Medicines for Milia

What it is

Milia are small, firm, white or yellowish bumps that appear on the skin, usually only a millimetre or two across. They form when keratin (a protein in skin) becomes trapped just beneath the surface. They are very common and completely harmless. In newborn babies they appear as "milk spots", often on the nose and cheeks, and clear by themselves within a few weeks. In older children and adults they can appear on the face — particularly around the eyes, cheeks and nose — and may follow skin damage (such as burns or blistering), long-term sun damage, or the use of heavy skin creams. They cause no symptoms and are purely a cosmetic matter. They are recognised by their typical small, white, dome-shaped appearance.

How it is treated

Milia need no treatment and are harmless, so reassurance is usually all that is required, particularly in babies, where they disappear on their own within a few weeks without any intervention. In adults, milia may persist for longer but are still harmless. It is best not to try to squeeze or pick them, as this can cause irritation, infection or scarring and usually does not remove them effectively. If milia in adults are persistent and bothersome cosmetically, they can be removed by a professional (for example a dermatologist), typically by making a tiny opening and expressing the contents. Gentle skincare, avoiding heavy greasy products where these seem to contribute, and sun protection may help reduce them for some people. The key message is that they are harmless and often resolve without treatment.