What should you know about milia removal?

Milia are firm, pale bumps formed when keratin becomes trapped beneath the skin. They are different from acne whiteheads, so squeezing or scrubbing may not release them. A clinician first checks that the bump is milia, then may use a sterile opening and careful extraction. Another option can be curettage and cautery, depending on the site and the clinician's assessment. The area may look mildly red or tender afterwards, and the skin needs time to settle.

Cleanse with a mild product, avoid picking, and use non-comedogenic moisturiser and sunscreen. Do not pierce a bump with a needle at home, especially near the eyes. If milia are persistent or bothersome, arrange a dermatology consultation. A clinician may discuss topical retinoids for selected cases, but these products can irritate skin and are not suitable for everyone.

Seek clinical advice if a bump changes quickly, bleeds, becomes painful, develops discharge, or is not clearly a typical firm white cyst. Prompt assessment is also sensible when several bumps appear after skin injury or a new product. Changes around the eye deserve extra care because self-treatment can injure delicate skin.

Ask whether the bump is definitely milia, which removal method suits its location, how to care for the area afterwards, and whether an underlying skin irritation or product could be contributing to new lesions.