Marchbein also adds that if you're someone who is prone to milia, you should try using a combination of oil-free, non-comedogenic products (looking at you, CeraVe and Cetaphil), along with a cream containing a retinoid. This one by Paula's Choice absorbs quickly and also goes to work on fine lines and dark spots.
Under eye night serums can also help to prevent milia. As we age, our body naturally loses some of its ability to exfoliate away dry skin cells.” Consultant dermatologist Catherine Borysiewicz suggests avoiding extra rich moisturisers and using gentle exfoliation products such as lactic acid.
"The biggest side effect of using the wrong moisturizer is developing milia, little hard white bumps on the face in random areas," said Dr. Forney. "This is very common if [you're] using a body moisturizer on the face but can also happen with moisturizers which are too heavy."
Some moisturizers can be too heavy, which will clog the pores and cause milia. One of the moisturizers that is notorious for causing milia is Clinique Dramatically Different. If you have milia and are using this, you should stop. If you're prone to getting milia, you should get retin-a or retinol cream.
An over-the-counter exfoliating cosmetic with salicylic acid, alpha hydroxy acid, or a retinoid can help remove the dead skin cells. Baby skin is too delicate for lotions, oils, or other cosmetics. Wash your baby's face with warm water and baby soap daily and then pat the skin dry. Wait for the milia to clear.
The most common procedure for milia removal is de-roofing. Dermatologists use a sterile needle to remove the tiny flap of skin trapping the keratin flake inside the pore. They then squeeze or prick out the flake. A less-common practice is curettage, which is a form of electrosurgery.
When it comes to preventing milia, it's all about exfoliation, exfoliation, exfoliation! You want to maximise your cellular turnover, so things like chemical peels, topical retinoids, alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs), beta hydroxy acids (BHAs), charcoal, mud masks, micro abrasion and vitamin C are amongst the recommended.
As far as occlusive ingredients go, Dr. Patel explains that petrolatum and thick moisturizers like coconut oil can clog the skin more "and make the process worse in those that are prone to milia."
Check for ingredients that are named: liquid paraffin, liquid petroleum, paraffin oil, paraffinum liquidum, petrolatum liquid, petroleum oil. These are all types of mineral oil that may be causing your milia to grow. Lanolin is a type of oil extracted from wool-furred animals such as sheep.
NIVEA Creme and NIVEA Soft are suitable for every skin type for care of the face, body and hands.
Products that can cause milia can be make-up removers not labeled oil-free or non-comedogenic, hair spray, hair mousse and gel, heavy sunscreens and some moisturizers.
Aloe vera contains anti inflammatory properties that can help in treating milia and soothing and cooling that area. To use it for this purpose, you should remove the leafy layer and use the inner gel.
Imbued with astringent and anti-inflammatory properties, lemon juice reduces the size of skin pores and helps in drying the milia spots.
Mix 4 tablespoons of honey with a half tablespoon of cinnamon powder and apply it on your face. Leave it on for about 15 minutes and then wash off. The antibacterial properties in honey will assist in reducing milk spots on skin. Also browse through: Healing benefits of honey for skin health and beauty.
This vitamin E rich oil is non-comedogenic, antibacterial, and is also an antioxidant. With a comedogenic rating of 2, this non-comedogenic oil is often seen as the holy grail of acne-friendly facial oils. Jojoba oil is extremely similar to the sebum our face creates.
Improves complexion and skin tone. Due to its emollient properties , almond oil has the potential to improve both complexion and skin tone. Treats dry skin. Almond oil has been used for centuries to treat dry skin conditions, including eczema and psoriasis.
Although there isn't a lot of scientific basis behind it, there is no harm in giving vitamin A and omega supplements a go and seeing if it prevents milia from forming for you. Vitamin A and omegas are fabulous for skin health as they help with the skin's cell turnover and hydration.
Glycolic acid. Here's why: Glycolic acid is one of the most effective and efficient ingredients to use for exfoliating skin. Its tiny Alpha Hydroxy Acid molecules penetrate and dissolve the outermost (and usually most damaged) layer of skin cells.
Garshick and Viscusi recommend Differin's retinoid. "This OTC retinoid works to help reduce acne breakouts and can also help in the prevention and treatment of milia," Garshick says.
Keep in mind that everyone has naturally different skin types (oily, dry, or a combination), so if you overdry your skin or make it too oily, you could increase the chances of milia. You should ask a dermatologist to recommend products for your skin type.
Causes of Milia
Milia are small cysts that form when dead skin cells get trapped under your skin. They sometimes happen spontaneously (for no known reason), or they can happen in response to skin damage. These milia typically clear up on their own in a few months or less.