What Causes Milia Spots & How To Treat It Effectively

Monderma

Oliver Belcher

09 Jun 2025

Milia form from trapped keratin
Exfoliation supports normal turnover
Some forms resolve on their own
Professionals remove persistent cases
Personalised night creams with Monderma

Milia often appear as small white bumps around eyes or on cheeks, and although harmless, they can cause cosmetic concern. Understanding why they form helps support clearer, healthier skin.

In this article we outline what causes milia, explore treatment options, and highlight gentle approaches that support long term skin comfort and clarity.

What Are Milia?

Milia are tiny cysts filled with keratin, forming when dead skin cells become trapped beneath the surface. These small white bumps differ from acne because they are not caused by bacteria or excess oil [1,3].

They arise when the skin does not exfoliate normally, allowing keratin to accumulate. Milia are usually 1 to 2 mm and typically painless [2,3].

Common Areas For Milia

Milia most often appear on the face, especially around the eyes, cheeks, and nose. They may also form on the scalp or upper trunk. In newborn babies, milk spots are very common and affect about half of infants [1,4].

Causes Of Milia

Cause	Description
Skin Damage	Sun exposure or blistering injuries may disrupt exfoliation, trapping dead cells and forming milia [5].
Heavy Skincare Products	Thick or oil based products may hinder natural exfoliation and promote milia [2].
Skin Conditions	Blistering disorders can lead to secondary milia during healing [3].
Ageing	Slower turnover with age increases the risk of keratin buildup [1].
Genetic Factors	Rare conditions may be associated with juvenile milia [3].

Table 1: Common causes of milia

Summary: Milia develop when keratin becomes trapped beneath the skin due to disrupted exfoliation, ageing, skin damage, or product related factors.

Types Of Milia

Neonatal milia are common in newborn babies and usually resolve quickly [4]. Primary milia appear spontaneously in adults or children and may persist [2]. Secondary milia follow trauma such as burns or procedures, or arise from topical medicines [5].

Milia en plaque involves grouped milia on raised patches and is rare [3]. Multiple eruptive milia involve sudden crops of bumps on the face or trunk [1].

Milia Treatment Options

Over time, many milia resolve naturally, especially in newborns. Others may benefit from focused treatment.

Over The Counter Products

Exfoliating products containing AHAs or BHAs encourage normal turnover and may help prevent milia [2]. Topical retinoids like adapalene may support exfoliation, although evidence specific to milia is limited [3].

Professional Treatments

Treatment	Description
Manual Extraction	A dermatologist creates a tiny opening and removes the keratin safely. This should only be done professionally [1].
Chemical Peels	Acids exfoliate the surface and may reduce recurrence [3].
Laser Treatment	Laser therapy removes milia with low scarring risk, helpful for persistent bumps [5].

Table 2: Professional options for milia removal

Home Remedies

Remedy	Description	Caution
Regular Exfoliation	Gentle exfoliation may prevent buildup.	Avoid over exfoliation.
Steam Treatment	May soften the skin to aid removal.	Limited evidence, avoid excess heat.
Honey Mask	Natural exfoliating properties may support skin health.	Allergy risk.

Table 3: Home approaches for milia support

Attempting to squeeze or pop milia can cause scarring or infection and is not advised [2].

Preventing Milia

Prevention Tip	Description
Use Gentle Skincare Products	Choose oil free, non comedogenic products to avoid obstruction [2].
Protect Skin From Sun Damage	Daily broad spectrum sunscreen helps reduce sun related milia formation [5].
Maintain A Regular Skincare Routine	Consistent cleansing and moisturising support turnover [3].
Avoid Heavy Makeup	Lightweight products help prevent surface obstruction [1].

Table 4: Prevention strategies

Summary: Gentle products, sun protection, and consistent care help minimise milia formation.

When To Visit A Dermatologist

Consult a dermatologist if milia persist, cause discomfort, or affect confidence. Persistent milia may indicate underlying skin conditions that benefit from assessment and tailored care [3].

Conclusion

Milia are common and often improve with steady habits that support smooth, comfortable skin. Gentle exfoliation, sun protection, and professional removal when needed can help reduce their persistence over time.

If you would like personalised skincare created around your own needs, you can explore a tailored formula through Monderma.

Content is for informational purposes only. Monderma treatments are prescribed following consultation. Results and timeframes can vary. Use as directed by your prescriber.

References

Gallardo Avila PP, Mendez MD. Milia. In StatPearls. StatPearls Publishing. 2023.
Berk DR, Bayliss SJ. Milia: a review and classification. Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology. 2008.
Callen JP. Milia. In UpToDate. UpToDate. 2022.
Patient.info. Milia: Causes and Treatment. Patient.info. 2023.
Patsatsi A, Uy CDC, Murrell DF. Multiple milia formation in blistering diseases. International Journal of Womens Dermatology. 2020.