What Are Milia and Why Do They Form?

 Milia are tiny, hard, white or yellowish bumps that appear on the skin. They are often found on the face, especially around the eyes, cheeks, and nose, though they can develop anywhere. Milia form when keratin, a protein naturally present in the skin, becomes trapped beneath the outer layer rather than exfoliating naturally. Unlike pimples or acne, milia are not caused by bacteria, do not involve inflammation, and are typically painless. However, they can be cosmetically bothersome, leading many individuals to seek professional treatments. In Dubai, many people prefer Milia Treatments in Dubai to address these persistent bumps safely and effectively.

Common Causes of Milia Formation

Milia can develop due to various factors, including:

• Skin Damage or Trauma: Burns, blisters, or injuries can interfere with the skin’s natural exfoliation, leading to trapped keratin.

• Blocked Pores: Dead skin cells that are not properly shed can accumulate under the skin, causing milia.

• Heavy Skincare Products: Using thick creams, oil-based products, or occlusive ointments can increase the risk of milia formation, particularly in sensitive areas.

• Genetic Factors: Some people may be more prone to milia due to hereditary skin characteristics.

• Aging: As skin ages, natural exfoliation slows, increasing the likelihood of milia in adults.

Milia in Infants vs. Adults

Milia are very common in newborns, often referred to as “baby acne,” and usually resolve on their own within a few weeks. In adults, however, milia may persist for months or even years without proper treatment. Persistent adult milia often require professional intervention to ensure complete removal without scarring.

Why Milia Are Hard to Remove at Home

Many people try home remedies like scrubs, chemical exfoliants, or steaming, hoping to remove milia naturally. While gentle exfoliation may prevent future formation, it rarely eliminates established milia. Because milia consist of a dense keratin core, professional extraction is often the only reliable way to remove them permanently without damaging the surrounding skin.

Risk Factors for Developing Milia

Certain conditions or habits can increase the likelihood of milia forming:

• Overexposure to sunlight can thicken the skin, trapping keratin.

• Frequent use of heavy makeup or skin products that clog pores.

• Skin trauma, including cosmetic procedures like laser resurfacing or chemical peels, when recovery is improper.

• Chronic skin conditions such as blistering disorders or eczema.

How Milia Treatments Work

Professional milia treatments focus on removing the trapped keratin safely. Techniques may include sterile manual extraction, chemical peels, or laser therapy. By targeting the core of the milia without harming surrounding tissue, these treatments prevent scarring and restore smoother skin.

Benefits of Treating Milia

Treating milia is more than just cosmetic; it also improves skin texture and allows better absorption of skincare products. Removing milia can make the skin appear clearer, brighter, and healthier.

Preventing Milia Formation

After treatment, prevention is key to maintaining smooth skin:

• Use gentle cleansers and avoid harsh scrubbing.

• Incorporate mild chemical exfoliants like AHAs or BHAs to promote skin turnover.

• Avoid heavy, occlusive creams, especially around sensitive areas like the eyes.

• Always apply sunscreen to protect the skin from sun damage that can worsen skin texture and contribute to milia formation.

When to Seek Professional Help

If milia are persistent, growing, or causing cosmetic concerns, seeking professional care is recommended. A trained skincare professional can safely remove the bumps using precise techniques, ensuring minimal risk of recurrence and preserving the natural health of the skin.

Conclusion

Milia may seem minor, but their persistent appearance can affect confidence and overall skin appearance. Understanding why they form and addressing them with professional interventions, such as Milia Treatments in Dubai, ensures both safety and long-lasting results. With proper care and preventative measures, smooth, clear skin is achievable, free from these stubborn bumps.