Dermatologists usually diagnose milia by sight. Skin lesion biopsies are rarely needed. If you see similar white bumps, consult a doctor to confirm and discuss treatment (if desired).
Infant milia usually go away on their own, so no treatment is needed. In older children and adults, it also often clears up by itself, but some may choose treatment if it’s uncomfortable. Common treatments include:
- Cryotherapy: Liquid nitrogen freezes the milia; the most common removal method.
- Deroofing: A sterile needle extracts the cyst contents.
- Topical retinoids: Vitamin A – containing creams to exfoliate the skin.
- Chemical peels: Peel off the top skin layer, revealing new skin.
- Laser ablation: A small laser targets the affected areas to remove cysts.
- Diathermy: Extreme heat destroys the cysts.
- Destruction of curettage: Surgically scrape and cauterize the cysts.
Milia has even been treated with a paper clip, but this should be done by a doctor, not at home.
Though milia aren’t harmful, they can be unsightly. Since they’re related to skin – surface problems, a lifestyle change focused on healthy, clean skin can help prevent them.
Milia is often linked to skin damage, so protect your skin from the sun, whether at the beach, a baseball game, or on your porch.
Heavy skincare products (creams, ointments, makeup, lip balm) and cleansers with microbeads can increase the risk of milia. Switch to safe, light products to keep your skin clear.
While it’s hard to exfoliate a baby’s skin, you should keep your pores clean to prevent keratin from getting trapped and forming milia.
In the end, milia are harmless. Besides being unsightly, they won’t harm you and will disappear over time. If you’re worried and want treatment, talk to your doctor. Otherwise, let the bumps be, and they’ll go away soon.