using sterile instruments, ensuring minimal scarring and discomfort.

Cautery

In some cases, cautery which is also radiosurgery may be used to burn away and remove milia.

Living With Milia:

If milia persist or worsen, consulting a healthcare provider is advised. Questions regarding exfoliation, the cause of milia, and appropriate actions for non-resolution can be discussed.

At VIDASKIN, we understand the importance of achieving and maintaining healthy, radiant skin. Our experienced team of medical aesthetic professionals is here to provide personalized assessments and tailored treatments to address your unique skincare needs. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and embark on your journey to flawless skin.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is Milia?

Milia are small, white or yellowish bumps that appear on the skin, typically around the eyes, nose, and cheeks. They are formed when keratin, a protein in the skin, becomes trapped under the surface. Cautery can be used to remove milia seeds.

What Causes Milia?

Milia can be caused by several factors, including skin damage, sun exposure, heavy skincare products, or clogged pores. They can also occur in newborns and adults alike.

How Can I Prevent Milia?

To prevent milia, it’s essential to maintain a proper skincare routine, including gentle exfoliation and the use of non-comedogenic products. Avoid heavy creams and harsh skincare treatments that can clog pores.

How Do You Treat Milia?

There are several treatments for milia, including professional extraction, chemical peels, and cautery. These treatments are designed to safely remove milia without causing damage to the surrounding skin.

Will Milia Go Away On It's Own?

Milia may eventually go away on their own, but this can take weeks or even months. In some cases, they persist and require professional treatment.

Is It Safe To Remove Milia At Home?

It is not recommended to remove milia at home, as improper techniques can lead to scarring, infection, or skin damage. Professional removal by a trained specialist ensures that milia are safely extracted without harming the skin.

Milia: Understanding the Causes, Diagnosis, Differential Diagnosis and Treatment Options

What is Milia?

Causes of Milia

Types of Milia

Neonatal Milia

Primary Milia

Secondary Milia (Traumatic Milia)

Juvenile Milia

Milia en Plaque

Differential Diagnosis

Whiteheads (Closed Comedones)

Xanthelasma

Sebaceous Hyperplasia

Symptoms

Treatment Options

Topical Retinoids

Microdermabrasion

Professional Extraction

Cautery

Living With Milia:

Frequently Asked Questions

Have more questions?

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