Milia Removal

Milia Removal

Milia are small, white bumps which are formed when the skin flakes or when a protein called Keratin gets trapped under the skin. They are commonly seen on the face around the eyelids and cheeks. However, they can occur on any part of the body. Milia can be easily confused with acne or pimples.

Types of Milia

Milia is of many types, the prominent ones are as follows-

1. Primary Milia: Primary milia are more commonly seen in infants, however, they can occur in adults as well. It most commonly appears on body parts including eyelids, genitals, cheeks and forehead. Usually, primary milia disappear without any treatment, although it may last from several weeks to months.
2. Secondary Milia: Secondary milia usually occurs on the skin after an injury, burn or surgery. It can also appear over any scarred tissue. Secondary milia may appear on any part of the body.
3. Multiple eruptive milia: It is a very rare kind of milia. Multiple eruptive milia involve the formation of numerous bumps in a common area. It can last over the course of a few weeks to months. It usually appears on the trunk, upper arms and face.

How are milia formed?

Keratin is a protein secreted from the tissues of the skin. When this protein gets trapped under the layers of the skin, it gives rise to Milia.

Treatment

However bad the disease may sound, it’s just a cosmetic concern and doesn’t affect your skin in any way. Generally, milia cannot be treated using medicines. However, in some individuals, the use of retinoid containing creams can have an effect on milia. Milia may disappear on its own in several weeks or months. If it doesn’t vanish in a few months, it can easily be treated by incision with a cutting-edge needle under local anaesthetic cream. Few of the other treatment options can be removed through electrodesiccation by radio frequency, laser or cryotherapy. It is also important to know that there are no treatments required to cure milia in case of an infant.